Saturday, October 16, 2010

Trend Watch: Military

Fashion is unrestricted, exhilarating, changeable and at times fickle. Yet one thing remains the same, it is the ultimate form of expression, because you live your life in it. And often times your outfit is the first impression others use to perceive you.

With each season comes an array of new trends and as most fashion lovers know, spring 2011 fashion shows have already taken place. With the quick overturn of fashion trends from season to season, it’s easy for the everyday woman to become a little unsure of what to try out and what to steer away from. And even more so, it can be hard to figure out how to wear the trends without compromising your personal style.

But when used effectively fashion can bring you unstoppable confidence. So before you knock fashion and decide to step out of the house in your Pink collection sweatpants take a moment and think about it. Paying attention to the latest trends does not mean giving up your personal identity to join the swarms of robotic fashion followers.

To illustrate the point, let’s take one of this season’s biggest trends, military-inspired outfits. The military trend has been around for many seasons now, with it first popping up in the form of 19th century inspired military jackets back in 2008 all the way up to the trend’s evolution of 20th century military inspired ready-to-wear for fall 2010. This trend features everything from army green cargo pants and worn in combat boots to double-breasted cardigans and army chic accessories. As a trend based on functionality and utility its a style that should remain current for a while. Now you may be thinking, "Military fashion? That’s not my style." However, this trend is extremely versatile and can work for a variety of personalities from super girly fashion lovers to your too cool for fashion droids.

Check out a few styling options!


Who says you have to be tough to be military chic? Try pairing your favorite cardigan with a pair of military inspired pants. The combat cuffed military trouser pant by Splendid is a great way to rock the military trend without utilizing cargo pants. A pair of riding boots lends the ensemble a harder edge while still maintaining a romanticized feminine appeal. Military inspired skirts are another great way to test out this trend. The key is mixing the harsher elements of military inspired clothing with feminine items. The contrast in styles adds a fresh look to your outfit.


While it’s nice to get in touch with your inner woman, you don’t have to be uber feminine to follow the fashion trends. Thanks to amazing designers such as Chanel and Yves Saint Laurent, menswear-inspired clothing in the female closet has become as regular as breathing. The military trend is a great way to follow "what’s in" while remaining comfortable and cute. For a simple look pair a loose fit white tee with a pair of army green cargo pants.

A pair of worn in combat boots finishes off the look of perfectly. Keep warm on cold, windy days with the shearling jacket, which is a hot item for fall 2010. This piece fits in nicely with the military trend, updating the look even further taking inspiration from Pilot fashion. This looks works best from a minimalistic standpoint. But if you want to dress it up a bit, try adding some army chic accessories like a pair of bedazzled dog tags or a chic handbag.


You don’t have to be Beyonce to dress like a diva. With the right attitude you can rock any style! Need some new items in your artillery? Try paring an olive green oversized dress shirt with some shiny leggings. The look is for perfect for daytime fun with a pair of cute flats. Or you can dress the look up with a pair of high heeled combat booties for a night of drinks on the town. For a little flair, try accessorizing with a statement ring and an army chic clutch bag.


So you rock out to Lacuna Coil, read Anne Rice books and love movies like Queen of the Damned? Well, we’ve all got our dark side. Let loose with some inspiration from 19th century military fashion trends and try pairing a military inspired jacket with your black skinny leg pants. Or for a dressier look try a form fitting little black dress with big shoulders and double breasted detailing. A high heel wedged boot would be the perfect piece to top off either of these looks.

No matter your personal style, anyone can follow the trends and tailor them to their own personal aesthetic. There are a million and one ways to interpret the trends. Just remember to have fun with fashion and always maintain the style that makes up you.

*This posting was featured on Richmond.com and can also be viewed at:

http://www2.richmond.com/content/2010/oct/14/trend-watch/

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