Runway to Real Way

When the spring/summer 2010 ready-to-wear shows debuted last fall, I was more than ready to wear the entire Balmain military-inspired collection. The leather! The epaulets! The olive green! Sure, one half of me is all stilettos and champagne—but the other half is pure Lara Croft—so there is just something about soldiers…uh…camo, combat boots, and military styling that gets me. Attennnnnn-TION! Balmain’s S/S 2010 collection is where military meets civilian in the chicest (and sexiest) way possible.

So where my Balmain military tour comes to an abrupt end is when I remember it’s Balmain, and it’s expensive (and I’m sure I’m not the only one in that camp). But that’s the great thing about living in these times. There are scores of realistically-priced pieces available so you can unleash your inner G.I. Jane and not feel like a bomb just dropped when you open your credit card statement. And hey, you don’t even have to do the recon yourself. We’ve assembled a fantastic array of lower-priced items to help you build your military look now.

Go Shopping:

1. Topshop Washed Military Shirt, $55
2. Forever 21 Glam Jean Chain, $7.80
3. Super Trash Faux Leather Pants, $137
4. dELiA*s Dallas Military Blazer, $29.99
5. Old Navy Cuffed Twill Camp Shorts, $22.50
6. Nine West “Mouton” Sandals, $49.60
7. J Brand Chino Pant, $216
8. GUESS “Naemazza” Booties, $87.50
9. Cheap Monday Snake Cutout Tank, $30
10. Wet Seal Rib Tank Top (Style #: 42302841), $6.50
11. Alloy “Kena” Aviator Sunglasses, $10.90
12. Dollhouse “KENNEDY” Lace-Up Ankle Boots, $34.99
13. Juicy Couture Military Shirt Jacket, $198
14. ASOS Leather Power Shoulder Blazer, $102.56
15. Wet Seal Military Crop Jacket (Style #: 41915943), $26.50

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