Just in case enraged fashion designers attack ASU with lethal sewing needles and sequined swords, it’s good to know that this fall’s favorite look will keep ASU students prepared. The military-inspired jacket has been highlighted in London and Paris fashion weeks for the last few years, but it is just now gaining popularity in the states. This jacket is strong, classy, and much more stylish than armor.

The trademark of this look are the brass buttons in the front and the masculine pleating. There are usually added details, such as buttoned collars or embroidery, which are reminiscent of different military uniforms. The front is stitched to look like a breastplate of armor, topped with shoulder epaulettes and curved or buttoned collars.

It looks like a pea coat crossed with a 19th century, British minuteman. Sienna Miller, Katie Holmes, and Liv Tyler are just three of the many celebs known to sport this refined colder-weather necessity.

Nicole Tarasoff, an English literature senior, describes the jacket as “ a timeless look. You’re taking something uniform and traditionally masculine, and giving it a feminine shape, something softer and more wearable.” There are a variety of versions and styles, so almost anyone can find one that is personality fitting.

One version of the jacket gets its design from American Army uniforms. This jacket helps olive green make a comeback without bringing back tacky camo pants. It gives a rugged, tough twist to feminine apparel. The army version is lightweight with a lot of pockets and less buttons than the European version. This look is casual and usually worn with a T-shirt and jeans.

The bolder, European-influenced jacket is a bit more stylish and feminine. It has a rounded collar, more decoration and fewer pockets. It’s usually found in bold, regal colors like royal blue or blood red. Heather Hardon, psychology Alum, thinks the jacket is “unique and there’s really never been anything like it before.” Wear a short tailored cut, with elaborate buttons and decoration to give a fearless edge to your look. This type of jacket can be formal or casual, and goes with almost anything. ”It’s especially cute with a pair of skinny slacks and a simple blouse,” she says.

The jacket also comes in a knee-length, more sophisticated version that is a fashionable step up from a trench coat. It gives a flattering silhouette to most body types. “It’s ornate without being flashy, and the colors are muted without being totally drab,” Tarasoff says. This look has been popular on the runways, presented by designers such as Dolce and Gabbana, Marc Jacobs and Moschino.

Variations of the jacket can be found at Nordstrom’s, Urban Outfitters, Target and pretty much anywhere with a fall collection. Find one with details that are unique and self-expressive. “People are attracted to originality,” Hardon says. There are a ton of different modifications to the coat, but most are “classy and sexy without being overtly pretty,” as Tarasoff describes.

The military inspired jacket is a bold addition to any wardrobe, but it’s flattering and not just a passing fad. Just be careful what it’s paired with so it doesn’t look overdone. “If you wore it with baggy pants it would look weird. If you have too many layers on under it would look too bulky,” Hardon says. Tarasoff warns, “don’t make it into a costume.”

So, even if ASU doesn’t have any epic battles in it’s near future, try out this stylish jacket that puts other military uniforms to shame.

— kahavens@gmail.com