Stand to Attention!

Military is a trend that's always about in some shape or fashion, whether it be brass button jackets, utility trousers, worker boots or anything khaki coloured. My favourite part of this trend is the elaborate jackets with gold trimming once worn by The Libertines.

When The Libertines released 'Don't Look Back into the Sun' during 2003, they wore red army style jackets in their video; soon becoming a massive trend amongst the indie music scene. Not only were the band highly successful musically, prompting a generation of Brit rock bands but they were also trend setters... we all remember Pete Doherty's bowler hat and skinny jeans!

However, if we go back 40 odd years to 1967 you'll discover that the Beatles 8th studio album 'Sgt. Pepper's Lonely Hearts Club Band' displayed these famous jackets for the first time.

Probably one of the most famous album covers ever and also one of my top 5 favourite albums, I love the Beatles =)

These days the military trend is more of a staple fashion statement rather than being worn solely by teenagers in a band. Almost everyone owns some sort of army jacket, whether it be a navy and gold emblazoned blazer or a khaki jacket with pockets a plenty. My personal favourite is the navy jacket with gold trimming a plenty!!

The AW07/08 collection from Aquascutum was maxed out on military, with pops of red amongst a sea of navy tailored jackets and dresses. I love this jacket and cape with the signature army gold tassels (do they have a proper name, those twirly bits because right now I can't remember)...

(The cape has given me an idea of how to style up my American Apparel version... more to follow soon I suspect)

This was followed by Balmain SS09 which was full of sharp jackets with exaggerated shoulders and tassel detail.

This season Balmain SS10 is full with more army style jackets but the emphasis is the khaki tones and matching fringe.

I love this 3.1 Phillip Lim military cardigan because you don't often see this trend in purple and silver, fantastic!

So, in an attempt to wear all the clothes I actually own and not stick to the same old outfits I rediscovered my military style cardigan.

Cardigan from ASOS
Floral skirt from H&M
Gold brouges from River Island

I bought the cardigan over a year ago and completely loved it but somehow it became lost in my wardrobe rotation. Fortunately I've found my love for it again and will definitely be wearing it more often. Me being me I'm wearing a floral skirt to make the outfit a bit more girly but I think I'll toughen the cardie up next time (not quite Cheryl Cole style though)!!

What do you guys think to army jackets, hit or miss? Or do you prefer denim / leather?

PS I watched Legally Blondes last night and it was BAD! You have been warned x