Military-inspired fashion has been around for quite some time and the fact that it continues to re-emerge has caused this look to transcend beyond the boundaries of a ‘trend.’ On the Spring 2010 runways, military-inspired pieces proved to be more versatile than ever and were used to create a broad spectrum of looks: classic, avant-garde, feminine, androgynous boho, edgy- there are just so many amazing directions to take.
For a classic, clean style, team cargos with a sharp blazer and towering platforms like Victoria Beckham or pair a military vest or jacket with a crisp white button down and sharply tailored pants or shorts for a more androgynous style as seen at Rag & Bone.
Alexa Chung created the perfect thrown-together and totally on-point look (her specialty!) by layering an oversized vintage military jacket-shirt hybrid over her Isabel Marant boho-top and vintage denim cut-off combo. The there’s Rachel Bilson, who demonstrated a great every-day piece a military jacket is, teaming the Gap’s military jacket with Current/Elliott Cropped Legging Jeans, J Crew Ballet Flats ($98), and a woven Chanel Shopping Tote.
For a rebellious, rock-inspired spin, which dominated on the Balmain runway, throw some edgy pieces into the mix- think leather pants, micro minis, punk rock accessories, or metallic leggings, like the style from Sass & Bide ($89) seen on Whitney Port. You can also go the flirty and femme route by pairing structured, military looks with floaty, floral, or sequined pieces. The moral of the story: military-inspired pieces will complement any wardrobe no matter what your personal style may be.
Now that we’ve discussed ways to rock this style, lets take a look at some key military-inspired pieces!
Alexander Wang Silky Army Skirt with Front Tie, $385. Modest enough for work but cool enough for play, this skirt (which also looks amazing with the front fold undone) is destined to be a wardrobe favorite for many years to come.
Forever 21 A-Ten-Hut Military Jacket, $24.80. An awesome alternative to a basic blazer.
Torn by Ronny Kobo Alana Trench, $374. Wear this sleeveless dress over just about any outfit or belt it up and wear it as a chic trench-dress, the endless options make this piece worth the price-tag .
J Brand Houlihan Skinny Cargo Pants, $230 (recently seen on Kate Bosworth). A fashion-forward spin on classic cargos. These will not only go with anything, they are insanely flattering.
Urban Renewal Army Surplus Jacket, $48. The perfect piece for incorporating a fresh military flavor into your every day look.
Nanette Lepore Overboard Dress, $398. Gorgeously tailored, incredibly flattering, and adorned with the perfect touch of unexpected detailing.
DSQUARED2 Polly Pocket Mini Skirt, $559. Soften this tough-as-nails skirt with an ethereal blouse or basic tank for a cool, cutting-edge look.
Free People ‘Benji’s Desert’ Cargo Jacket, $138; NOW: $91. The pop of neon gives this standby military-style a modern and playful kick.
Kookai Linen Military Playsuit, $110. This fuss-free romper calls for piles of funky and chunky boho accessories.
Sauce Army Vest, $92. Update any outfit, from jeans and a tee to a flirty frock, with this rugged vest.
Gap Roll-Up Bermudas, $39.50. They may show less leg, but for some reason bermudas are just so much sexier than standard short-shorts. Pair these with anything from a wife-beater to a floaty boho top.
TopShop Washed Military Shirt, $55. The military shirt is the new boyfriend shirt- simple, wearable and effortlessly sexy.
– SABRINA ALEXIS
Splash image by Meagan Aguayo