Blending in has never looked so stylish in these sporty yet chic camo-print outfits. Photo: Emporio Armani
Smart, sharp and radiating authority, the resurgence of military-inspired fashion is creating a buzz on some of the latest major catwalks.
In fact, even a few of the previous season’s shows featured looks with that army edge and ready-for-action style.
These iterations range from ornate French high-collared, burnished gold-buttoned uniforms resembling those from the days of Napoleon Bonaparte, camouflage outfits done the sporty way, to modernised military fashion for today’s fashion-conscious folk.
This take on the trend is eye-catching as it has elements of glamour, vintage and military functionality. Photo: BurberryOur top pick has to be the opening outfits from Prada’s Spring/Summer 2026 runway show.
They include short-sleeve military shirts paired with pleated pants in colours like navy and light blue, some worn with opera-length gloves, kitten heels and crocodile leather handbags.
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The contrast between formal and fancy is simply arresting.
Burberry’s take on the trend is eye-catching as it combines elements of high-shine glam, retro swagger and dare we say, army surplus?
The latter refers to the British brand’s distressed jacket in army green complete with shoulder epaulettes and flap pockets, with frayed edges that suggest a sense of heritage and history.
What makes it even more striking is that it is worn over a top consisting of golden squares that’s mismatched with check-print pants detailed with retro circular embellishments at the hem.
A luxury label with an artistic edge and a rebellious streak, Comme Des Garcons also takes the worn-out route with an army green jacket that looks as if the front part, buttons, buttonholes and all, has been carefully hacked clean off!
Battered but battle-ready in the ever-evolving fashion world.
Part of Emporio Armani’s collection includes sporty attire for men and women, all covered in camouflage print.
Comme Des Garcons goes combat chic with this ensemble that includes an army green jacket with a precisely severed front closure. Photo: HandoutThe high-performance sporting branch of Emporio Armani targets sports enthusiasts and professionals across seven disciplines namely training, tennis, basketball, motorsports, water sports, mountain sports and golf.
With camo print in its latest line-up, you’ll be blending in just to stand out!
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Designer Jonathan Anderson’s first collection for Dior, showcased recently, includes pieces that recall parade uni forms, inspired by the grand French military styles of old.
But they are given a modern twist, with touches of history and bits of deconstruction that combines the classic with the unconventional.
The looks take inspiration from 18th-century aristocratic and military grandeur, seen in the high-collared jackets and regal waistcoats, as well as 19th-century influences like stiff collars and bow ties.
While army gear is often easy to spot, few realise that the ubiquitous trench coat has its roots in the military. First designed for British officers during World War I, it was made to withstand wind, rain and war alike.
A durable, weatherproof companion in the trenches, hence the name.
Originally issued in khaki, Moschino’s version is in sandy beige, but faithful to the classic details like shoulder epaulettes and a “gun flap”, the extra panel once meant to cushion the impact against the shoulder when firing a rifle. Now that’s combat chic with a bang!
