How fashion girls are styling the military jacket again

Lately, I keep hearing the advice: Never throw out your clothes—trends always come back. Alas, imagine my disappointment when Dua Lipa signed off on the return of a millennial classic, the military jacket, right after I gave away mine—all navy, gold-embellished, sharp-shouldered, and very much of its time.

The style first surged in the 2000s thanks to a mix of runway influence—think Christophe Decarnin’s Balmain era, particularly the ornate, hussar-inspired jackets of 2009—and indie-sleaze celebrity style. A-listers like Beyoncé, Rihanna, and Kate Moss embraced the commander-in-style look, turning Balmain’s military jackets into fashion’s chicest marching band.

Fast-forward to 2026, and the trend has made a comeback on both runways and streets. From heritage houses like Alexander McQueen and Ralph Lauren to contemporary designers such as Zimmermann and Ann Demeulemeester, the military jacket is on the catwalk once again, with each brand offering its own interpretation. Zimmermann approached it with an indie-boho sensibility, while Ralph Lauren presented a more refined, elegant take—a nod to classic equestrian tailoring. Below, discover our curated guide to styling (and shopping) the military jacket trend.

Commander in Style

Commander in Style , Off-Duty , Utility, But Make it Elevated , Understated Command , Sharp Yet Effortless , Why Trust ELLE

Street Style - Paris Fashion Week - Womenswear Spring Summer 2026 - Day One

With spring on the horizon, a military jacket makes the ultimate transitional statement. Structured enough for that lingering winter chill, try pairing yours with shorts and knee-high boots for the indie sleaze vibe Kate Moss helped define.

Commander in Style , Off-Duty , Utility, But Make it Elevated , Understated Command , Sharp Yet Effortless , Why Trust ELLE

Off-Duty

Commander in Style , Off-Duty , Utility, But Make it Elevated , Understated Command , Sharp Yet Effortless , Why Trust ELLE

Street Style At Copenhagen Fashion Week SS26 - Day 4

Though rooted in rigid tailoring, the military jacket takes on a cool downtown edge when paired with jeans. Consider this your inspiration for a city stroll—coffee in one hand, sunnies in the other—while channeling a little McQueen attitude.

Commander in Style , Off-Duty , Utility, But Make it Elevated , Understated Command , Sharp Yet Effortless , Why Trust ELLE

Utility, But Make it Elevated

Commander in Style , Off-Duty , Utility, But Make it Elevated , Understated Command , Sharp Yet Effortless , Why Trust ELLE

Street Style - Paris Fashion Week - Womenswear Spring/Summer 2025 - Day Six

An army green jacket is a timeless take on the trend. As modern women juggle busier schedules, utilitarian dressing feels more relevant than ever. Layer this neutral over a business-casual look, and you’re ready to go straight from the office to after-work drinks.

Commander in Style , Off-Duty , Utility, But Make it Elevated , Understated Command , Sharp Yet Effortless , Why Trust ELLE

Understated Command

Commander in Style , Off-Duty , Utility, But Make it Elevated , Understated Command , Sharp Yet Effortless , Why Trust ELLE

Street Style - February 2025 New York Fashion Week

With its gold detailing and oversized silhouette, the military-inspired peacoat feels undeniably sophisticated. The result? Less uniform, more uptown chic. If your style leans minimalist, this piece is the perfect fit.

Commander in Style , Off-Duty , Utility, But Make it Elevated , Understated Command , Sharp Yet Effortless , Why Trust ELLE

Sharp Yet Effortless

Commander in Style , Off-Duty , Utility, But Make it Elevated , Understated Command , Sharp Yet Effortless , Why Trust ELLE

Street Style - February 2024 - New York Fashion Week

This cropped rendition adds instant structure to an otherwise relaxed denim look—proof that a little tailoring can go a long way.

Commander in Style , Off-Duty , Utility, But Make it Elevated , Understated Command , Sharp Yet Effortless , Why Trust ELLE

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