Fashion and war: 5 everyday items that were originally invented for use at the front

Darya Skub News02.11.2023 10:43

Bomber and Aviator glasses were made especially for the military.

During the wars, many new types of clothing and accessories were invented. For one simple reason: there was a need for durable materials that could withstand extreme conditions. Thus, during the First World War, men began to wear uniforms that were easier to move in than traditional sets.

And during the Second World War, the trade embargo led to a shortage of materials used to make clothing. This meant that new textures had to be invented. For example, nylon. Today it is one of the most durable and wear-resistant fabrics, especially in cold weather. It is often used for jackets and sportswear. What other things were originally made and intended exclusively for the military, and now they are commonplace for civilians? Read in the article of OBOZ.UA.

1. Aviator glasses

In the 1920s, aviators needed something to protect their eyes from the scorching sun: a weightless and not too massive accessory. In 1940, American doctors, in collaboration with the Italian sunglasses brand Ray-Ban, produced special lenses that perfectly reflected the rays and did not spoil the pilots' vision. Today, Aviator glasses are one of the most popular fashion accessories because they fit almost everyone.

Fashion and war: 5 everyday items that were originally invented for use at the front

2. Bomber jacket

This is a shortened leather jacket once used by French and British aviators. Until 1917, bombers were made with wool lining on the inside to keep pilots warm.

During the Second World War, stylists added zippers and front pockets to these models, and in the mid-1950s, orange linings were sewn in. This was done to make it easier to find a pilot wearing a uniform whose color was almost indistinguishable from the colors of the ground. Pilots leaving the plane with a parachute would turn the jacket inside out and put it on with the bright side out.

Starting in the 1980s, bomber jackets became popular among civilians as well. Not only leather, but also denim.

3. Trench coat

Initially, long coats were used to cover soldiers up to the knees, protecting them from the weather and explosions near the trenches. In 1901, British designers came up with a modified version of the trench coat: a long coat with internal pockets for maps and knives. In practice, this item proved to be so good that armies all over the world began to copy it. Now trench coats are also made for civilians.

4. Beret

The first berets were made for the French army, especially for tankers who refused to wear wool hats on hot days. During World War II, these accessories were made in different colors depending on the army. For example, the Nazis used dark ones.

Today, berets are more associated with Parisian sophisticated style: girls wear them with coats and casual outfits.

5. Jumpsuit

The overalls were originally part of a flight suit worn by paratroopers during World War II. It provided protection from wind and cold. Due to its practical design, mechanics and workers began to use such clothing as a uniform. Today, overalls have a slightly modified look, adapted to trends, and are in great demand among women and men.