Some call it the Michael Jackson jacket from when the singer stepped out in his patent red one in the 1980s. Some simply call it an ‘army style’ coat. The military jacket, with its trademark button detailing down both sides of the opening  is tipped to be a big trend this autumn.

The look hit the runway in Paris and Milan in their autumn of 2009. With India a season behind, it has just now hit our shores. Designers don’t seem worried though, as they feel the look has always been popular. “Some trends tend to burn out over the years, but the women’s military fashion trend isn’t going anywhere,” says designer Ritu Beri whose collection at the March 2010 fashion week had plenty of military jackets as a tribute to the army. And it has now hit the markets and malls of Delhi.

What is military fashion?
Military fashion apparel ranges from belts and shoes to even dresses. The look features bold brass buttons and double-breasted tailoring, often found in classic colours such as khaki, black, cream, or navy. Designer Nida Mahmood says, “Big metallic buttons and accent-uated shoulders with padding will be trendy this season.” Beri adds, “Any outfit can be given the military feel and impact by adding the military colour, print, medallions and military accessories such as badges, medal tapes, ornate trims and gold piping.”

Style check
Some advise caution in copying the trend blindly. “The dull tones of military apparels may not work well for the Indian skin tone. Cropped military jackets with three quarter sleeves are trendy but it may not be flattering for everyone. Lean bodies carry the military look best,” explains designer Masaba. “Team your military jacket with denims, skirts, short dresses and even maxis. Girls must have a military variation in their wardrobe this season. But make sure it has a masculine silhouette but a feminine flow,” adds Mahmood.