In the culinary world old habits die hard, yet it seems some chefs are beginning to push some traditions to the limit - at least with their uniforms.

There’s no denying that the double-breasted, white chef coat is still king. But Lynn Anderson, senior sales specialist at Mauldin, SC-based Aprons Etc. says more colors, fabrics and subtle decorations are starting to surface.

“Most chefs still want to have that traditional look people expect to see, but they want to add their own personal touches,” she says. So whether it’s full-color coats, yarn-dyed prints, embroidered accents or piping along the seams, Anderson says Aprons Etc. is seeing more custom orders than ever before. “It used to be regimented as to who wore what,” she says. “Pastry chefs wore this, the head chef wore that, but now it’s much more individualized.”

Yet while upscale chefs often prefer to maintain their distinction, Anderson says many casual-dining chefs are opting out of the traditional coat and putting on a polo shirt. “Many casual restaurants are choosing chef attire that matches the employees and the theme of the restaurant,” she says. And because chefs are behind the grill and usually all over the kitchen, a polo is a cool and logical choice. “Or, if they are choosing a coat, they’re getting it in short sleeves or ¾ sleeves because it’s easier to work in,” she says.

What’s happening in the front of the house seems to parallel the trend toward a more relaxed uniform environment, as evidenced by the following snapshots of three top casual dining chains: