Neither Black nor White: The Chic Neutral Shade Everyone Is Sporting This Summer
Khaki and chic are two terms I never anticipated using together. Unfortunately, stuffy khaki pants were a staple of my Catholic school uniform during my childhood. Nowadays, however, this subtle hue has been embraced by high fashion. It’s no surprise that khaki is subtly trending this summer, establishing itself as the season's most sophisticated neutral. Characterized as a light shade of tan or beige with hints of yellow and green, khaki has traditionally been linked with outerwear (think trench coats) and trousers. Now, this adaptable color is appearing in various categories, including tank tops, t-shirts, and shorts. Like other neutrals, khaki matches beautifully with both muted tones and bright colors, making it attractive to both minimalists and maximalists.
Have I convinced you about the khaki trend this summer? If so, continue reading for six khaki outfit inspirations to recreate this season, along with stylish items to enhance your warm-weather wardrobe.
**Wide-Leg Khaki Pants + Classic White Tee**
In recent times, I've begun to appreciate khaki pants, viewing them in a more fashionable light. This ensemble demonstrates that they can indeed appear quite chic. Simply pair them with a classic white tee and drape a luxurious sweater over your shoulders.
**Shop the Look**
- Madewell: The Everyday Trouser in Poplin
- Anine Bing: Jeremy Baseball Cap
- Sensi Studio: Large Straw Tote
**Khaki Tank + Coordinating Pants**
You might not have considered incorporating a khaki tank into your summer wardrobe—until now. For a relaxed vacation outfit, wear the top under a white short-sleeve button-down. Complete the look with trousers in a slightly darker or lighter shade for a chic monochromatic style.
**Shop the Look**
- DONNI: The Linen Relaxed Shirt
- J.Crew: Oval Pendant Necklace With Leather Cord
**Cropped Khaki Trench + Black Capris**
You may have stored away your full-length trench coats until fall, but a cropped, waist-length version is ideal for cool summer evenings and air-conditioned offices. Pair this outerwear with capri pants and finish your outfit with flip-flops.
**Shop the Look**
- & Other Stories: Boxy Jacket
- MANGO: Leather Strap Sandals
- Tory Burch: Romy Small Shoulder Bag
**Khaki Midi Skirt + Oversize Navy Tee**
Add texture to your summer wardrobe with a khaki suede skirt. This versatile piece pairs effortlessly with everything from a relaxed oversized tee (as shown above) to an elegant silk tank. If you choose the tee, keep the ensemble casual with trendy red-and-black flip-flops.
**Shop the Look**
- MANGO: Small Split-Leather Bag
- ZARA: Contrast Leather Sandals
**Khaki Dress + Vibrant Sweater**
This category is about utilitarian chic. Combining style with practicality, a khaki dress inspired by utilitarian design is one of summer's most overlooked pieces. Plus, the spacious pockets make it as functional as it is fashionable. Add a burst of color with a cherry-red sweater draped over your shoulders or tied around your waist.
**Shop the Look**
- & Other Stories: Cotton Utility Wrap Mini Dress
- Quince: Mongolian Cashmere Crewneck Sweater
- Longchamp: Le Pliage Original Large Nylon Tote Bag
**Khaki Bermuda Shorts + Long-Sleeve White Tee**
Give your summer attire a Pretty Woman-inspired vibe with Bermuda shorts. A khaki pair, in particular, exudes sophistication, especially when paired with a simple long-sleeve white tee and black leather ballet flats.
**Shop the Look**
- Sam Edelman: Cotton Blend Culottes
- Aritzia: Interlock Cotton Steps Longsleeve
- Reformation: Cashmere Boyfriend Sweater
- STEVE MADDEN: Cyntra Black Leather
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Neither Black nor White: The Chic Neutral Shade Everyone Is Sporting This Summer
If you haven't noticed, khaki is the trendy neutral color that people are opting for instead of black and white this summer.