CurrentCut: The Khaki

Khaki, light brown with a yellowish tint began as the color of choice for the British colonial military in the dry and dusty areas of India and Pakistan. The Britsh, in turn, had initially borrowed it from the natives who preferred the cotton fabric in that color range as it help to camouflage them as they moved across the landscape.

From then on, khaki was the military look for much of the 20th century. Armies appreciated its durability or ease of use as well as its ability to blend in many of the terrains in which the new wars were being fought.

It didn't become popular in the U.S. until after WWII with the returning troops who integrated it into the every casual wear like--the now classic--navy blazer and chino combination.

Khaki now can be worn multiple ways. The neutral palette works well with multiple styles and color. As styles are also changing look for chinos with this in mind.