Military garb has had a major influence on everyday clothing. Melding the idea of form and function, military style can be adapted to suit a personal taste. Moving to discover the inspiration behind these garments, an exhibit similar to our local Planes of Fame Air Museum can answer many of the pertinent questions as to what was used and why by servicemen and women.

It isn’t long before one captures the significance of any historical artifact. Something as common as a plane takes on new meaning, especially one with much experience and story to tell. Each aircraft had seen many a different battles. Air dogfights pitting pilot against pilot, damaged and destroyed vehicles bare a solemn reminder of lives saved and those lost. The craft and necessity of a simple pant is further appreciated often carrying items to often save an endangered comrade.

The Paratrooper pant has a rich history, constructed with convenient storage in mind. Made often of a lighter chino fabric, these pants make for a good wear for this early Spring season.

Jonathan: Drawing inspiration from the functionality of WWII engineers, the twill fabric pant, chambray work shirt, denim jacket, and a knit tie + tie bar combo somewhat resembles that of a U.S. Military’s Class-A uniform. As for footwear I thought it only natural to go with a desert boot, aka “the-goes-with-anything-super-shoe” worn once by British forces during WWII’s Western Desert Campaign. This rugged pair of Levi’s features two simple flap pockets on each thigh along with brass button stamps for closure and come in slim but skinny fit similar to their 511 line. Details such as these make this pant surprisingly versatile to wear – either to today’s casual work event, or in the late 1930′s tending to the engine of a P-51 Mustang.

[Details] Trucker Jacket – Levis, Twill Cargo Pant – Levis, Chambray Workshirt – Dr. Martens, Desert Boots – Clarks Originals, Plaque Belt – J. Crew, Knit Tie & Tie Bar – Vintage, Thrift

Unyime: Even in my more younger years, I could appreciate the idea of a pilot’s wardrobe having seen them in old films and documentaries. Pilots were daring, carrying an essence of cool in the air, while maintaining their poise on the ground. Before our trip, I had removed the quilted lining from this bomber jacket, transforming it from a heavy piece of winter outerwear into a light windbreaker, suitable for the mild Spring season. The Sherpa-lined collar will spend most of it’s time turned down as well, to which I pinned on some buttons of two musicians, Fela Kuti and Thelonious Monk that often make their way into my “Recent Plays” list on the daily. Recently a turtleneck shirt has taken my interest, taking cue from the classic, deciding on one of a jersey cotton material which despite the usual design, is also lightweight in feel. These tailored Paratrooper pants are as Jon said, very versatile and I found myself storing more items on my person than usual. A well-worn of boots were called for, comfortable enough for walking, while remaining carefree to the outdoor terrain littered in old plane parts.

[Details] Sherpa-collar Bomber Jacket – L.L. Bean, Jersey Turtleneck Shirt – Roundtree and Yorke, Paratrooper Cargo Pant – Levis, Vintage, Mountaineering Boot – Vintage