Your marching orders for fall? Check out the military trend! These uniform-inspired, polished looks from designers such as Victoria Beckham and Jason Wu are everywhere. Cargo pants, lace up boots, brass buttons, navy, khaki, epaulets…they keep coming round and round and this fall they’re out in full force.
Now here’s the trick to tastefully wearing the Military look after 40, or at any age for that matter. You need to be subtle. Don’t wear lots of military details all at once, or head to toe or you risk looking like you are wearing a Halloween costume. Here’s a few Military inspired fashion finds you can mix and match into your wardrobe that we think would look Fabulous after 40.
| Ten- hut!Sometimes this Army green color can be dull as dishwater but this Jones New York Military Jacket has a lot of punch. It’s a warmer, richer green and it commands attention especially when paired with this feminine gold blouse, camel pants and saucy leather bow tied belt. (From Jones NY) |  |
| Military goes MustardIf army green isn’t your style, try a tailored, classic pea coat in any shade that makes you look wow. Crisp, tailored looks like this are sporty and youthful after 40. This one, from Ted Baker, happens to be in luxurious cashmere! (Get yours now before it goes, from Nordstrom) |
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| Command the Troops! (and feel cozy doing it)You get tired of pants, pants pants all winter long, so what else do you wear when you want to be casual, but classy too? This Michael Kors Sweater dress is the answer.We’ll let you in on a secret… The gigantic neck warmer with official looking military buckles is removable, revealing a cute rib trim V-neck dress. Pair it with tights, flat boots and possibly some Spanx too if you need it, and you have relaxed style. (Saks has this in stock NOW) |  |
| This silky blouse gets the Military Salute!Here’s a classic top with an elegant twist. Zippers and shoulder epaulets combined with 3/4 length sleeves make this silk blouse from Theory a wardrobe staple for fall. This would look great paired with some brightly colored jeans in mustard, wine, rust, etc. (Available for a limited time at Saks) |  |
| A Boot for the TroopsTroops of women that is.. This gorgeous Isolia Alia Tall Boot is pure military chic. Buckle up for this one. You are going to be blown away by all the compliments you will get, fashionista. (Snap a pair up before they are gone from Nordstrom) |  |
| Captain’s Choice Here’s a handsome spin on an Admiral style coat. This refined wool officer’s jacket is cool and classic, the perfect coat, even for landlubbers. (Don’t miss getting your hand on this beauty from JCrew) |  |
| Do you like the military look or is it too masculine for you? Send us a photo of you in this look and we’ll post it on our website. Everyone would love to see someone who looks fab in this look! | |
Style Expert Deborah Boland specializes in helping mature women to Tweak their Chic®!
I think military can be very tough to wear over 40, especially anything with double breasted buttons. For those of us who are short, chesty or wider menopause waisted, the double breast buttons widen and shorten the whole thing and give you no waistline. I do like an Army drag green as a neutral color, however, and think it’s easy to mix with a wide variety of colors. The sweater dress is something I would pick, (and yes with my Spanx leggings or undergarment), but lately I’ve noticed the heat factor is a bit too much for me in a sweater dress, especially with a cowl or mock turtle.
Debra
I think the military inspiration is not always easy to wear for women over let’s say 30. Yet it’s possible as long as the whole look is softened by a touch of femininity. Accessorizing is then important. I would definitely wear a “military” coat or blouse WITH A SCARF (…if I was not living in Florida!).
All the best,
Anne