I've just finished combing through the March issue of Vogue and I must say that it did not disappoint. I thoroughly enjoyed reading and reviewing everything from the feature on somewhat unexpected cover girl, Tina Fey, to Alexander Wang's MOD (model off-duty) style inspiration, to the "Military Issue" fashion spread shot by Mario Testino.

The twelve page spread featuring utilitarian basics of the spring season including trench coats, safari-style button down shirts, military-themed jackets and cargo pants reminded me of a recent post on Garance Doré's blog titled "Khaki is the New Black."

A khaki color palette works well with many complexions as it includes a range of hues from beige to olive to brownish. Though I'm not quite ready to trade in my predominately white/grey/black wardrobe, I am definitely inspired to incorporate a few khaki pieces for spring. I love how the subject of Doré's post mixes khaki AND black - now that's a compromise I can agree with!

This khaki craze is reiterated in Vogue's take on styling the reoccurring military theme. By pairing more masculine, structured pieces with decidedly feminine silhouettes, fabrics and details, Vogue keeps the look modern, fresh and perfect for spring! Below is Vogue's March 2010 multi-page "Military Issue" fashion spread:

Standout surplus-style pieces from the spread include a Balmain cavalry jacket with fringed epaulets and braided cord details (image 4), Burberry Prorsum cashmere V-neck sweater with gathered sleeves and washed-chiffon skirt (far left of image 5), Comme des Garçons asymmetrical cropped moss wool jacket (image 7) and Alexander Wang peep-toe ankle boots (images 11 &12.)

Will you be sporting khaki military basics this spring?

xxKP

The Haute Couture Spring/Summer 2010 shows commenced this past Sunday the 24th in Paris with Josephus Thimister and will end on Wednesday the 27th with Valentino. The French term Haute Couture literally means "high sewing" and refers to custom-made clothing created using the highest quality fabrics and sewn with considerable attention to detail. The bespoke clothing often features very time-consuming embellishments done by hand.

The historically Parisian tradition of Haute Couture is a tradition that is highly guarded by the French. According to French law originating in 1945, to be considered a legitimate House of Haute Couture, designers must meet a number of criteria including designing made-to-order for private clients with one or more fittings, having an atelier (workshop) in Paris with a minimum of 15 full-time employees, and presenting a collection twice a year to the Paris press with at least 35 exits consisting of both daytime and evening looks.

To be accepted as a Haute Couture House and to be invited to present during the Haute Couture shows in Paris is regarded as the most exclusive accolade a clothier can receive in the world of fashion.