Military jackets and coats are trending this season, which means that we’ll see more military inspired merchandise in stores than usual. But really, I’ve been wearing military inspired jackets every season for 20 years because I’m drawn to the look. I love uniforms! I can confidently say that the right military jacket is perfectly timeless.

You’ll find military jackets in both knits and wovens. The knitted version offers added comfort but lacks the crispness of its woven counterpart. I’m a woven gal at heart so I’m not attracted to knitted military styles, but they have their place. Knitted variations are instantly more casual and forgiving over the bust area.

I’m not seeing enough military-inspired jackets with revere, V-neck collars (like the one I wore at the Seattle get-together last year). This is a missed retail opportunity. Tailored, V-neck, single-breasted jacket silhouettes with military design features can work on most body types. But high- neck, double-breasted versions are harder to wear. I hope we see more mainstream styling come through. That way, anyone who likes military styling has a bash at wearing the look.

The budget babe recently wrote a great post on military jackets where she says:

“scoop up an affordable military jacket to spice up a simple t-shirt and jeans combo, or to toughen up a cute dress. I feel like these never go out of style as long as you stick to a clean design that isn’t too costumey”.

I wholeheartedly agree. Keep your military jacket or coat monotone and sophisticated. Avoid overly ornate embellishment for a timeless, chic edge. Very fab.

An assortment of both knitted and woven military jackets and coats. They look particularly gorgeous with jeans, which tone down the severity of the style. Remember that you can also leave them open. The vertical line that is created by leaving a jacket un-buttoned is very flattering.