1940 Chino Trousers – an everyday classic with military roots

Chinos have been used since the mid 19th century. The British military started to dye their white summer uniforms with coffee and curry in their Indian colonies. This was done for better camouflaging purpose. A robust cotton twill was used as a base fabric.

The sturdy construction and good breathability made these new uniform perfect for summer wear. It did not take long until other armies all over the world adopted the new uniforms. In 1898 the U.S. military brought the chinos back home from the Spanish-American war.

In the Philippines and it stayed until today. But it was not after WW2 when the homecoming G.I.s used the casual looking trousers on a daily basis. And the trousers started to become a piece of everyday culture. From the dock yards to the Ivy League.

Service Chinos were originally meant to be worn in the field as a part of the uniform, as well as a formal attire. Therefore the fit was roomy and comfortable for a full range of movement. When washed and ironed, it looked sharp and suited. For the fabric we used an authentic cavalry twill.

The following features characterize our 1940 Service Chino: