EQUESTRIENNE STYLE

There is something vigorously aristocratic about riding breeches and muddy riding boots.  Hermes even turned it into a theme for their Spring 2011 collection.

Hermes Spring 2011

I was wearing out my old knee highs, so I kept looking around for riding style boots with just a little bit more oomph.   I happened upon these riding boots with attitude -- laced up to the knee, metal zippers on either side of it, and sinewy seams along the back.  They are now an everyday favorite!  Skinny jeans and dresses take equal notice.  I walk with a bit of a swagger.

This is for those who enjoy a dose of humor with their outfit.

Rosegold Olwen boot

Pair them with skinny pants and a tailored, military-style jacket to feel the charge of the Cavalry

Derek Lam military jacket

Or give a structured tunic dress some edge.

Marc by Marc Jacobs, Fall 2008

Or simply throw on your puffy jacket.  I can see Alexa Chung wearing something like this, perhaps with her signature short shorts.

Moncler fur-hood jacket

The days get sunnier and warmer here in California.  So enjoy the boot weather before pedicure season.

MILITARY MANIA

Many spring fashion spreads showed the Military trend: Sgt. Pepper jackets and olive and khaki hues from top to bottom.

Cargo pants and flak jackets are a laid back interpretation.  If you want to go beyond that, here's a feminine twist on military mania:

Military Trend

• Keep to the olive or khaki color scheme
• Epaulets and brass buttons on the jacket keep with the theme; the belt defines the waist line
• The flared skirt is in contrast to the more fitted jacket.  This is a good camouflage trick for bottom-heavy ladies!
• The fur and brass detail on the halter top's neckline keeps the focus up on top.

Add color

If you are feeling too drab in olive, you can add a pop of color within the same family.  Here, I've shown a mustard-colored bag with gold closures and tassels.

Forward march!