At Chevron & Star, we understand that fashion is more than just clothing; it's a form of self-expression. For service members and veterans, finding the right style can be both a personal journey and a way to connect with the community.
Our goal is to provide insights into fashion that resonate with your unique experiences. Whether you're transitioning to civilian life or looking to refresh your wardrobe, we offer guidance on how to incorporate your military background into your personal style.
From practical tips on selecting versatile clothing to advice on dressing for various occasions, we aim to empower you to make confident fashion choices. We believe that your style should reflect who you are and the journey you've taken.
Stay tuned for articles that explore the latest trends, highlight veteran-owned fashion brands, and share stories of fellow service members who have made their mark in the fashion world. Together, we can redefine what fashion means for veterans and service members.
Choosing a Waterproof Camera Backpack: What Veterans Should Look For
Many service members leave the military with a habit of protecting gear from the elements, and that instinct carries over well into civilian hobbies like photography, videography and outdoor travel. A waterproof backpack built for cameras is one of those purchases where field experience genuinely helps you judge quality. Rather than relying on marketing language, it pays to look at the same details you would have checked before a long movement in bad weather.
Waterproof versus water-resistant
These terms are often used loosely. A water-resistant pack will shed rain for a while, usually through a coated fabric and a rain cover. A truly waterproof pack typically uses welded or taped seams, a roll-top or sealed zipper closure, and a material such as TPU-coated fabric. If a manufacturer cites an IP rating, read what it actually covers: some ratings describe splash protection, others brief submersion. For kayaking, river crossings or beach shooting, sealed construction matters far more than a tag that says "weatherproof."
Fit, padding and access
- Internal dividers: removable padded inserts let you reconfigure space for a camcorder, spare lenses, batteries and memory cards.
- Load carriage: a padded hip belt and sternum strap spread weight, which is worth noting for anyone managing back, knee or shoulder issues from service.
- Access trade-offs: roll-top designs keep water out but slow you down; side-access zippers are quicker but are a common weak point.
- Ventilation: fully sealed packs can trap sweat against your back on hot days, something San Diego hikers will notice quickly.
Practical habits that protect your equipment
Even a good pack benefits from simple routines. Add silica gel packets to absorb condensation, store batteries in a separate dry pouch, and rinse the pack with fresh water after saltwater exposure so zippers and seals do not corrode. Test any new bag at home by filling it with paper towels and running it under a shower before trusting it with a camcorder.
Photography and filmmaking are also popular ways for veterans to document their stories and stay active. If you are capturing your own experiences, take a look at our service stories, or browse our resources for programs that support veterans exploring creative and outdoor pursuits.