Chef whites are more than tradition. They're a practical, hygienic uniform built for one of the toughest working environments there is, protecting chefs from heat, steam and splashes while keeping everyday clothing away from food. If you're kitting out a kitchen, here's what to look for in each part of the uniform.

Why the double-breasted chef jacket works

The classic double-breasted chef jacket exists for good reason. The double layer of fabric protects the chest and arms from heat, steam and splashes, and the jacket can be reversed to hide stains mid-service.

White remains the traditional choice because it reflects heat, shows contamination clearly and can be washed at high temperatures. Modern kitchens increasingly opt for black or colour-trimmed jackets for a contemporary look, which suits open kitchens where chefs are on show. Darker colours hide marks, but they also hide dirt, so they still need changing just as often.

Long sleeves give the most protection against burns from oven doors, grills and hot pans. Short-sleeved jackets are popular in very hot kitchens and pastry sections, but think about the tasks each chef does before choosing them.

Fabrics and features that keep chefs cool

Breathability is essential. Look for lightweight polycotton fabrics, vented backs and mesh panels that keep chefs cool during a busy service. Polycotton also dries quickly, creases less than pure cotton and holds up well to frequent hot washes.

Press-stud fastenings are a smart feature too, allowing a jacket to be removed quickly if hot liquid spills. Other useful details include:

• Sleeve pockets for a pen or probe thermometer, so essentials are to hand without reaching into a trouser pocket.
• Turn-back cuffs that can be folded up during prep and rolled down near the stove.
• Studs or covered fastenings, which are less likely to come loose and end up in food than traditional buttons.

The rest of the kitchen uniform

Don't forget the rest of the uniform. Chef trousers with an elasticated or drawstring waist stay comfortable through long shifts, and classic black-and-white check hides small splashes between washes.

Bib and waist aprons add an extra protective layer and are quicker to swap mid-service than a full jacket. Skull caps, hats or hairnets support food hygiene compliance by keeping hair out of food. Food hygiene rules expect anyone handling food to wear clean, suitable clothing, so check with your local environmental health team if you're unsure what applies to your kitchen.

Slip-resistant kitchen footwear is arguably the most overlooked safety item in hospitality. Kitchen floors are often wet or greasy, and a fall while carrying a hot pan or a knife can be serious. If your risk assessment calls for safety footwear, safety shoes certified to EN ISO 20345:2022 have all passed a slip test on ceramic tile with a soap solution. The optional SR marking means they've also passed a tougher test with glycerine, which is closer to an oily kitchen floor. Older stock may carry SRA, SRB or SRC instead, and our guide to slip-resistant footwear ratings explains the difference. Choose closed, wipe-clean uppers that protect the top of the foot from hot spills.

Branding, care and common mistakes

Embroidery for chef names, job titles and restaurant logos is a small touch that adds real professionalism to any brigade. Keep logos to the chest or sleeve, and see our embroidery and printing range for garments that take decoration well.

Two common mistakes are ordering too few jackets and ignoring care labels. Each chef needs enough sets to change daily, plus spares for spills mid-service. Check the label before washing at high temperatures and treat grease stains promptly, before they set. For more laundry advice, read our guide on how to care for your workwear.

Quick answers

Why are chef whites white?

White reflects heat, shows contamination clearly and can be washed at high temperatures. It has also become the traditional sign of a professional kitchen, although black and colour-trimmed jackets are now common.

Why are chef jackets double-breasted?

The double layer of fabric gives extra protection from heat, steam and splashes across the chest. The jacket can also be fastened the other way to hide stains during service.

What shoes should chefs wear?

Chefs should wear closed, slip-resistant shoes with wipe-clean uppers. Where a risk assessment calls for safety footwear, look for EN ISO 20345 certification and the SR marking for extra grip on greasy floors.

Equip your kitchen properly and your team will look sharp, stay cool and work safely all service long. Browse our chefswear range, or contact our team for help choosing jackets, trousers and kitchen footwear.