Look Like a Million Bucks on a Chef Salary
by Wendy Croix
Chef School Review Columnist
In the past, when chefs wanted to look great on their chef jobs, they had to fork over a lot of cash for pricey European uniforms. Now, thanks to Chef Revival, kitchen couture’s available on the average chef’s salary.
Earning Your Chef’s Toque
The toque, or tall hat, traditionally worn by chefs as the signature look of their jobs, has a long history. Through the ages, chefs have always covered their hair. In the eighteenth century, chefs wore stocking caps whose colors signified their ranks. The starched white toque, or toque blanche, indicates cleanliness. Its pleats—all 100 of them—denote the many ways to cook an egg. Your chef’s toque is the badge of your profession.
If You Want a Career as a Chef, Look the Part in Style
Badge of the profession or no, chef’s gear too often looks as shapeless as a flour sack. In fact, Revival’s general manager, pastry chef Kim de la Villefromoy, calls the standard white coveralls “the cheapest nastiest thing to cover the person’s body while working in a restaurant.” No wonder he signed on to professionalize the look of those seeking a career as a chef. Most notably, Revival dressed contestants on the Fox reality show Hell’s Kitchen in their snap front Metro jacket—giving Revival a higher brand recognition than Tommy Hilfiger for the run of the show!
Traditional Kitchens, New Looks
Since 1986 Chef Revival has offered chefs innovative clothing that fits their salaries. The original business started with two chefs and two sewing machines. The Australian duo came up with the Chef Tunic, the first buttonless pullover jacket. Revival’s wrap-around pants design is so original that it’s patented.
Today, your career as a chef might see you strutting through your kitchen in easy care denim. Thanks to Revival, you might be sporting the grey Cuisinier Jacket if the traditional white isn’t your taste. If the Revivalists have their way, you’ll wear comfortable clogs and attach their “hang watch” to your jacket, freeing your hands for those magnificent culinary creations.
About the Author
Wendy Croix, Ph.D. is a freelance writer, cultural critic and university professor. In her twenty years as a professional educator, Wendy has guided hundreds of students toward the careers of their dreams.
Source(s)
Chef Revival
The Chef Revival Story
“Nike, Adidas Get Butts Kicked by Chef Revival. Chef Who?” by Jim Edwards. Brandweek 46.33 (Sep 19, 2005).
Posted on July 9, 2007 at 2:37 PM
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