The Divisive Camo-Print Trouser Trend Is Back—Here’s Why

As one of Who What Wear UK’s resident Gen Z fashion editors, especially one who prides themselves on seeking out the niche trends circling the zeitgeist, there’s nothing I enjoy more than a divisive trend. Be it Napoleon jackets or layered T-shirts, there are several trending items doing the rounds right now that could be deemed controversial, and they are certainly dividing the Who What Wear office. Is it chic or tacky? Are we in the midst of a revival, or simply another fleeting TikTok fad? When my editor antenna piqued at the camo-print trousers trend flooding my social media feed, the pack was already split. So, I figured that letting you decide just might be the best thing.

To me, camo-print trousers have always been a signifier of cool. With military origins, these loose trousers were designed for utility and are often finished with large, cargo-style pockets and comfortable adjustable waistlines. Yet it’s the unmistakable pattern, traditionally a mismatched array of green, that makes them distinguishable.

When I think of camo-print trousers, I’m instantly transported to peak Y2K. From All Saints to Destiny’s Child’s now-iconic “Survivor” music video to that scene in Spice World, many of the era’s best girl bands were often awash with camo. I’d even go as far as to say that the print’s connotations of power and strength helped push the pioneering “girl power” message of the late ‘90s and early ‘00s.

(Image credit: Getty Images)

With fashion being so cyclical, and a plethora of Y2K trends having already made an impact for the second time around in the past few years (think baby tees, capri leggings, babydoll dresses and even denim miniskirts), it was only a matter of time until camo-print trousers had the comeback they deserve. Last summer, we saw some stylish Bermuda shorts in this print, sometimes with flip-flops, other times with knee-high boots. I also noticed a few camo miniskirts paired with satin ballet flats on my feeds, too. But as we’re in the midst of winter, right now, it’s all about the trousers.

Camouflage pants were, of course, originally designed for the military to blend into their environments whilst in combat, but ironically, they’re now worn by London and New York’s best-dressed to stand out from the crowd. Nowadays, this trend is undeniably rooted in streetwear, and whilst it might not be one for the classicists amongst us, whether styled with boots and a sweeping black maxi coat or paired with a simple white vest or tee, I can’t help but be swayed every time I spot a pair.

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