The Language of Clothing

[Janner52]

I would be interested in hearing members views on this subject. Something that annoys me a tad.

As a long serving soldier, in the British Army, I have always understood khaki to be the sand colour used for our uniforms since the end of the 19th century. It has continued in use up until the current time with some changes in shade.

However I notice over the last few years the term khaki is used to describe olive green or OG as we referred to it. Olive green was the colour we used for our combat uniforms prior to the introduction of camouflage material.

Another example is the use of the term blazer. Previously a jacket usually worn by school children and by members of various associations and other organisations to denote membership. It now is used to describe a jacket, in the style of a man’s suit jacket, but sold separately.

More of interest to forum members is the word kilt. I grew up understanding it to refer to the garment worn by the Highlanders of Scotland but it now seems to refer to any bifurcated garment designed to be worn by men. I do get that there are some brand named garments where “kilt” forms a part of that name. That is excluding such garments worn traditionally in other countries such as the sarong and the Fijian sulu.

Confusingly retailers also use the term kilt to describe any short, tartan, pleated skirt made for women.

I know times are changing but it seems like another attempt to dumb down.

I should point out that that my intention is not to start a political debate or offend anyone, as I do understand that there are lots of opinions here. I merely want to see if others see things in the same way.