Semper Fashionable

Good evening everyone. This is Oliver B. Styles, your destination for the best style tips. Tonight "The Fine Print is discussing self-defense. Well, I am here tonight to teach you how to defend yourself from tacky taste. Let’s get started.

The fashion trends of the last few years have been predominantly light … bright colors, skinny jeans, and makeup for all genders. One specific style that still rocks the runways in my eyes, and allows for a tougher image, is the military look. Everything from the officer overcoats to steel mesh undershirts, designers like Gauliter, McQueen, and Burberry are incorporating these staples into their lines. The question is how to take this look from the catwalk to the sidewalk. The key is to play down this look by infusing statement pieces with classic pieces for a simple effortless fashion creation.

The combat fashion style is often seen in coordinated with the gothic black boots and shoulder detailing on jackets. The bad boy form is a hot trend in guys’ fashion, especially the British grunge band look. Pairing ripped trousers or jeans with clean cut, pressed button up shirts and ties, military jackets with shorts and boots, or classic pants with cut off t-shirts are great combinations for someone looking to introduce these looks into their everyday wardrobe without going too far off their personal taste. Remember, subtly is everything.

And women there’s a military look for you. While I find that it looks better on the men, many military jackets and boots have been incorporated into women’s fashion. The cuts are shorter and more form-fitting than menswear, so you forget it’s military wear. But it is and it can look great … instead of going grunge with your military pieces, I say go elegant. Pair a military jacket with Parisian and bohemian styles … leggings, lots of bangles and your favorite studded Louboutins. Ooh maybe even add a red lip for pop, and just pull the hair back in a simple ponytail. Well, I guess there is a lot you can do with this look ladies.

And there you have it … defend yourself from tacky taste by arming your wardrobe with military wears. This has been your Fifth Avenue Neighborhood Watch Captain helping you take back the Catwalk. For more style tips follow me on Twitter @OliverBStyles. I’m waiting for you.

Here’s to style. Cheers!