Ultilise This

Utility, modern military, soldier chic, call it what you want to call it, either way it’s a big trend for spring 2010. Taking note from the military trends of winter (think Balmain and Givenchy), for this season it’s a bit more subtle and definitely more relaxed. Less embellishment and less black, with more earthy tones, like khaki, gentle greys and taupe- esque browns. Designers such as Celine and Sportsmax brought the look to life for the season. Here is my take on Utility for spring/summer 2010.

Quilt Detailed Parka by A.P.C – The Parka, the most staple item to base your look around when channelling utility. This one by A.P.C fits the bill perfectly, its olive green colour is right on trend and the adjustable sleeves mean a ton of different looks.
Available at http://www.net-a-porter.com/ £285

Taupe Tomboy Tank by Sultan Wash – A tomboy tank is a great basic for any season but even better to add a first layer to your look in the earthy taupe shade.
Available at http://www.sultanwash.com/

Silk Satin Shirt by Elizabeth and James – A perfect example of the softer side of military for summer. Roll up the sleeves and loosen the buttons for a lazy look.
Available at http://www.net-a-porter.com/ £230

Denim Shorts by Erin Wasson x RVCA – Great Summer investments by Erin Wasson everybody needs to own a pair of the loose, Texas ready boy shorts.
Available at http://www.lagarconne.com/ £50 (on sale)

Dorado Boots by Frye – A personal fan of boots in the summer, a great alternative to the usual summer sandals. Stick to darker tones, but avoid black which can be a little to harsh under the sun.
Available at http://www.shopbop.com/ $498

Studded Belt by HTC – Gold complements the khaki influenced season and this studded belt looks fierce wrapped around the waist of the parka.
Available at http://www.net-a-porter.com/ £165

Suede PS1 bag by Proenza Schouler – The ultimate ‘it’ bag of the season, taking yet more inspiration from soldiers and their messenger bags, the PS1 is the bag to be seen with.
Available at http://www.net-a-porter.com/ £1560

Classic Raybans by Rayban – Instant California cool for everybody.
Available at http://www.net-a-porter.com/ £111

Stacked Rings in Gold and Rose Gold by House of Harlow – Simple and chic these rings stacked up add a touch of bohemian to the modern look.
Available at http://www.shoptrendboutique.com/ $23 each.

School Boy Error

Getting Butterflies on the first day of school? More like getting butterflies watching Philip Lim’s new Blazers flutter down the runway. I believe the blazer, just like the six inch heels and the little black dress, should be an absolute must in every girl’s new uniform.

Season after season they return to the runways, through the department stores and into our closets from Balmain’s fierce embellished shoulder pads, to Stella McCartney’s studio 54–esque little numbers, there is something for everybody. A blazer can add a number of things to ones ensemble, give you a better waistline, toughen up a girly dress, smarten up a plain t-shirt, define shoulders, not to mention hiding ‘last nights sins’ at the office. Above are some of the must have blazers out there, first day of school or not, get educated.

From top to bottom.

Philip Lim FALL 2010 black piped blazer – Straight from the runway, also available in baby blue, my favourite piece from the entire collection.

Stella McCartney shantung silk single breasted blazer – Think Miami vice, without the bad hair or bad one liner’s.

Balmain cotton canvas studded military blazer – As a self confessed Balmanic , this baby has a definite call to arms.

Elizabeth and James James twirl blazer – Affordable, chic and timeless, those Olsen girls can do no wrong.