Vogue a Trois: Camouflage Cool

Posted on October 28, 2013, 8:00 am
5 mins

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Camouflage Cool

This fall, military-inspired clothing has found its way once again onto the list of staples that keep a wardrobe modern and current. You needn’t look like you are signing up for duty in order to rock the military look; it is a matter of finding a piece of substantial personality and doing it justice. I, for one, like a subtler pattern of camouflage, but that doesn’t mean I don’t want it to be the major scene-stealer of my attire. You don’t have to be demure about this look to make it work; whether it is a peacoat, combat style boots, a camo accessory or military green color, it has both edge and traditional appeal.

You can find a la guerre inspiration in everything from shoes to dresses, from Zara to Fashion Week runways. Designer Prabal Gurung’s Fall 2013 surprised many with the departure from his romantic looks of the past. With a decidedly tougher approach, Gurung showed double-breasted style coats with peplums, buckles and steel heels. Military green and blue were prevalent in the collection. Gurung says he was inspired by Ukraine’s Asgarda tribe, where women are trained in martial arts and empowered to fight against gender inequality. His tough-chic approach still holds a feminine vibe that appeals to a wide audience.

This week I have chosen an item that is a combination of two of my favorite trends for fall: leather and camouflage. Rag & bone’s Desert Camo Leather Jean are the ultimate in cool girl attire.

 

Camouflage Cool

 

This first combination is a mix of street style pieces mixed with tradition. The Jeffery Campbell Archer faux snakeskin embossed black boot has great details, like the gunmetal heel and accents. Wear the cozy J Crew Collection silk & mohair sweater underneath the “knock your socks off” Burberry Rainwear Trench in a red that is sure to chase away the winter blues. Top it off with a slouch wool hat, like this cozy and super chic Aritzia TNA Alps hat. And I am a huge fan of Tom Ford Beauty lipstick. It lasts and lasts and the sexy Cherry Lush is the perfect pop for your pucker.

 

camouflage cool #2
At the Independent Fashion Designers Runway Show this fall I had the opportunity to see some of the best Northwest-based designers show their lines, and one of the standouts was Paychi Guh, who won one of the two runner-up prizes awarded that evening. Her cashmere line of everyday luxury pieces are stellar. The Everyday Scoop in Pear is gorgeous with the leather pants. Adding Valentino’s Rockstud Camo Crystal Slingback Pumps brings the chic factor up a notch. I chose to layer necklaces with Marc by Marc Jacobs funky little Olive cameo, the Tory Burch Winslow Logo Rosary necklace and a Topshop Padlock gold chunky necklace. Rebecca Minkoff’s Mini M.A.C. crossbody clutch has a great spot of color that plays well off the cashmere sweater and pumps.
Camouflage Cool #3

 

For a more laid back look that still has plenty of attitude, wear the Madewell Linen Brimfield Tee in grey colorblock, and add a cozy Autumn Cashmere black hoodie if you are headed out and about. I searched Paris with my friend Monica for the best platform sneaker without the Isabel Marant price tag and found these Ash Alex Sneakers there. They are super comfy and cool and go well with the ASOS leather baseball cap (also one of my favorites, thank you Anna Shortley). This Anne Klein large faced black watch will keep you on time and on trend. And I love camouflage and leopard together; it’s a match made in heaven. The Juicy Couture Robertson Mini Steffy will look great whether you are headed to the big game or Saturday errands.

I love the element of surprise of an outfit that goes against convention, yet just works. Mixing of pieces—like a military style paired with another print that isn’t necessarily traditional—is a great way to show your creativity and style.

Lisa Cole is the fashion and style writer for Vanguard Seattle, and her work includes covering fashion news and events, runway shows and boutiques. She has her own fashion and lifestyle blog, www.westfultonstreet.com, and is a member of Independent Fashion Bloggers and Fashion Group International.