The Utility Trend...

This year, the tired sigh of the military trend quickly turned into a gasp of fresh air, as we saw the likes of Balmain, Burberry Prorsum and Celine take military into a new direction. And with a new direction comes a new name ‘Utility’ is what this season is all about.

The new look is a modern twist on military, with less grunge and more masculine tailoring. The colour palette is of course neutral, but unlike the pretty and romantic style of the other trends, nudes are mixed with khaki and brown for a dirty, industrial effect.

On the catwalk, we saw simple seperates tied together with strong and edgy accessories. Celine showed us how its done at their S/S 2010 show, where layering was truly in effect. The only rule: more is more.

A key piece is the hard-working trench coat, but if you’re really daring, look to Burberry Prorsum for their revolutionary trench-dress. Meanwhile, if you’re going to work this trend properly, you need shorts. As a major key piece in other trends, they won’t be hard to find. Look for oversized pockets, drawstring waists, leather, suede, cargo, zips, buckles and most importantly, turned up hems! Or take inspiration from Loewe and roll those shorts up yourself.

Keep all other layers clean and simple; accessories are priority. Belts are definitely key, we’ve seen them tied, layered and wrapped around twice.
We’ve swapped our handbags for across-body bags, and our delicate heels for chunky wedges. Flat boots laced up to the knee are the casual alternative, like those at Jean Paul Gaultier. And this season we’ve left dainty jewelry behind, it’s all about tough cuffs and leather bangles.

For evening, Balmain have, once again, delivered something which heads straight to the top of our wish list, the embellished blazer. The sequined shoulders add glamour and carry the Utility trend effortlessly into evening.

But if you’re looking to wear Utility in the workplace, take inspiration from Chloe’s S/S 2010 collection, with a masculine tan linen suit.

We are loving this trend and joining the front line, as Utility is set to be the most popular trend this summer.