How Khaki Got Its Cool

We take a look at the easy wardrobe refresher.

In 1971, just days after his 30th birthday John Lennon and his wife Yoko Ono appeared on The Dick Cavett Show. He wore a khaki U.S army shirt that he’d been given by a stranger he met at an airport in Germany. Later, that same button-up would feature on his album cover Live in New York – along with aviators and a beaded necklace. After that, the military green quickly rose to be a signature look for rebel style and the cool of khaki was born.

@johnlennonofficial

Given its refreshing feel between our many neutral essentials, it seems only natural that this green supplement is making the ultimate comeback for summer. Yes, doing colour can be unnerving and does require some (very brief) forethought but with a darker elemental tone like this it has the ability to fit right into your everyday rotation without being too loud. Consider it just a Pantone number away from neutral territory. Compatible with a wide range of whites, blacks, beiges and greys. Here’s the 101 on greening out without the headache.

1. The shirt jacket
Lennon wore it with beige cargos and black boots. You can too. Add a pair of round lenses (sun or sight) to really get into the groove. As far as colour rules go try stick to the lighter side of life with a green upper half. Stones and whites are the flavour of the season. A pair of cream chinos with high-top trainers like Converse is a very laid-back vibe. Smart it up by layering and leaving the shirt unbuttoned, premium tee underneath and denim jeans.

Shop the look

Thanks to Getty Images

2. The chinos
When it comes to summer and pants, less is always better. Khaki is a great way to show you have a taste for the finer details without trying too hard. A simple cotton or linen tee, darker chinos mixed with an old school plimsoll like Vans. Make sure your sock game is on point – light socks with even lighter sneaks is the dream. Then cuff ‘em (the pants that is). Kick, push, coast.

3. The shorts
This is probably the choice where amateur greenies opt out but follow on the same principles as the chino and there’s no way you can botch it. The fit here is key. A looser cargo style – just above the knee – is ideal for smart-casual. Just recently tonal ensembles are having their moment in the sun. Think a linen button up (long or short sleeved) with shorts. Khaki on khaki. If you’re willing to shake things up.

4. The parka
Just like that Mighty Boosh episode: look deep into the parka. For those light rainy summer days or ever-so-chill nights. This easy throw-over is pretty versatile and somehow can bring a look together that is a bit scatty. Say like a faded denim shirt, black trousers – belted – and ray-bans to amplify the cool factor. Or swap out the shirt jacket and apply the parka to all of the above instead.