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In-Depth Analysis | Research/ Review Paper

THE MILITARY INFLUENCE ON FASHION

Published: April 18, 2023
Author: TEXTILE VALUE CHAIN

Introduction

  • Military designs and styles have a big influence on the fashion world. Fashion trends influenced by military styles are the ones that have been there for years.
  • Wearing military-style clothing or apparel is believed by many is a way to make their fashion statement.
  • We cannot deny the fact that the military wears have greatly influenced our fashion choices.
  • Even fashion designers around the world have read the military element in the fashion industry and have used its influence even in our everyday wear.[1]

Plate No 1- Military Fashion

What exactly is military fashion?

  • Military-style clothing and apparels are more than just a trend. Over the years it has moved on to become a statement, especially for men of all ages.
  • The modern-day military-style fashion is a mix or we can say the fusion of functional uniform with present-day utility and fashion clothing.
  • From combat boots to camouflaged jackets, everything that a soldier wears on the battleground serves some purpose.
  • The camouflaged print used almost by all militaries around the world has turned to be a fashionable art that adds depth to any outfit and toughens the external look of the wearer.
  • It is one pattern and style that no one can neither hate nor love.[1]

Plate No 2- Combat pants, Muted hat, Camouflaged print clothing

Fashion Driven by the Military

  • Throughout the years, fashion and style are greatly influenced by the military.
  • That’s why we can see many elements that were first introduced and designed for military use on every street corner today.

Plate No 3- Modern Military Fashion

  • The only reason as to why olive-green is such a heavily used hue in the army, it’s really simple! This shade is just another camouflage tactic; olive-green helps to hide soldiers from the enemy’s view and allow them to blend into their surrounding terrain naturally.
  • “The shade is flattering on all skin tones and is super versatile, so there’s no reason not to try the trend,” The options we have with this color is truly endless.

Plate No 4- Olive green camouflage military garment

  • Cute rompers, pant suits, long duster coats, cargo pants, button-up tops, and leggings are just a few items you may want to explore.
  • Olive-green can give off a free-spirited earthy style at an outdoor music festival or a sense of casual, alternative work fashion.[2]

Plate No 5- Cute rompers, pant suits, long duster coats, cargo pants, button-up tops, and leggings

Aviators

  • The aviator sunglasses or Ray-Ban aviators had their roots in the 1930s and 1940s when this model was originally produced for airline pilots to protect them from sun glare while flying.
  • The most famous aviator sunglasses were produced by Bausch & Lomb, which later became Ray-Ban.
  • Their aviator shades are still a favorite among celebrities and other people who want to add some personality to their everyday look.[2]

Plate No 6- Aviators

Tank Tops

  • Tank tops originally emerged as inner tank-suit jackets that were worn under overalls or boiler suits (they were common among coal miners).
  • These suits provided good protection from sparks and other conditions that might damage their clothes while working underground.

Plate No 7- Army tank top and Boiler suit for men

Bomber Jackets

The original bomber jacket emerged in 1931 when American airmen commissioned a special type of coat that would protect them from harsh weather conditions while flying over open terrain at high altitudes. The first bomber jackets were made with several layers, including a quilted lining that provided warmth even when it got wet (which happened quite often during rain showers).

Plate No 8- Bomber Jackets

  • Ribbed collars
  • Zippered pockets
  • Elastic sleeve cuffs
  • Top-stitched seams
  • High-grade material like wool or leather
  • Bomber-style zipper pulls
  • Knit cuffs with inset buttons or tabs[2]

 Boots

Military boots were developed in the mid-19th century when the US Army started searching for a new design that would be more suitable for soldiers who had to walk long distances and stay on their feet for extended periods of time.

Plate No 9- Military boots, Hobnail soles and low heels and Combat boots

 New Developments

Indian Army gets exclusive rights of new combat uniform

  • The Indian Army received exclusive Intellectual Property Rights (IPR) of the new Camouflage Pattern and Design of Improved Combat Uniform. The registration process to establish ownership of Indian Army was completed by the Controller General of Patents, Designs and Trademark.
  • The new Digital Pattern Combat Uniform for Indian Army soldiers was unveiled on 15 January 2022 (Army Day). The improved uniform has a contemporary look and functional design. The fabric has been made lighter, stronger, breathable, quick drying and easier to maintain. The uniform’s uniqueness is evident with the inclusion of gender specific modifications for women’s combat uniform.
  • On Army Day, the Indian Army showcased its new combat uniform for the first time in public, as commandos from the Parachute Regiment marched at the parade ground in Delhi Cantt, dressed in the new outfit.[4]

Plate No 10- Old Uniform Vs New Combat Uniform

Conclusion:-

  • Military clothing items, initially designed for soldiers, have been commonly used in everyday life.
  • Army garments have also been an excellent reference to use for other purposes in the fashion industry.
  • The Indian Army introduced the new battle uniform for the personnel on Army Day, January 15.
  • The pattern is computerized, but it keeps the same olive greens and earthen motifs.
  • It was created with a variety of operational situations in mind, such as high-altitude environments, rainforests, and deserts, in mind.

References:-

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