Thursday, August 12, 2010

Marching Into Fall in Military Jackets

So you know my J.Crew Military Jacket?  I'm thinking you do, even if you just started following yesterday,  because it was in the outfit post.  I also wore it here and here.  And because I get so many compliments on the jacket - both here and when I'm out and about (it's so easy to throw on that it goes on errands very often thrown over even sweats) - I wanted to do some investigation and provide alternatives.  You see my jacket is from late last summer right around this time, and it is no longer available *insert sad face here*.  As far as military jackets go it was not terribly priced at, I believe, $98 (even though I know that seems a bit steep) because I have worn the thing well over 98 times.  In fact, I bet I've worn it 98 times in a month.

Anyway that's like salt in the wound, so my bad.

In an effort to ease your pain and help out with military jacket madness as we head into cooler weather (which some of us poor biznatches have not escaped much this summer holler if you hear me fellow Californians!) please find some options - in various price ranges - listed below.

Variety Military Jacket

 dear polyvore:  stop trying to push me over the edge.  from, carrie.

Let's do a Top Row/Bottom Row Price Comparison (Left to Right)
First 2 Jackets:  Top Row:  Elizabeth and James - Shrunken Surplus Jacket - $395
                                 Bottom Row:  Rag & Bone - Leigh Jacket - $475

Second 2 Jackets:  Top Row:  Juicy Couture - Skylar Twill Military Jacket - $298
                           Bottom Row:  Target - Xhilaration Juniors Military Jacket - $24.99

Third 2 Jackets:  Top Row:  Delia's - Ricki Military Jacket - $49.50
                               Bottom Row - American Eagle - AE Military Shirt Jacket - $49.50 

So basically here's my summary.  The first two jackets on the left are staples.  They are fabulous and you will keep them long after the trend is gone because they are not so trendy that you can't pull them out for seasons to come.  The second set....well color me happy on that cost comparison!  Oh yeah!  Put on your helmet in case you're getting lightheaded because this, girls, is what we call a STEAL OF A DEAL here at this free bird!!  The Juicy jacket will likely be more well-constructed and it will be cute, but it's pretty trendy.  If you can get your hands on the Xhilaration one, why not give it a try and see what's what??  For the amount it'll get worn you really can't go wrong.  And, finally, regarding the third set - those two would be the closest to the one I get compliments on.  The AE one in particular and it pains me to even admit that I guess the brain waves over at AE (she says dripping with sarcasm) must have saved a Martin+Osa designer to come up with the last jacket.  It is beautiful and wonderful and affordable and I'm considering it myself even though I swore I would never financially support that organization after they cut my right arm off just a couple weeks ago. Martin+Osa has been one of my best friends for the past 3 years...I digress.

I hope this helps in your journey for the perfect military jacket for fall.  I am convinced that polyvore lives to torture me or I would have included other options that give you a military flavor with a bit of sass and perhaps other color options like this beautiful jacket from Free People that has a feminine flair to it, this workshirt from J.Crew in the softest pink/taupe color, and this jersey jacket from Marc by Marc Jacobs.

Let me know your thoughts ladies.  I think most of us can agree we love the military jacket.  Perhaps your new friend is amongst one of these!

69 comments:

Unknown said...

Very good post indeed my dear.

Don't be jealous of summer. In Melbourne it only just hits 65F at Xmas and we get a few 120F in January.

My parents live in the tropics that's where it's at xx

this free bird said...

I'm zipping off to bed but wanted you to know I tried on the Rag & Bone and almost passed out. It's wonderful.

And now - please ask your parents to make way for a full grown adult.

xoxo,
Carrie

Diana Mieczan said...

I am so planning to get one this fall...Really love the second one:)...Btw: Thanks sweetie for your advice... I just got Canada Dry Ginger and I am so going to try the orange popsicles:) Kisses, darling:)

Unknown said...

Ooher. Is it making a comeback already? :)

Young at Heart said...

I think the Xhilaration one is really cute and a steal..........like you say, you may not want to wear it forever!!

k said...

i bought one in spring! which is weird...but i still luuuuvs it :)

Connie @ Sogni e Sorrisi said...

I love a good military jacket! And I bought one in spring, too--you're not alone Krystal.

LifestyleBohemia said...

LOVE your selections. My favorite is the one by Rag & Bones. I am definitely on the hunt for a military jacket for the Fall!

LyddieGal said...

I am definitely not tired of the military trend, I even have a free people jacket that is closest in resemblance to the first one - only it's thin and has cropped sleeves and now the AE jacket is looking terribly good.
I will try to be strong.

FarmGirl said...

Love all of them, but must say the first one stands out!

Pretty Pleased said...

My head has been swimming with all things military this season but your careful assessment brought it all into focus! I clearly need all of the jackets to salute Fall in style. As soon as I find a way to combat the creditors who will be coming after me.... Thanks for the inspiration!!
MC
www.prettypleasedblog.com

Jordan Cole said...

You read my post, I am craving a military jacket for the fall! Thanks for this! I love the AE one and the ideas of what to wear with it!

Kim@Chattafabulous said...

I love you for this post. I have worn the same military jacket for 4 years now and I have just about worn it out! I was worried about how I would replace it and you have solved my dilemma! Extra hugs for this one, Carrie!

Anonymous said...

My favorite is the Juicy jacket. xo

JMB said...

My favorite is the Target steal....I tend to like the cropped jackets better, that is - when I currently have no muffin top hahahahaha

Kate said...

Great post!! I am, on the hunt for one of these as well (though I suppose just about everyone is lately!) and am pumped to go take a look at that AE one! It was actually the one I liked best at first glance, and then I was thrilled to see it was AE (though I am def. not an AE fan in general) - my only complaint (upon closer inspection on the website) is the little fake patchwork/sitching thing going on on the front pocket and back shoulder. Whhhy do they need to make things look tattered? Still though, for the price, it's an awesome jacket! Thanks for sharing!!

Staley Mc said...

Love these! I have been searching for one and contemplating a purchase! These are great!

Lisa Griffin said...

My sister gave me a vintage military jacket in faded black for my college graduation and I can't even think how many times I've worn it!
p.s your sweet comment yesterday made my evening, mucho merci!!

Unknown said...

I actually think I need to make my way into AE soon (yes, it really pains me too since I haven't paid a visit since, like, 8th grade) and deal with the adolescent 'tude so I can pick up that jacket and perhaps a pair of army green cargo jeggings.

The kids working the register will probably think that I'm going hunting.

Lynzy said...

I am in love with the American Eagle jacket!
xo Lynzy
http://fromskirtstoskillets.blogspot.com

Closet Fashionista said...

Of course I like the most expensive ones best :p Especially the top left
http://aclosetfashionista.blogspot.com/

Annie said...

I know - I hate to say it, but I like the AE one the most!

Blair McLeod said...

i LOVE fall... obsessed with it really. good fashion like this is one of the many reasons why it is so great!

Lee Oliveira said...

Ohhh.. those military look jackets are so beautiful..
i got one for myself this winter here in Australia
(however i bought a men's one).. lol
LOx

and flowers pick themselves said...

i love this look, but it goes with nothing else i own. hmmm...

great post!

xo Alison

Nikki said...

I love these, and the key is to have them fit perfectly. I think I love the Target one best!


xx
Nikki

Jessica said...

I'm not even ashamed to admit that the AE jacket is my favorite. It's gorgeous! Thanks for feeding my out of control shopping addiction! haha

Discovery Street said...

i absolutely love this look...the middle one is my fave!

noone said...

this is a great post. i've been trying to find a militairy jacket but haven't found one that is fitting yet. still looking!

Sara said...

I like this military trend and have seen it coming out at J. Crew too! I will be adding a jacket to my wardrobe this fall!

xo,
Sara

Cafe Fashionista said...

I almost bought that Target Military Jacket a few weeks ago - utterly gorgeous! Sadly, most military jackets look HUGE on me - regardless of size. I believe this is one trend where stature plays a very large role. Perhaps I'll try it out again, though; after all, I must forward march into Fall fashion!! :P

the chirpy bird said...

the rag and bone is killing me... sigh
xo tash

Jamie said...

I actually have one that I got YEARS ago at Target of all places. It is so old now it can be considered vintage right? hahaha ;)

I actually do like the AE jacket the most and the Rag and Bone is pretty fab too!

http://www.glamlatte.com

Alicia Lund said...

Great picks Carrie! Luckily I already purchased my cargo jacket a few weeks back (JCrew)... I should probably do an outfit post in it! ;) And I didn't make my pie crust (maybe I'll try next time) so you can pull yourself off the street! haha

Abby said...

I like the first one on the top left!

Anonymous said...

Well now I need one! Need.

Bren said...

I have a couple that I bought at Old Navy of all places! But I love the color and shape of the E & J, and the Rag & Bone is amazing! My client has it, and the fabric is so comfy!! I love it with all my guts! lol! If you're considering a second one, get the R&B!

And I LOVED your comment on my mascara post! By the end, you had talked yourself into it! :D Going today to pick it up, and maybe some other stuff. ;)

xoxo,
Bren @ Chasing Beauty

Marie a la Mode said...

My favorites before I even looked at the prices were the two on the right! I'd buy them both - one with short arms, one with long ones if only we had these stores in Canada. (I get nervous shipping internationally!)

Poppies and Sunshine said...

Oh I can't wait for fall to wear jackets again! Well, I've been able to when I go to the coast, and I envy you for being able to be cold in the summer (even though I know you want some heat). I do like that second set. And that is an amazing deal! They seem to be almost identical too. I like how the Target collar is. Maybe I should get myself a military jacket!

xoxo

Sunshine and Summertime said...

I love this post! I actually have a "military" jacket I purchases at Target a few years ago...maybe it's time I dug it out of the closet again!

Marcie said...

Loooooooooooooooove!! Can you tell how enthusiastic I am? Now I just need to get one in army green.

xo,
M

Stacey said...

These are great. I love the Juicy!

kelli g. { bug miscellany } said...

another great post. i do love that A&E one...(please don't hurt me:P)

we haven't gotten much warmth here (washington) either, so my brain is already deeply entrenched in autumn. too bad it's gonna be 90 this weekend (where the heck did THAT come from?).

Valerie said...

I love all the options, Carrie. Your J Crew jacket from last year is perfect! So versatile and looks cute with everything. I love the Sanctuary one I just bought. I've been wearing it like it's my job (during summer months, no less-thank you Socal).

xo
Valerie

Unknown said...

Yup, I LOVE the first two. It never, ever fails. I will pick out the most expensive item in a lineup as the one I love. I guess this means I have good taste, but mainly it's just darn frustrating, since I can't afford it! XO!

Anonymous said...

AH SHIT I want 'em all. I actually really, really love the AE one... hm.

Kayla said...

I've been eyeing the Elizabeth and James jacket. I'm trying to wait to until I find it somewhere on sale.

Ramblings of a Small Town Girl

this free bird said...

carey-i'm on my way to the fair (sitting here w/leg elevated b/c i almost shaved my leg off in the shower. do you think a spider-man band-aid is appropriate. oy)

okay i'm lying. not about the leg, but about the fair. well only kind of. first i'm on my way to look at a bag i'm not allowed to get and then i'm going to the fair. eff. i think i'll consume 2 or 3 peach margaritas before the fair and after i don't get the bag.

anyway that is just a prime example of my conscience getting to me which is a good thing.

back to you. yes. that freaking ae is the mother of all mothers. $50 not bad? it might be a must have.

xo,
c

Oh, My Darling said...

Hooray for military-style jackets! Love the aesthetic.

TheOnlineStylist said...

Love me a military jacket and will be buying (a possibly cheapie one) this season. I cannot make do without one any longer. I also love the word biznatch. Please give this English woman a precise definition - as we like to be precise donch'a know. Am guessing a bee-yatch who's a bit narky? (Appreciate I may have intro'd you to two English words there but hey - I like to exchange with my gorgeous Americans xxx

J. said...

That first jacket might just change my whole outfit on life - well at least dressing for life haha. Either way that totally means I need it, right?

And, you know that I was a rockstar that the celebrity initals game!

http://jammer10am.blogspot.com/

Lady Grey said...

Fun post! My favourite is the Elizabeth & James.
oxo

Jen said...

I LOVE this coat trend and they're never ever going to go out of style!! Just wish this color would look good on me. It just looks too blah.

Happy Thursday Dear!!

jemina said...

Carrie I LOVE Military jacket, if only i lived in a 4 season country I'd swoop them all up, alas my only alternatives are either vests or very light jacket, or a shirt, btw, LOVE all of your picks, you have an amazing eye for style, Ah Maaaa Ziiinnggg :)), wishing you a fabulous day

BIG HUGS
Jemina xoxo

Jess said...

That Marc Jacobs one is perfection!!

Josie said...

Ummmmm. Is it weird that the Target one is totally my favorite? Ah, well. And on another note, I was planning basically this exact post for next week... Awkward, Carrie. Way to ruin my plans.
xo Josie
http://winksmilestyle.blogspot.com

megan chloe said...

love all of them!! i really like the bottom middle and the top right(: excellent finds!!

Lindsay With An "A" said...

Ok, I am LOVING your blog! So glad you visited mine because it allowed me to find yours. Love this post, and you've almost convinced me to buy one :)

http://lindsaylovesitall.blogspot.com

Lindsay With An "A" said...

P.S. I am SO a follower now! :)

Kristin Quinn said...

Thank you for finding me and I'm looking forward to following your blog!! Keep talking about Italy... I want to see it happen for you!

Leeann @ Join the Gossip said...

What?! I examined all of the jackets before I looked at the prices and I totally liked the Target one the best? I need that jacket. Did II say need? I mean NEED!!

I love the Rag & Bone one as well.

Thanks for sharing =)

Laetitia said...

I absolutely love this look!!!

xoxoxox

TASHA BANKS said...

MILITARY ALL THE WAY!!!!


THE MORE BATTERED AND BEATEN THE BETTER!!

http://noirxxxx.blogspot.com/

this free bird said...

I hear ya Tasha!! With you all the way!!

Kristen said...

I love that you picked a jacket from delia's. I'm such a delia's girl (what am i, sixteen?) and a few friends have pointed out to me, they long grew out of that phase. Umm their clothes are cool and cheap! what's not to love?!

All these coats are fabulous. Fun fall trend!

erica said...

I maaaaaaay have bought the first jacket..... I just absolutely loved it!!!! They're way too cute!!

xo

this free bird said...

FMF-just left you a msg, but YES!!! i can see why!!! tried it and damn near passed out myself! yippppppppeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeee for you lady!

Jessica said...

I kind of adore that AE one! I want to pair it with a short gold sequin party dress.

Lila said...

I love the American Eagle jacket especially for the price. Great to pair with jeans and a tee

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