After the release of Oscar-winning film American Sniper, the country is now swept up in a wave of patriotism and pro-military sentiments. The story of the most accurate and deadly sniper in American history has united the nation, with many using his story as inspiration to donate to veteran and military charities in his honor.

However, you don’t have to be deadly Navy SEAL sniper or even in the military to rock camouflage clothing. Sure, camouflage has its roots deep within the military, but camouflage clothes have since evolved and is now considered one of the most highly sought after fashion trends and styles in the industry.

Although it may seem difficult to imagine, camouflage clothing for men and women weren’t always so mainstream. It all began in of the world’s greatest fashion capitals; France.

During World War II, the French army commissioned two artists to create a pattern that would disguise their personnel and troops from enemy forces. The newly designed camouflage pattern worked so well that it was later adopted by American military forces as well as military forces across the world.

Army camo clothing isn’t the only kind of camouflage clothing. Camo hunting clothes are worn both by avid hunters and self-proclaimed city slickers. The pattern has become just as — if not more — popular than traditional military uniforms and is worn by several different genres within the fashion world.

However, camouflage clothing isn’t only a fashion trend, it can serve as a powerful fashion statement.

When battered, bruised, and shell-shocked Vietnam veterans began returning home during the late 1960’s and early 1970’s, the joined in the several peace protests against U.S. involvement in Vietnam. However, during their protests, they also donned their camouflage fatigue uniforms and combat boots, while sporting long hair. This ironic juxtaposition of war and peace made a powerful statement that is still remembered today.