The connection between dress and war is not far to seek; your finest clothes are those you wear as soldiers.
Virginia Woolf
War has been a huge part of world history; it has been going on for centuries and in some way, shape or form all of our lives have been affected by it.
Apart from changing landscapes and dividing nations, conflict has created some momentous shifts in our culture - from modes of transport to clothing staples - Every instrument, vehicle and uniform was created to serve a practical purpose for the soldier; whether it be camouflage or a pair of thermal long johns designed to protect from the elements.
Some of the most popular garments that were originally designed for the military but have managed to find a way into most of our wardrobes include chinos (cotton drill pants), felt hats, roll-neck jumpers, moleskin (among other fabrics) shirt jackets, safari style field jackets and of course (balmoral) boots.
I've decided to list some of the most notable pieces below:
Drill chinos/trousers:
Drill is stout durable cotton with a strong bias (diagonal) in the weave. A versatile fabric, the most common use of drill in uniforms and casual wear is in the form of khaki.
Felt hats:
One of the oldest materials known to man, felt is a fabric made from a process of interlocking fibers of wool or fur by using friction, heat and moisture. This process accounts for a finished product that is extremely smooth, highly resilient and more impervious to water.
Rollneck aka Polo Neck:
The roll neck was made to keep the ultra icy winds out whilst sailors were on the high seas and it was also utilized by pilots with open cockpits. A very comfy garment, the rollneck moves with the body - it can also accentuate the jawline and elongate the figure.
Moleskin jackets:
Moleskin is a heavy cotton fabric, woven and then sheared to create a short, soft pile on one side. The word is also used to describe clothing made from this fabric, as well as adhesive pads stuck to the skin to prevent blisters.
Clothing made from moleskin is noted for its softness and durability and in some cases can also be windproof.
Boots:
Boots were designed to be worn as a form of functional footwear -designed to protect the foot and/or leg from water, snow, mud and hazards, or to provide additional ankle support for strenuous activities; for example during war time. Some boots are even insulted with fur for extra warmth during snow seasons.
Field Jacket from Herringbone
Military Shirt Jacket from Ebay
Roll Neck from River Island
Drill Chinos by Hermen Menswear
Fedora by Christy's London (City Hatters)
Balmoral Boots from Meermin