The traditional Chef's uniform (or chef's whites) includes a Toque Culinary ("white hat"), white Double-breasted jacket, pants in a black-and-white houndstooth pattern, and apron. It is a common occupational Uniform in the Western world. In the middle ages, doctors were only available for the rich, hence, chefs had a high public standing similar to doctors, which may be a reason for wearing white. The chef buttons also have a meaning; while qualified chefs wear black buttons, students wear white buttons. Kitchen brigates used to be massive, although today, chefs must be occupied in various areas of the kitchen, thus, being in charge for only one section is hardly possible anymore.
