Overview
Military uniforms influence children’s fashion much more than many people realise. How many features of kids' clothing do you associate with the military? Camouflage patterning and epaulettes perhaps – but what about shiny buttons, pocket flaps, and square collars? They also come from military uniforms.
Some features have become so commonplace that we have forgotten their military origins. For example, most nautical styles are inspired by naval uniforms of the 1800s.
Other styles, such as cargo pants and camouflage, are recent recruits. Today, camouflage patterning can be found on everything from baby clothes to high-heeled shoes. We barely notice when children set off for school dressed for combat.