Camouflage clothing has always been couture, but the trend can be better understood by looking back at our country’s history. The camo craze began somewhere in the 1980s, when American military campaigns instilled a sense of national pride into the hearts of Americans.
Now, camouflage pieces can be found in almost every designer’s collection, from high-end labels like Versace and Louis Vuitton to more casual brands like Mossy Oak and Dickies.
How to Style Camo
The earthy hues of camo seem to naturally complement certain skin tones, but pattern colors can vary widely. The aesthetic of the material depends on how it’s worn and accessorized, so the actual details of the pattern aren’t as important as you may think.
Assuming you don’t want to look like you’ve just returned from an unsuccessful hunting trip, it’s important to understand the nuances of the trend.
Here are the top three ways to style camo and make yourself look feminine at the same time:
1. A Little Goes a Long Way
You don’t have to wear tons of camouflage to make a statement year-round. Some of the best-looking outfits feature one piece of camo clothing or accessory, paired with other high-end, luxury pieces.
DO: Break up a boring or monochromatic outfit with a single camo statement piece. This could be a pair of shoes, a hair accessory or a handbag.
DON’T: Wear camo head-to-toe just because you own a lot of amazing pieces and want to show them all off. A little goes a long way, so don’t overdo it!
2. Wear Camo Day or Night
Camo is appropriate for all-day wear; it can transition from day to night and look amazing. Try to incorporate it into casual outfits by adding a camo piece over an already-complete look. Jackets are especially useful for this technique, especially if the jacket is fitted or features interesting details.
DO: Pair camo with luxury items and don’t be afraid to mix it with leather, denim or fur.
DON’T: Mix it with animal print, plaid, or other bold patterns.
3. Pair Camo with Metallics and Glitter
Camouflage looks amazing with anything that sparkles, making it the perfect pattern for going out (or staying in) while sporting a unique and trendy outfit. Transform one of your favorite basic looks into a runway-ready style just by wearing a pair of fitted camo jeans or sliding on a tee with camo detailing. Remember, don’t wear both unless you break up the pattern enough to make it visually interesting.
DO: Mix camo with gold, silver, pearl, or sequined accessories to add a hint of sparkle to any outfit.
DON’T: Overwhelm your look with too many dangling or loose-fitting pieces. Add fitted garments to keep the ensemble looking feminine.
The Takeaway
The most important aspect of styling camo is pairing it properly with high-quality pieces. It works well with everything from metallic jewelry to chunky booties and high-heeled stilettos. So don’t be afraid to give it a go!
What’s your favorite way to style camo? Let me know in the comments!
robin rue says
I like the look of camo. I don’t own anything that’s camo, but my husband is military so he has lots of it lol.
Hello Whitney says
Thank your husband for his service! Camo can be fun to style – you should give it a try 😉
Raquel says
When I was younger, I had some sparkly camo bellbottoms that I was so proud of, but everyone made fun of it because “Camo is for hiding. How are you gonna hide with those sparkles?” haha I definitely think Camo can be a fashion statement (:
Amber Myers says
What cute looks! I usually am surrounded by camo since my husband is in the military. I don’t wear a ton of it but I might pick up some pieces.
Hello Whitney says
Thanks, Amber! It’s definitely worth a try 😉
MelIssa Chapman says
Camoflauge is a lot of fun and I need To add a litle mor to my look. I love how you acCessorize witha small splash on that bag
Hello Whitney says
Thanks Melissa! Sometimes a little splash is the perfect way to make a statement 🙂
christine says
Love the camo backpack you feature here! So cute! I’m really loving camo this season — so many great pieces are available now
Hello Whitney says
Thank you! It’s one my favorite pieces. There are lots of great options out there!
Joan says
Great looks, I don’t think camo will ever go out of style, it just works either way no matter the weather too.
Hello Whitney says
You’re absolutely right. It’s great for any season!
cait says
camo is one of my favorite things to style in the fall 🙂 love your ideas here!
Hello Whitney says
Me too! Thanks for reading, Cait!
Barb Webb says
AS SOMEONE WHO LOVES CAMO, YOUR TIPS ARE SUPER HANDY FOR ME! rEALLY LOVE THE IDEA OF PAIRING WITH METALLIC FABRICS. nEED TO TRY THAT FOR THE HOLIDAYS.
Hello Whitney says
Glad you find them useful, Barb! Hope you enjoy!
Tasheena says
STUNNING! This post is really helpful. I love the way you put these looks TOGETHER.
Hello Whitney says
Thank you, Tasheena!
Sarah Bailey says
I have to admit I don’t think I’ve ever worn camo but I love how you have styled it! Such simple ideas that really work well together.
Hello Whitney says
Thank you! I think people don’t realize how versatile a pattern it really is 🙂
Pam Wattenbarger says
I like the understated look of your camo. It looks chic but Not over the Top. I could see myself those looks.
Hello Whitney says
Thank you so much! Hope you enjoy them 🙂
Lisa Favre says
I love camo with a hint of metallic accessories or something texturized like faux leather or faux fur. Now you’re making me want to buy a pair of camo pants!
Hello Whitney says
It pairs so well with metallic styles and textures! Great point!
Denay DeGuzman says
You look absolutely fabulous in camo. These images are gorgeous! I’d love to incorporate that little backpack into my own wardrobe. Thank you for this style inspiration!
Hello Whitney says
Aw, thank you Denay!
Krizzia Scollon says
I don’t own a camo to be honest but it does really look good when styled! You pulled it off flawlessly!
Hello Whitney says
You should give it a try 😉 It makes for great outfits!
Chef Dennis says
Camo is really good and you can wear it in many style. Thanks for sharing this. I will spread this to my female friends.
Hello Whitney says
It’s so versatile, isn’t it? Thanks, Dennis!
Terri Steffes says
I have seen people wear camo and look glamorous, but I don’t think that would be me. I did get some great ideas on styling camo that I might try!
Hello Whitney says
You might be surprised! It’s worth a try – I’m sure you can pull it off 😉
Rena says
These ensembles are all so cute. I love the silver with the camo the best. Gorgeous!
Hello Whitney says
Thank you, Rena! That’s one of my favorites, too 🙂
Kathy says
Camo is probably one of my favorites. I have been wearing camo for so long. it’s one of my favorite looks honestly. i think it can be styled with just about anything honestly.
Hello Whitney says
Me, too! It’s super versatile and can be really chic if styled well 😉
Autum says
I LOVE Camo!! Those camo pants are my fave!
Hello Whitney says
Thanks, they’re some of my favorites too!
Tiffany La Forge-Grau says
These are some super cute ideas for camo! I’ve always loved it but never thought i pulled it off lol
Hello Whitney says
Thank you! Give it another go; it can surprise you 😉
nene says
Love the different ways you styled Camo!! you look great!
Hello Whitney says
Thanks so much, Nene!
Lauren says
I love styling with camo! From joggers to flats, it’s a fun twist on neutrals!
Hello Whitney says
Me too! It’s so much fun to style <3
agnes says
I don’t have any camo print in my closet. I just now realize, why i did not even get any single piece of camo.
Hello Whitney says
Give it a try, Agnes! You’ll love it 😉
Madi Rowan says
I have to admit, that I’ve never been a huge fan of camo, but there are definitely some cute options here! It’s definitely a trend that has gotten more popular!
Hello Whitney says
Thanks for your honesty, Madi! I’d encourage you to give it a try with a fun accessory and see if you like it more 🙂
Catalina says
wow! Beautiful ideas!Love them all! Thanks for sharing with us!
Hello Whitney says
Thank you! Glad you enjoyed them!
Mama Maggie's Kitchen says
Wow! I am so loving this Camo style! You look really fabulous on those outfits.
Hello Whitney says
Thanks so much!
HilLesha says
I used to wear a lot of camo as a teenager. I think because of that is the reason why I don’t wear it now. However, you’ve styled it really beautifully!
Hello Whitney says
Thank you!
Lynndee says
I don’t have a camo in my closet, but I Must say, those camo looks are fab. You nailed those looks.
Hello Whitney says
Glad you like them, Lynndee!
JANNA says
i hAVE A FEW CAMO SWEATERS BUT DON’T FIND MYSELF WEARING THEM TOO OFTEN. LIKE IT ON OTHERS THOUGH!
Hello Whitney says
Feel free to explore camo in accessories as well. You might find the pattern goes further that way 🙂
Tatyanna says
That camo parker is calling my name! I need that in my life right now
xx Tatyanna
Hello Whitney says
Isn’t it cute?? Thanks so much, Tatyanna 🙂
LINDSAy says
Completely agree with your “less is more” approach to camo! Lovely blog!
Whitney Kutch says
Glad you like it, Lindsay!