Early Periods:
* Medieval: French soldiers wore a wide range of colors depending on their region, lord, or banner. There was no standardized uniform.
* Renaissance: During the 16th and 17th centuries, colors became more standardized. The French royal army (often called the "White Company") wore white, while other regiments might wear colors like red, blue, or green.
The Reign of Louis XIV (1643-1715):
* "Royal Blue": The iconic color of the French army during this era. This deep, vibrant blue was chosen to represent the French monarchy's power and authority.
* White: White uniforms continued to be worn by some units, including the elite "Gardes Françaises."
* Other Colors: Other regiments might wear red, yellow, or other colors to distinguish themselves.
The 18th and 19th Centuries:
* Blue: Blue remained the predominant color for French soldiers.
* Red: Some units, particularly those involved in the French Revolution, wore red coats.
* Green: The "Chasseurs à pied" (light infantry) adopted green uniforms.
20th Century:
* Blue: The French Army continued to wear blue uniforms, although shades and designs evolved over the decades.
* Khaki: In colonial settings, khaki was often worn for camouflage purposes.
* Camouflage: Modern French soldiers wear a variety of camouflage patterns depending on the environment and mission.
Reasons for Color Choices:
* Royal Authority: Blue, especially the "Royal Blue" of Louis XIV, was associated with royalty and power.
* Distinguishing Units: Different colors helped to identify individual regiments and companies.
* Practicality: White uniforms were impractical in battle, and darker colors provided some degree of camouflage.
* National Identity: The French Army's colors became a symbol of national pride and identity.
It's important to remember that this is a simplified overview. The colors worn by French soldiers were often specific to a particular regiment, era, and even individual soldier.