Spring 2015 Trend: Ranger School

From Michael Jackson's slew of slim-fitting jackets to Olivier Rousteing's Balmain Army, the fashion industry tends to look to military uniforms for inspiration. This spring, however, this seemingly masculine fad has received a feminine make-over. If the pepto pink background wasn't enough of an indication, Marc Jacobs's collection of voluminous skirts and structured duster coats, all of which adorned with oversized gold buttons, was a telltale sign that army chic would veer ladylike this season. For Sacai designer Chitose Abe, the secret to embracing this season's troop motif was infusing feminine textiles: sheer paneling and floral prints were mixed with a traditional olive green that is militia-ready. While some designers opted for girly shapes and fabrics, others used shorter hemlines to give the classic uniform a ladylike twist. When it comes to designing masculine-inspired pieces for the modern day woman, No. 21's Alessandro Dell' Acqua used accessories to give each look a modern, yet girly, flair. With the help of pretty canary shoes and a belt to cinch the waist, dress that could've doubled as a shirt for a boy scout was fit for a lady. Craving a sexier alternative to this trend? Rag & Bone's Marcus Wainwright and David Neville offered the perfect solution. A bomber vest and up-to-there shorts are key ingredients for a daring summer getup. But if you're searching for an ultra glamorous way to sport this trend, look no further than Ralph Lauren's show. Whether paired with bright, silky tops or loads of jewels, the New York designer proved that military garb is just as suited for the runway as it is the battlefields.

Marc Jacobs Look 3 

Sacai Look 38

No.21 Look 1



Rag & Bone Look 26

Ralph Lauren Look

1. Acne Studios 2. Zara 3. Manolo Blahnik 4. Karen Millen 5. Marc Jacobs 6. Band of Outsiders 7. J.Crew

Becoming an excellent soldier, let alone deeming yourself worthy of a Purple Heart, requires strength, courage, intuition and patriotism. Fortunately, sporting an army-inspired ensemble is much easier. Though unearthening your fitted military jacket is an easy, and economical, way to participate in the fad, there are many pretty pieces to feast your eyes on this spring. And from elongated vests to tailored shorts, this trend will appease any style savant's wallet. While you may be wary about this sartorial phenomenon, finding a flattering and feminine way to wear this trend is easy.  Cursed with a complexion that repels earthy neutrals such as khaki and olive green? Opt for a tailored piece in a subdued navy or black. Let's also not forget that there's a fine between a stylish, sophisticated ranger and childhood scout affiliate. Juxtapose your rough and tough apparel with luxe,feminine accessories: a sleek pump or extravagant pearl earring is a surefire way to up the sartorial ante.

Will you be joining the fashion forces this spring? Sound off below!

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Fall 2014 Trend: Shear(ling) Madness

Though this summer was more tame than its heatwave-worthy predecessors, a notable shift from flouncy dresses to loads of layers is underway. And if last year's Polar Vortex is any indication of the season to come, we are in for a long, frigid winter. How will any style savant stay warm and au courant this season? Luckily, fall's biggest trends are (somewhat) blizzard friendly.

Welcome to the Fall 2014 trend guide. As always, each week highlights  a major trend for Fall/Winter 2014 and how you can get the look. So let's get started, shall we?

Admit it: the biggest trends are not always practical for the every day. However, some of the industry's hottest designers have given us just what we instinctively want for winter: a warm and cozy coat. Luckily, the basic necessity get a little dramatic this season with loads of shearling.

While some brands such as Altuzarra took a minimalist approach to this trend, the majority was in favor of maximalism. Miuccia Prada's sheeny fabrics and vivid color palettes act as the poster child for this phenomenon- the perfect blend between a wearable coat and a high-octane piece. If you're truly looking to make a sartorial splash, Akris's Creative Director Albert Kriemler brought this trend to the next level with an unapologetically textured coat. Looking for lots of shearling with a subdued color palette? Sacai's thick, textured lapel completely fits the bill. And calling all cool girls: Coach's collection of cropped, shearling-clad jackets are sure to be your staple this season. Streamlined, ostentatious, or something in between, there's at least one to swoon over.

Altuzarra Look 26

Prada Look 11

Akris Look 5

Sacai Look 34

Coach Look 7

The million dollar question: how do you rock this trend without looking like a glorified yetti? While adding a shearling bag to any ensemble may the easiest way to embrace this phenomenon, it would be a major mistake not to experiment with one of the market's crazy coats. From a subtle collar to courageous fuzz, there are so many options on the market that you are bond to fall in love with at least one piece. But just because you're amplifying your look's texture doesn't mean you can't also play with volume. A wide leg trouser with a frills-filled coat or pleated skirt with a lined bomber are great choices. However, if you have a penchant for accessories, there are some amazing bags and shoes to choose from as well. Instead of bringing your outdoorsy spirit to the sartorial limelight, opt for textured,minimalist pieces--a crisp tote or streamlined booties are ideal.

1. Chloé 2. Loeffler Randall 3. Acne Studios 4. Altuzarra 5. Miu Miu 6. Opening Ceremony 7. Jeffrey Campbell 8. MSGM 9. Wendee Ou

Are you ready to rock some shearling this winter? Sound off below!

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