Whether or not you’re a keen observer of the ebb and flow of designer style, chances are you can’t help but have noticed the recent eruption of epaulettes, cargo pockets, and infantry boots on magazine covers and department store shelves. However, unlike some fashion trends, this new emphasis on military style comes with a valid reason: it just looks good. Here are a few tips on how to master this latest craze.
Look For Military Details & Materials
This look is all about adding subtle, evocative details to everyday wardrobe staples. Look for colors that blur earthy with industrial; black, brown, moss, grey, and khaki are great places to start. For shirts, chest pockets, metallic buttons, and heavy stitching are all musts. Cargo pants are perfectly suited to the military look, but raw denim jeans and trousers both compliment the style nicely. Pea coats with epaulettes are perhaps this style’s quintessential item, which, combined with their versatility, makes them well-worth investing in. Bonus points for metallic or leather detailing.
The Finishing Touches
Another important part of mastering the military style is knowing how to accessorize properly. The perfect ensemble for these outfits are Spartan and functional. Oversized watches with matte finishes and simple, easy to read dials are an excellent foil, as are aviator-style sunglasses. Boots are an obvious choice for footwear; go for round toes and lace-fronts in lieu of the daintier, more pointed slip-ons. Strictly speaking, hats and flashy jewelry do not fit in with this style (or many others, for that matter.)
These are the basics of military chic. However, this style may have roots in the military, but it isn’t nearly as strict. If you’re looking to grab this newest craze by the horns, our advice is to play around with it and experiment with what works best for you.