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Good news! For once we can discuss military without having to take sides in a heated debate, because this fall military has surged onto the fashion runways as one of the hottest trends. Sharply tailored, officer style jackets with double-breasted brass buttons and shoulder epaulettes, capped sleeves, piping and gold braided embellishments are truly chic, and can even remain a timeless piece in your wardrobe.
Aside from the military coats worn in World War II, you would see Brigitte Bardot wearing military inspired coats in the late ’60s, Madonna rocking a military jacket in the early ’90s, and no one can forget legendary Michael Jackson making military jackets a staple in his wardrobe with fitted and flashy jackets in a variety of colors. Beyonce, Rihanna and Taylor Swift have recently been seen paying homage to the King of Pop’s unforgettable style with their own highly embellished military coats.
The list of designers creating extravagant military jackets is long, with vintage Dior, Valentino, Ungaro, Balmain, Versace, Albert Nipon, Escada, and Armani possibly lurking in any number of vintage clothing shops. And, more current versions are available by Michael Kors, Bebe, BCBG Max Azria, Marc Jacobs, Ralph Lauren, DKNY, Anthropologie, Banana Republic, Urban Outfitters and Calvin Klein.
Fitted jackets with gold detailing, large metal buttons and ornate trims are big on the catwalks and everywhere in stores. You can even find affordable military styles at Target, H&M, Forever 21 and Gap. The most popular colors for this style are navy, gray, black, ivory and red, but you will also see them in fun colors like rose and bright yellow.
Try pairing your military jacket with an a-line dress and knee high boots for a sultry yet patriotic look. On casual days you can wear your fabulous military jacket with fitted jeans, a plain white tee shirt and a pair of over the knee boots. The strong silhouettes of these military jackets combine surprisingly well with feminine skirts and flirty hemlines, giving a balanced look of structure and vintage romance.
My dream jacket in this style is a tailored military jacket with a standing collar, asymmetrical buttoned front with a ruffled, tiered hem and ruffled sleeves. If you find a jacket in this style – buy it! Then pair it with leggings and boots, fitted jeans and your favorite platforms or even your LBD and a pair of statement heels.
Now find your perfect military coat and spend an evening as the sexiest admiral in the fashion navy!