American Military Fashion, Part 3: Your Style

Runway fashion is meant to be inspirational, but it's not necessarily practical. None of those women are going to central market, picking their kids up from school and running them to practice... those women aren't at home watching Netflix or going from office meetings to downtown mixers.  But we can pull from those influences and find realistic ways to interpret them in your personal style and daily life by adding small touches to your wardrobe.  Here are my "must have" suggestions, with great ways how to style them, and a few extra ideas to get you inspired.

MILITARY MUST HAVES:

Item #1:  The Military Jacket

Available at Sophie Stargazer Boutique, (1) Luxe Safari Jacket (2) Camo Patch Jacket

Whether you go with a bold camo print, or a softly draped jacket, this piece of outerwear is at the top of my list for a must-have military influence.  Spring is a crazy time of year - it can be rainy and cold and switch to sunny and bright in a matter of moments, and you shouldn't be caught without a jacket this season.  I recommend going for something light-weight, that you wont mind leaving on when the rain breaks, and that isn't bulky to carry around if you can't take it anymore.

Keep these pieces looking seasonally appropriate by pairing with creamy whites and bright blues, and save your black denim for autumn.

Item #2:  Soft Army Pants

Available at Sophie Stargazer Boutique, (1) O'Connor Jogger in Magnet (2) Linen Cargo in Pickle

Whether you go for modern joggers or a more traditional cargo pant, make sure you have at least 1 pair of Spring weight army pants.  These are going to be your go-to pants for the days when you give your denim a break, but treat them just like you would any other neutral item.  You can never go wrong with pairing neutrals together, but let's again keep it on the lighter side - think creams and blushes.  Or completely forget that army green is green, and pair with other spring trends like lilac and florals.  Each of these options gives you a feminine look, that's a little softer for spring.  (Dont' worry, we'll add your navy and charcoal back with these in the Fall)

Item #3:  Something Short

Available at Sophie Stargazer Boutique, (1) Tulip Short in Leaf (2) Marra Shirt Dress
 

Your choice:  are you going to go with a structured mini skirt, a flattering pair of shorts or a dress that's above the knee.  Come on - I dare you!  The first two are easy but I bet you can add just one more something amazing to change it up.  After all - summer gets hot and there will be days when you just want to give your legs a breather.  Come on.  I believe in you!

Item #4:  Something Casual

Available at Sophie Stargazer Boutique, (1) Camo Crew in Snow Bunnie (2) Camo Fleece Hoodie

This is your army influence for grab and go - that sweater you  pull on over your yoga outfit, that tee you throw on to go pick up the kids, or even cozy joggers or pjs you wear around the house (and then accidentally photograph in your Instagram story...).  Add one item here, and you'll never have to feel embarrassed when your spotted on the go.

Item #5:  An Accessory of Your Choice

Available at Sophie Stargazer Boutique, (1) Tie Dye Coobie in Camo (2) Date Watch in Army.

Maybe it's a green cotton wristlet or a camo print bag.  Maybe it's just a military-inspired bracelet or pair of earrings.  Maybe it's your hair ties.  Find just one tiny moment in your accessories world to bring in one piece of military.  THIS is the item you'll now add to your looks when your military influence is missing.  Ready to go but need a necklace?  Easy on trend, coming right up.

TIP:  How to accessorize

When wearing army, it's best to stay away from those head-to-toe looks.  Just pick ONE of these items to wear at any given time (two if you're a true fashionista and braver than I am!).  Keep your coordinating pieces light and bright, focus on flowing fabrics, and go with brown and blush leathers over black.   Every look should say it's definitely spring.  When wearing camo print, go easy on the jewelry - light hand-hammered pieces in silver or gold and delicate necklaces will always look best when there's a bold print taking the focus - statement necklaces and earrings can overwhelm your look and prevent YOUR beautiful self from shining through.  And most of all - be YOU!  Have fun with fashion, and find the ways to embrace trends in ways that speak to your personal style and everyday life.  Being on trend does not have to be fleeting or fake - but it's always exciting to embrace something new!

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