What Fabric Is Typically Khaki?

10 December, 2025 Marketing Department

When people say “khaki,” they often mean three different things all at once:

  • a specific color (that light brownish, sandy shade),

  • a certain style of pants or uniforms, and

  • sometimes even a particular fabric.

So if you’re planning uniforms for your company, school, or team, it’s normal to ask: What fabric is typically khaki? And more importantly: Which khaki fabric will work best for your uniforms?

Let’s break it down in a simple, no-jargon way so you can choose khaki uniforms that look sharp, feel comfortable, and last a long time.

Khaki: Color vs. Fabric vs. Weave

First, a quick reality check:

  • Khaki is a color first, not a fabric. It’s that earthy light brown with a hint of green or gray—originally used for military uniforms because it blends well with dust and nature.

  • Traditionally, khaki uniforms were made using a cotton twill weave (also called chino) – that familiar diagonal pattern you see when you look closely at dress pants.

  • Today, “khaki fabric” usually means a twill or similar sturdy weave in a khaki color, made from cotton, polyester, or blends.

So when you’re asking what fabric is “typically khaki,” what you’re really asking is:

What fabrics are most commonly used to make khaki-colored uniforms and pants?

Let’s go through the main players.

The Most Common Fabrics Used for Khaki Uniforms

1. Cotton Twill (a.k.a. Chino)

If khaki had a “classic” fabric, it would be cotton twill.

Why it’s popular for khaki uniforms:

  • Has that neat, slightly structured look that’s perfect for offices, schools, and semi-formal uniforms

  • Softens over time and becomes more comfortable with wear

  • Breathable—great for hot, humid climates like the Philippines

  • The twill weave makes it more durable than plain cotton fabric

Cotton twill khaki is ideal if you want uniforms that look polished but still feel relaxed—think office staff, customer-facing employees, hotel or retail teams, and smart-casual school wear.

2. Poly-Cotton Twill (Cotton + Polyester Blend)

For many modern Khaki Uniforms, a poly-cotton blend is the sweet spot.

Typically, this means:

  • Cotton for softness and breathability

  • Polyester for strength, wrinkle resistance, and color retention

Benefits of poly-cotton khaki for uniforms:

  • Less ironing needed – it creases less compared to 100% cotton

  • More resistant to frequent washing (perfect for uniforms used 5–6 days a week)

  • Better shape retention – it doesn’t “grow” or sag as much throughout the day

  • Colors hold up better over time, especially for corporate or school branding

This is a go-to fabric for companies that want professional-looking khaki uniforms that can keep up with everyday wear and tear. CraftClothing often uses a mix of natural and synthetic fibers specifically chosen for durability and comfort in uniforms and workwear.

3. Stretch Twill (Cotton + Spandex/Elastane)

Need uniforms that move with your team? Enter stretch twill.

This is usually:

  • Cotton or poly-cotton twill

  • With a small amount (around 2–5%) of spandex or elastane

Why teams love stretch khaki fabric:

  • Extra comfort for active roles—sales staff, merchandisers, field agents, hotel or airline staff, etc.

  • Easier to bend, reach, and move without feeling restricted

  • Keeps a smart silhouette while still feeling “forgiving”

If your team is always on their feet, going up and down stairs, or moving around a lot, stretch khaki fabric is an excellent upgrade from regular twill.

4. Performance Polyester & Ripstop Fabrics

For more demanding environments—like security, logistics, utilities, or outdoor staff—khaki can also be made from more technical fabrics, such as:

  • Performance polyester – lightweight, moisture-wicking, and quick-drying

  • Ripstop fabric – woven with a special reinforcing technique that makes it resistant to tearing

These are ideal when:

  • Uniforms are exposed to sun, sweat, and frequent washing

  • Staff work in outdoor or semi-outdoor areas

  • You need something tougher than regular office wear

You’ll often see these fabrics in khaki for tactical uniforms, field personnel, and very active roles that still require a neat, coordinated look.

5. Drill and Gabardine

If you want more structure and formality, some khaki uniforms are made from:

  • Drill – a heavy-duty cotton or poly-cotton twill used for workwear and uniforms

  • Gabardine – a tightly woven twill fabric with a smooth finish, often used for more formal trousers and blazers

These are great for:

  • Corporate khaki uniforms that need to look sharp and premium

  • Industries that want a more “tailored” or executive look

  • Pieces like blazers, trousers, and more formal uniform sets

They tend to be heavier than standard twill, so they’re best for air-conditioned offices or roles that don’t require too much physical activity.

How to Choose the Right Khaki Fabric for Your Uniforms

Now that you know the usual fabrics behind khaki, how do you pick the best one for your team? Here are a few guiding questions:

1. Where will the uniforms be used?

  • Office / Indoor, air-conditioned:

    • Cotton twill, poly-cotton twill, or gabardine are all great options.

  • Outdoor / On-the-go / Fieldwork:

    • Consider poly-cotton twill, performance polyester, or ripstop fabric.

2. How active is the wearer?

  • Desk job or front desk: Classic twill or gabardine works well.

  • Always moving (sales, service, field staff): Stretch twill and poly-cotton are more comfortable.

3. How often will the uniforms be washed?

  • Daily or very frequent washing:

    • Poly-cotton and performance fabrics will hold their shape and color longer.

  • Occasional or rotation-based use:

    • Pure cotton twill is still a great choice and feels very premium.

4. What image do you want to project?

  • Clean, corporate, and professional:

    • Go for structured twill, gabardine, or drill in a classic khaki shade.

  • Relaxed but neat, perfect for casual brands:

    • Soft cotton twill or stretch twill in a slightly lighter or warmer khaki tone.

Why the Right Khaki Fabric Matters for Your Brand

Khaki looks simple, but it sends a strong message: grounded, reliable, approachable, and professional.

Choosing the right fabric makes that message last by ensuring your uniforms:

  • Hold their color and shape after many washes

  • Stay comfortable in Philippine weather

  • Reflect the level of quality you want your customers to associate with your brand

When people see your staff in well-made khaki uniforms, they won’t just notice the color—they’ll feel the consistency, organization, and care your brand puts into every detail.

Get Well-Crafted Khaki Uniforms with CraftClothing

At CraftClothing, we don’t just match you to a “khaki color.” We help you choose the best fabric and construction for your team’s actual day-to-day work. Our products are made from carefully selected cotton weaves and blended fibers designed for lightness, durability, and long-term use, perfect for uniforms that go through frequent machine washing.

Whether you need khaki for:

  • Corporate office uniforms

  • Retail and hospitality staff

  • School or organization wear

  • Field and service teams

—we’ll guide you on fabric, cut, and customization options like embroidery, printing, and panel designs so your uniforms perform as well as they look.

Ready to find the right khaki fabric for your team?
Explore our custom Khaki Uniforms and let’s start crafting uniforms that are comfortable, durable, and proudly on-brand.

What Does Khaki Look Like? A Simple Style Guide to Khaki Uniforms
← Older Post
What Color Is True Khaki?
Newer Post →