Style - Ask Hope Robertson

Hope - I hear the military trend is going to be big this fall. Can you suggest some items I can buy to go along with it?

Dear readers, I love it when you ask questions and don't specify a budget. Seriously. I could go all Balmain on you and suggest a $12000 jacket, but I'll try to keep things — almost — realistic.

Military has been an acceptable style for almost four seasons now. This year during the Fall 2010 RTW shows, we saw subtle nods to the trend in collections from Dries Van Noten, Celine, and Burberry.

To translate the military trend into your personal Fall 2010 wardrobe, you don't really need a lot. You can infuse some style-savvy into your look with something as simple as a gold-tone button detailing and military green khaki pants. Read on!

• Luxe: Check these Christian Louboutin 'Loubout' wool peep-toe ankle boots. Available in khaki green or navy blue, these booties are total military. Covered in wool, these Louboutin booties pull on, have a 6-inch heel, and flirty peep-toe styling. And, in true Louboutin style, these booties wouldn't be complete without that signature red leather sole. They're a most-expensive military tribute priced at just more than $1000 CDN. If you can afford them, more power to you. Available at Saks.
• Splurge: Not everyone's budget affords them Christian Louboutin shoes, but that doesn't mean the every girl can't indulge in a little designer. I'm loving the Alexander McQueen diffusion line McQ. More youthful than his namesake designs, the McQ line features lots of denim and military-inspired coats like this short denim jacket. Like the Louboutin booties, this McQ jacket features frogging details (frogging = military uniform looped button fasteners), dark green stitching, and a high round neck. It's the perfect coverup to carry you into cooler weather. Originally $580, now $203. Available at TheOutNet.
• Budget: You can't go wrong with a little J.Crew. Always spot-on style, this fashion-forward retailer does the military trend terrifically in a classic everyday chino. The lean leg and relaxed fit look especially chic when you fold-over and scrunch the cuffs. Composed of comfortable cotton, these khaki pants will become mainstays in your closet. Trust me. This said by the girl who owns at least three pairs. J.Crew's everyday chino sits right on the waist, and features side pockets and back welt pockets. They're figure-flattering, and you can wear both at work and play. Find them in five colours (shown here in fatigue green) for $59.50. Available at J.Crew.