Embracing Camouflage in a Neutral Wardrobe
If you’re someone who lives in neutrals — brown, white, grey, black — it’s safe to say your wardrobe might not be overflowing with prints. When we think of prints, we often imagine bright colours, florals, and animal motifs, which don’t typically align with the minimalist approach to dressing.
Breton stripes might be as experimental as you get, and I completely understand. The beauty of sticking to neutral pieces is that they complement each other effortlessly, making getting dressed a breeze. But what if I told you there’s a print that can easily fit into your closet alongside your favourite grey baby tee?
I had an “aha” moment at Westfield when I stumbled upon the windows of Glassons, one of my go-to shops for affordable yet stylish basics. Among the tees and tanks were some standout pieces featuring camo print in muted khaki tones. The styles looked so fresh that I immediately wanted to try on the long-sleeve top.
Sold. Image: Supplied.
Fashion is currently experiencing a “utility” moment, with styles like khaki anoraks and cargo pants making a comeback. It makes sense that camouflage is emerging as a trending accent. Brands like Vrg Grl have introduced semi-sheer pieces with an abstract camo motif, while local labels such as By Frankie, Kinga Csilla, BY.DYLN, Ksubi, and Ena Pelly have incorporated it into their recent collections, each adding their unique twist.
Of course, camouflage isn’t a new phenomenon. While the motif has military origins, it reached its peak in the 90s as part of the streetwear movement. Initially popularised by hip-hop culture, camo became a huge hit when girl groups like The Spice Girls and Destiny’s Child incorporated it into their outfits. This led to an explosion of camo cargo pants and trucker caps.
Oh, the memories.
But if you’re thinking that camo is too much of a throwback (I’m looking at you, Millennials), allow me to persuade you: the new camo is less gimmicky and more cool-girl. Here are some styling inspo from my saved folder.
Image: Instagram @georgeyhenshall.
Image: Instagram @bhavs_edits_.
Image: Instagram @aliciafranzen.
Image: Instagram @meganhem_.
Image: Instagram @theamyclark.
Image: Instagram @studioverite_.
Image: Instagram @stef.bergmann.
Shop the Camo Print Trend
Glassons Cotton Long Sleeve Top, $25.
Image: Glassons.
Ena Pelly Tessa Baby Tee, $130.
Image: THE ICONIC.
Vrg Grl Francesca Sheer Maxi Dress, $169.
Image: VRG GRL.
By Frankie Dark Camo Hearts Denim Racer Pants, $110.
Image: Sage.
BY.DYLN Kelsi Jacket, $180.
Image: THE ICONIC.
Liido Gigi L/S Camo, $130.
Image: Stylerunner.
SSAINT Camo Dad Cap, $69.
Image: SSAINT.
NAKEDVICE The Christy Camo Bag, $129.95.
Image: Naked Vice.
For more helpful style advice and shopping recommendations, subscribe to the weekly Nothing to Wear Substack, listen to the Nothing to Wear podcast, or watch Nothing to Wear on YouTube. At [website], we independently curate and write about products we rave about in our group chats and think you should know about too. If you purchase a product we have recommended, we may earn a small commission.
Feature image: Instagram @rebeccaferrazwyatt.
