A new uniform for the wet season
MANILA, Philippines - The unpredictability of today’s climate leaves us wondering if what we choose to wear for the day will suddenly be inappropriate or ill-equipped for changes in weather — rain, most especially. I can’t recount how many times I’ve been in shorts, shoes that aren’t in the slightest way waterproof, and lacking a jacket to keep myself dry when all of a sudden, like a bad punch line, it starts raining. In the many instances in which I’ve found myself killing time in a mall, restaurant, or at home waiting for the rain to stop, I also wonder if I should just don a uniform of sorts for these gray days that’ll take all the guesswork out of dressing for the day.
Rain gear with the classic and utilitarian approach of a uniform sounds fitting and an effective way to brave the elements without looking like you’re off to a rainy day track meet (though sportswear has been the current trend of which to dabble with — more about that later). Classic lines and pieces donned by certain servicemen like those in the army and navy have roots ingrained in history — 17th century anyone? But rather than looking like you’re really off to fight in the trenches, choosing pieces such as coats and jackets that have influences of a military nature with telltale details, such as, epaulets, patches, big sturdy buttons, color set, and made in such a way that they look like they’ll last you a lifetime is a very doable strategy for those who want good, presentable rainy day gear without the rained-out demeanor.
Parkas, trench coats and the like so often seen worn by mods in movies and on television while riding Vespas or in WW II movies have found steady use as rain gear recently despite their original intended use for warmth in extreme climates and protection from the elements of rain, sleet, and snow. Today, they come in different choices of fabric and reworked cuts to suit better tropical and sartorial use. These once-military and naval coats combined with more modern and conventional shirts and even sometimes louder and contrasting colors add a stylish dimension to the already innate timelessness and utility to complete any guy’s rainy day ensemble.
The simple nature of donning a uniform type of clothing should find plenty of appeal among guys who want to wear something that just works and that’ll keep them dry during the rainy season whilst maintaining a ruggedness and timeless aesthetic about them: pieces that may look more suited for the trenches or duty, but oddly enough work well enough for high street style. Go tonal on color choices, color block, or mix up trends such as sportswear if you want to lessen the “uniform” aspect of your outfit. Try out these suggestions for the rainy days ahead. It’s a good way to up your style ante — just try to make sure that you don’t overdo it with military regalia.
Source: Fashionising.com
