Prepare to Fight the Cold

I recently scored such a great bargain on a coat that I am thinking about indulging in a second one this year. I usually go with a menswear style, so since that is already covered with my thrift store find, I think I will try something slightly different, like one with military detailing.

The military look is still going strong as one of the hot fashion trends this season. Military or uniform detailing is showing up all over men’s and women’s clothing, shoes, and accessories. This is such a cool trend, it was just a matter of time before it was translated into outwear. What I like most about this trend is it’s pretty similar to menswear, so it works for both sexes and for both long and short styles of outerwear.

The most identifiable use of military detailing on outerwear is the use of double rows of buttons. This can either be done with buttons in the same or contrasting color or fabric, or with gold or silver metal. I suggest if you’re not ready or don’t want to fully commit to the military look, your best bet is to choose a coat with color or fabric-colored buttons. This way, the buttons don’t stand out, and your coat can also pull double duty with its menswear vibe.

Another way to work the military trend on outerwear is to choose a coat with a military-style collar and or other detailing like epaulets, back detailing, or an asymmetrical opening across the chest. This extra detailing can be done subtly, or so it stands out with a contrasting fabric or textile. Gold piping is a nice touch, but it may be a bit much and put limits on how you wear your coat next year. If this is a favorite look of yours, then by all means go for it.

Choosing a traditional military color like khaki or army green is also a way to work the military trend on coats. If you opt for a short coat, consider a navy pea coat and work two trends at once. One additional stroke of luck for this idea is it will work for men and women.

Last but not least, you can work this trend with military-inspired accessories and footwear. Add some pins that have a military flavor to them to your lapel, or try a military-inspired hat or cap. Interesting boots with a distinct military feeling to them are also a nice idea.