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.

Obey Thy Sultan

Peasant chic at its best, I introduce you to Sultan Wash inspired from the uniforms of Chinese military, created by Jeremy Sultan. Sultan Wash shows us what dressing like a red blooded Parisian is really about. The attention to detail in every piece is exquisite from the frail creases in the collars of the shirts, to the delicate wash of soothing earth tones that run through every stitch of the 100% all natural fabrics.

What makes Sultan Wash so special for me is that I could easily see every piece draping on from a French washing line from one flower bedded apartment window to another, in a quiet Paris alley building. The collection is filled with the dopest utility jackets, body touch tanks and silhouette perfect knitwear, classic, simple and light I dare you not to adore. Pull a studded belt around the Parker and fingerless knitted gloves on your hands and your good to walk the St Germain.

Wearing Sultan Wash feels like climbing out of bed and into your boyfriends clothes instantly dressed, instantly irresistible and instantly out the door.