The fashion industry is cold, hard, and fickle place where trends come as quickly as they go. While are there are a few trends that are considered classic and timeless fashion staples, such as the little black dress, these trends are few and far between. However, one trend with very practical origin continues to emerge and evolve season after season, year after years, and on runway after runway. That trend, of course is camouflage clothing for men and women.

The French have always had a flair for fashion, however, when the French military hired two artists to create a pattern that would allow their forces to blend into the surrounding forested areas during World War II, they didn’t intend to start one of the hottest fashion trends. While camouflage clothes have grown far beyond their military roots, their origins were strictly practical.

Army camouflage clothing slowly made its way onto the civilian dress scene during the late 1960’s and early 1970’s when returning Vietnam War veterans joined other activists in protesting the war. This created powerful imagery that inspired others to don this versatile pattern. In addition, this inspired the creation of camo hunting clothes during this time.

Fast forward to today, and camo hunting clothes aren’t just worn while hunting. They’ve grown to become representative an entire culture and way of life. Many avid hunters and outdoor enthusiasts wear camouflage on a regular basis as a fashion statement. For example, the Robertson family from AandE’s hit reality television series Duck Dynasty are often seen sporting camouflage on a regular basis away from hunting.

In fact, camouflage has continued to grow beyond being a trendy fashion statement and has begun appearing as a home decor and design trend. It’s now common to see items such as camo bed sheets, throw pillows, blankets, rugs, wall paper, furniture and more. And yes, camo ice cream is actually a thing.