Thursday, September 2, 2010

Looking to add a little bit of discipline to your wardrobe?

This season’s solider inspired styling could do the trick. Luella, Paul Smith and Dries Van Noten all put military on the style map for autumn/winter, marching models down the catwalk in utilitarian khakis, sturdy military jackets and bold as brass detailing.

Tapping into soldier chic doesn’t have to be a military operation though.   

Stand guard for some styling tricks that will have all your fashion peers saluting you.

Coat of arms
Winter jackets (for the mall and cinema of course) have had a military makeover with brass buttons, frogging (braid fastenings) and belted styles. Think pared-down Sergeant Pepper and you’re on the right track.

You’ll find military styles in long tailored tail coat versions or cute cropped jackets that will work for both smart and casual ensembles.
Opt for traditional black, navy or grey for versatility or stand out from the style army with grenadier guard-inspired vivid red.

Soldier-style staples
Military styling doesn’t have to be obvious. Much of the military on the autumn/winter catwalks showcased practical staples like pocket shirts, high-waisted belted trousers and cool khaki dresses you could adopt into your everyday wardrobe.

Sienna Miller ditched the dresses during her promotional tour for film ‘GI Joe’ for daytime soldier chic, posing in military-inspired Loewe canvas trousers and white blouse with piping and gold buttons.

Work two trends in one by seeking out tops and cardigans with statement shoulders featuring gold embellishment or buttons.

Military styling tricks
The direction you take your military style strike is all in the accessories. Cheryl Cole bagged designer Alexander Wang’s fierce strappy heeled boots to stomp through her X Factor dance routine.

March down a tough biker style road with strappy lace-up and buckle boots or take on a more refined equestrian look with long riding boots. Have fun with dressing-up box extras like statement brooches, peak hats and medal-inspired embellishments to give a not-so-subtle salute to the military trend.