I wonder if they're just bowing to the inevitable decline in the availability of khaki pants (for women, at least). I found exactly 1 pair at my store. Found another pair at Old Navy, but am not willing to spend much more than they charge for khaki pants because it's just not worn anymore. Used to be you could wear khaki pants with other outfits, now you just...obviously look like you work for Target, no matter what you wear on top.
Or you work in an office, though offices are getting away from it at least in my neck of the woods anyways.. Dark neat jeans are quickly replacing them.