The Camo Comeback Is Here
It’s a print that looks great on everyone — from pop stars to Midwestern dads.
I’ve long associated camo print with two things: the boys who bullied me in elementary school and the cast of Duck Dynasty. A pattern I (at worst) feared and (at best) felt no connection with, I saw camo outfits only in the context of conservative values and Halloween costumes. I’ll admit I let my personal feelings about the print cloud my judgement of its potential. But now, I’m finally seeing camouflage for what it is (literally).
View this post on Instagram
It all started with Chappell Roan, the queer pop star whose camp aesthetic merges drag with an assortment of sub-genres. In recent months, Roan has incorporated Realtree — a camo variation that mimics trees — into her artistry. The Missouri-born singer has a best-selling merch line of Realtree hats, which are embellished with bold orange text that reads “MIDWEST PRINCESS” as a nod to her background and album title.
The caps were so in-demand that politicians-turned-memes Kamala Harris and Tim Walz got in on the hype. In early August, the duo’s presidential campaign released a line of hats seemingly inspired by Roan’s release. The consensus was clear: Camo is cool now.
is this real https://t.co/4HBBEQuo7q
— Chappell Roan (@ChappellRoan) August 7, 2024
Where else has camo print been coming back?
Alongside A-list merch releases, Fall 2024 collections have also been signalling the camo return. Vetements and Philip Plein (below) showcased streetwear basics like mini skirts and cargo pants, while cult-favourite label Wiederhoeft presented the glamour of the print with a bedazzled camo jacket. Runways aside, the age-old design has become a favourite among avant garde street style stars, with Rihanna recently wearing a pair of baggy print pants in NYC.
The rich significance of this Gen Z-dominated trend? Camo is classically rooted in conservative values. In being so successfully co-opted by a queer pop icon — and then a viral Democratic campaign — the pattern has reached witty internet-speak status. Today, camo is more than just a fishermen-friendly uniform. It’s an in-the-know nod to the current cultural climate and a cheeky reclamation of traditional values. But how do you wear it?
How to style camo outfits
Like with any print that may have you hesitant, when in doubt, start small. For an easy way in, follow the Walz/Roan way and accessorize with a Realtree cap. If you’re looking to put a playful spin on camo’s military connotations, opt for a pair of print cargo pants. To go full force, follow the lead of other street style figures and wear it as your top and bottom.
It may be the trend nobody saw coming (get it?) but it appears camo is here to stay. Below, find all the best ways to wear it this fall, from everyday basics to evening-wear statements.
The best camo designs to shop now
Port Authority pro camouflage series cap
You can’t go wrong with a novelty hat. This structured camo cap is not just meant for fans of fishing or Midwestern dads, it’s the easiest way to tap into the trend. Printed in the Realtree design du jour, the hat is an ideal entry point into the brownish green hue. Pair it with a polished leather jacket for an unexpected high-low effect.
Tna squad parachute pant
Aritzia’s Tna cargos have utilitarian appeal with the lightweight wearability of track-pants. Made with ParaLite — a breezy, parachute-inspired fabric — they feature a drawstring waistband and cuffed ankles for intentional styling.
They come with two lengths, so you can customize your look depending on your height. Pair with a tank top and a crisp pair of sneakers for a laid-back look.
Hollister hooded camo zip-up jacket
This ultra-soft jacket is the ideal outerwear piece to take you into fall. Featuring Realtree print, a zip-up closure and a roomy hood, it’s an oversized unisex piece that taps into the aesthetic’s utilitarian appeal. And thanks to its banded trims and cuffs, it has a vintage ’90s look that would pair perfectly with straight-leg jeans.
Lado Bakuchava camo corset
Regency-core meets Bass Pro Shop with this structured top. As a trending mainstay for the past few years, the corset has proven time and again that it can be reimagined and refreshed. Lado Bakuchava’s iteration features hardware dangling at the hem and worked into the neckline for an industrial appeal. To style, stack on your silver jewellery for an A+ accessorized finish.
Lululemon lab lightweight jacquard jacket
Thanks to its unisex cut and water-repellant fabrication, this jacquard jacket is a fool-proof fall staple. Complete with cargo pockets, adjustable cuffs and secure snap closures, it’s a lightweight pick for any outing, from crisp forrest hikes to street style ensembles. Plus, since it’s designed to fit loosely, it’s a layering staple as temps drop.
Diesel O-mirtow skirt
Think you can’t do cargo with a skirt? Diesel begs to differ. The brand’s zebra-camo design has all the makings of a classic cargo pant — minus the actual pants. Lined with deep zip-up pockets and made of a breathable fabric, it has a storage-friendly look that only gets cooler when bulked up with items. Best of all, it’s equipped with drawstrings and a middle zipper for customizability.
Urban Outfitters star appliqué camo crew neck
The star on this chunky camo print crew neck takes it from subtle staple to outfit centrepiece. As a result of the lightweight feel and roomy cut, it’s great for layering during transitional seasons. Pair with a mini skirt and style atop a collared button-up to nail a prep-meets-outdoorsy aesthetic.
Retrofete Arlie jacket
Bring glam to the earthy oeuvre with Retrofete’s bedazzled jacket. Featuring a block pattern, it’s adorned with sequins for an elevated evening finish. With cargo pockets and a button-up closure, it blends a utilitarian fit with a dressy elegance.
Whether you pair it with baggy jeans for an oversized fit or skip the pants and wear it with strappy heels, this piece proves camo can blend into any occasion.
Good American Slim Fitted Tee
Good American’s camo shirt combines the traditional menswear print with a classically feminine baby tee cut (with plus-size options, of course). Because the muted design features a chunky pattern in brown and olive shades, it’s easy to factor into your wardrobe’s colour palette. With a subtly slim-fitting shape and a slight cropped length, it evokes an iconic It girl dressing staple.
This article contains affiliate links, so we may earn a small commission when you make a purchase through links on our site at no additional cost to you.
