Practicality is one thing, but chef’s uniforms have a history of more than a thousand years. In ancient times, this profession was among one of the most respected professions and the chefs’ hat was considered not less than a crown.
The cook was not just a person making food, but they were the only people capable of poisoning kings. For this reason, only the most trusted ones were selected to feed the royal family.
And they were given chef’s uniforms as a way to honor this profession.
But have you ever thought about the secret behind the white color of this attire?
This question takes us to our next heading.
Why are Chef Uniforms White?
They didn’t choose white for no reason; there is a logic behind the selection of white color.
We can Use Bleach
It’s a common belief, in fact, a fact that white gets dirty quickly, and stains are more prominent on this color than any other shade. Where this property may have some disadvantages, white color is very easy to clean as compared to other colors.
When working in the kitchen, chefs are prone to spilling and sprinkling food, oil, juices, etc., on their clothes. All the stains on their uniforms are easily visible, and they can wash them away easily using bleach. Should it be some other color, bleaching cannot be the option, and the stubborn stains will stay forever.
It is a Symbol of Cleanliness
Preparing food for others is a job that requires a high level of cleanliness because dirty clothes create an impression of unhygienic food. And what could be more clean than white? This color is the epitome of cleanliness.
It Reflects heat
Black absorbs the most heat, and white, on the other hand, absorbs the least heat. Different colors lie somewhere in between. Working in the kitchen with stoves and flames requires keeping an individual calm and comfortable. And white color helps the chef to feel relaxed even in the presence of intense heat.
Let’s have a look at the components of chefs’ uniforms
What Makes a Chef’s Uniform?
While today a lot more things have been added to a chef’s uniform, a basic uniform consists of the following:
- A white custom chef coat or jacket,
- A white hat which is also known as Toque Blanche,
- And checkered loose-fitted pants.
In addition to this essential attire, some chefs also wear aprons. This article will discuss the necessary components of the uniform that all chefs wear.
The Chef’s Hat
Toque Blanche is the representation of the respect that they deserve. The kings used to honor their chefs with these hats because they were an essential part of the royal family, the ones who were feeding the family.
The height of the cap defines the hierarchy, status, and experience within the kitchen. The bigger the rank, the taller the hat is. And the wrinkles represent the number of ways in which the chef could prepare eggs.
Today, the height of the hat does not increase with their ranks, and also, the number of wrinkles is not added according to their expertise, but it still shows respect.
However, the practical use of a toque is to display cleanliness and prevent hairs from falling into the food.
The Custom Chef’s Jacket
With time, the custom chef jackets have evolved, but the traditional ones containing this uniform's essence are still the white coats.
The material used in these coats is 100% cotton because it is soft, breathable, and durable. Custom chef coat is neither tight nor loose but just the right fit. Its sleeves are either long or short, but both kinds have their benefits. Long sleeves protect chefs from cuts and burns, whereas short sleeves do not come in the way of their work. Another feature of a custom chef coat is the reversible sleeves. It has two functions:
- Acts as an extra protective layer against cuts, burns, and heat
- Instead of changing clothes, Chefs can fold the upper layer if they get dirty.
The Chef’s Pants
These are not necessarily white, but most chefs prefer black and white checks on their chef’s pants. It is loosely fitted to aid the free movement of the individual. Moreover, accidents are prevalent in the kitchens, and fitted pants will stick tight to the skin in hot spills and burns. It is another reason to choose loose pants.
What Else?
Chef uniform is the honor that chefs hold for their excellent job. And every component is made as safe as possible. Working in the kitchen is not easy; with all the heat and danger, chefs have a huge responsibility of making hygienic and tasty food. And we must provide them with the best fabric attire that is comfortable, breathable, and safe.
