Ok, I’m super late on publishing this as it’s about “Fall Fashion Trends” but I wanted to anyways just because if you’re in-the-mil (for those that aren’t used to this phrase – “in the military”) it’s something I found interesting regardless of timing. Part of my goal here at Judy is to draw connections and point out the atypical parallels between the military and particular areas of interest, in this case, fashion.

I can’t help but notice all of the unrealized references to legendary military garments that have gone on to become these mainstays in everyone’s 2024-25 wardrobe. I was recently reading an article in Vogue about Fall 2024’s Color Trends, by Cortne Bonilla and it caught my attention that Army Green and True Brown were two of the forecasted viral colors to take over this Fall. This may seem obvious because it’s Fall (there were other colors mentioned and I’ll get to them at the end). But, this is a bit comical to someone like me (a Milso – again for those that aren’t accustomed, “Military Significant Other”) that is pretty much surrounded by these colors quite literally everyday. They may be having a moment, but the mil-community has been rocking them since…well, forever. Turns out, practicality and style sometimes march in lockstep. Although I’m surrounded by these shades, I’m excited to see them come to light and ready to flex some existing mil-inspired staples this season.

The Timeless Trench/Parka: Originally designed for the trenches—literally—this coat has transformed from uniform staple to everyone needs one now mentality.

I’m not sure anybody realizes the history of this coat as it was originally a practical military garment designed to protect soldiers in the trenches during World War I. And who do we think of when we hear timeless trench…Burberry. It was actually manufacturers like Burberry that stepped up to create these designs for the British soldiers.

As for something I’d buy today – Clyde Trench Coat, Sezane, $350

The Cargo Jacket: It’s been in every Milso’s closet at one point and if it hasn’t then we gotta get you one like now. I have a khaki version that I stole from my mom back when I could raid her closet on the reg. Never returned it. Today’s versions are perfectly fitted and full of pockets.

• Tna Recruit Jacket, Aritzia $148

Utility Boots: Sure, military boots are built for resilience, but the fashion world has reimagined them for runway and streetwear alike. Rugged, durable, and now an unexpected wardrobe essential that I for sure have always had.

• Elliot Combat Boot, Sam Edelman $180

The Bomber Jacket: Honestly, I don’t think this style is going to ever get old. I’m really loving old vintage versions of this if you can get your hands on one (see mine below). These seem to be a hot commodity at the thrift shops so thanks to all the vets and other oldies handing down their gear. If you’re going for a newer version then try to explore unique silhouettes in a hardy material that’ll last. Please please please don’t just grab the first flimsy nylon zip up with black ribbed trim that you see. There’s so many other options with pockets on pockets, mini zippers, and colored buttons if you really look.

Here are some options:

• Birrot Pink Love Bomber Jacket, $215 at Ssense

• Roots Seymour Flight Jacket $198

• J. Crew Flight Jacket in Italian Wool Blend $294.99

And here is myself with my great uncle’s bomber jacket. He was an F-4 Naval Aviator. I love it so much and wear it all winter long. People always ask where I got it, and I proudly say with a smile, it’s an heirloom.

Now, to talk about some materials for this season, corduroy, specifically BROWN corduroy:

• Levi’s Brown Baggy Dad Jeans, $100
• Cos, Curdoroy Midi Shirt Dress, $135
• Mango, Corduroy Collar Waxed Effect Oversize Jacket, $249

Other materials I’d go for include suede, wool, and shearling. These textures feel so so cozy this time of year, and add dimension to an outfit while elevating the look.

• Handmade oversized wool coat, Mango $229.99
• Suede penny loafers, J.Crew $228
• Marc Jacobs, The Teddy Mini Shoulder Bag, $206

Additionally, colors besides brown and green that were mentioned include a washed out pink, interesting pale blues, oxblood and screaming red. I actually really really like this palette and how it works/feels together. I find it different from the typical vision of Fall. And coming from somewhere, like I said, that is surrounded by green and brown on the daily, I lean more towards color and unexpected shades such as these. You could actually wear a lot of these together without it feeling overwhelming.

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