February 01, 2022

Chino: A Beige Shade That's Anything But Boring

This month, we shine a spotlight on Chino. This warm, nature-inspired shade is a cross between beige and green, with a neutrality that’s soothing on the eye.

Chino’s story first began in 1848, when British lieutenant-general Sir Harry Lumsden was stationed in India. At the time, the British military uniform was white, a hue that stood out sharply against the terrain. To solve this problem, Lumsden created a camouflage dye made from a mixture of coffee, curry, and mulberries. The color was named “khaki,” the Hindu word for dust.

By World War II, chinos (flat-front pants sporting this khaki dye) were standard issue for American troops. Chinos only grew in popularity after the war when returning soldiers wore them around college campuses. Chinos are sometimes considered a more formal version of khaki pants, though their hues are interchangeable.

Over the past few years, we’ve seen warm, neutral shades rocket in popularity. Evoking comfort and ease, Chino’s influence can be found in the worlds of fashion, automotive, and home interior alike. This versatility is why we have a Chino of our own within our Ultraleather Pro collection. The color’s chameleon-like personality opens endless possibilities in any market.

Transforming with whichever color it’s paired with, Chino epitomizes “go with the flow.”

When coupled with subtle neutrals, like Dwell Veil (left) and

Ultraleather Arctic (right), Chino becomes soft, and the warm palette offers a sense of gentleness and peace.

Chino’s pairing with earthen tones, like Pearlized Mica (left) and Geom Penny (right), evoke nature, conjuring a fallen piece of bark one might find on a walk in the woods.

With the navy of Geom Ashton (left) and the cream of Eco Tech Whisper, (right) Chino is comforting, creating a haven of respite.

When paired with pink, like Ultraleather Pro Blush (left), and green, like Ultraleather Sonora (right), Chino’s sense of authenticity shines through. This combination is also frequently seen in fashion and interior design.

Partnering Chino with the invigorating yellow of Ultraleather Citrus (left) foster an energizing and innovating space, while the addition of Dwell Sandpiper (right) creates a balance in that same space.

With the turquoise palette of Eco Tech Pacifica (left) and Dwell Glaze (right), Chino is calming, eliciting the tranquility one might feel when looking out onto the ocean.