Of Jackets and scarves

CEBU, Philippines - Fashion has already gotten the colder months covered and it’s really no surprise why the peak months of October, November, and December aren’t just the main concern of food industry. Although we may still be getting whiffs of warm weather here and there, it wouldn’t do much harm to start stocking up our closets with duds and accessories that are fashion’s gift for the chills and frills of the upcoming holiday season.

While the usual hooded jackets and school teacher-ish cardigans may already have had their life spans stretched too much, we’re about to see a fresh twist and a welcome revival to the cold weather classics of knits, cover-ups, and yes, the beloved and can’t-do-without jackets.

This time however, we’re going for a more luxe and attention-grabbing look that’s bound to blow away any cold weather fashion blues that OND is slightly guilty of. The two OND trends for this season are really more of polar opposites with one coming from a stiff and strict inspiration and the other springing from a more whimsical and fun pop.

Military Luxe

The colder months never fail to bring to mind snow—lots of it. And really, when I think of snow, I think of Siberia and Russian soldiers donning thick woolly capes and cover-ups to keep the cold at bay. 

The military jacket took its inspiration from the nutcracker-ish look of the Russian troops during the time of the great czars and czarinas. Metallic ornaments in tarnished gold and muted silver draw the look away from the gloom that the darker dominant hues seem to convey. Ornate trims set off the stiffness of the look, making it more flexible, wearable, and tres chic along with a favorite pair of jeans.

With a little bit of imagination, the military jacket can be taken from rock chic to bohemian luxe. Pair up a chunky military jacket with sleek leggings, killer heels, and a killer attitude and seriously, you’re on your way to world domination.

Knits and Knots

I love the fact that fashion is leaning more towards the extremes nowadays with just-in-between statements simply not making the cut. The same goes for this favorite holiday accessory.

Knits are usually worn as negligible little scarves that are more functional than fashionable. Not anymore. Knits haven’t just been upgraded to a major statement accessory, but big, chunky knits in bold pops of color are the key to making the holidays brighter. Take the cue from the Topshop runways with larger-than-life knit scarves and funky knit jumpers rocking the runway.