The birth of khaki dates back to 1850 when Lieutenant Harry Lumsden of the British Army wanted to dye the regimental serving uniforms from red to khaki or mud color or dust color to convey the troop’s patriotic love. “Khaki” refers to the dye color extracted from tea leaves and the British Army later adopted khaki for the regimental serving uniforms. During that time, the British Army was at the pinnacle of their fame for having colonized the Indian Peninsula and Africa, resulting in the “khaki” regimental serving uniform becoming widely popular amongst explorers and adventurers in those areas.
The popularity of khaki uniforms became widespread, particularly during the World War II period. The khaki uniforms worn by American soldiers were a new fashion signature and the color itself was recognized as a symbol of the “Hero”. Hollywood soon warmly welcomed the extraordinary khaki uniform during the post-war era, adored by leading celebrities and stylists such as Greta Garbo — Swedish actress; Humphrey Bogart —ranked no.1 screen actor in 100 years by the American Film Institute; Lauren Bacall — legendary actress from the Bogart era and Katherine Hepburn — Hollywood’s greatest actress.
Miss Atiporn Ekprasidthikul, Brand Manager of Dockers San Francisco, Diethelm Limited, distributor of leading menswear, provides some tips for choosing khaki pants to today’s gentlemen, “Khaki is a classic in itself and can perfectly complement every style. Ideal khaki pants are made from cotton with strong side seams and a well-fitting design from the hip and thigh down to the knee. Khaki is so versatile and can blend well with other pieces to reflect a subtle yet classic personality.
- For an Executive Look, pair the anti-bacteria and wrinkle-free Khaki pants with button-up shirt or Khaki suit, also available in dark brown, black and navy blue. Or add a trendsetter twist with Khaki cotton pants, a polo shirt or vest under a light color suit, i.e. light brown, greyish blue.
- For “Urban Outdoor” personality, adventurous city guys can go all the way with cotton Khaki pants with moisture control quality, paired with an earth tone shirt or checker board shirt and short or long cargo pants.
- Revamp the laid-back style for these coming summer holidays with a polo shirt or round neck T-shirt, short khaki pants or cargo pants.
- For Metro look on Sunday afternoon, match laid-back khaki pants with a bright, colourful T-shirt.
The Spring — Summer 2009 of Dockers San Francisco is now available at Dockers San Francisco store, 2nd Floor, Siam Discovery and Dockers San Francisco counters, Menswear Department at leading department stores.
For further information, please contact Verve:
Khun Prasit Kritsadaariyachon (Bob), Tel: 0-2204-8216, 081-586-2813
Pannarai Thaweechotkitcharoen (Ar), Tel: 0-2204-8212, 081-735-7799
Executive Look
Urban Outdoor
Laid-back Attitude for Summer Holidays