DIY Fashion: Make it your OWN

DIY Fashion: The Splatter-Paint Trend

By: Erica Domesek

This spring, we're seeing artisans and designers collide with splatter-paint fashions that range from shoes to apparel and accessories. So, in this edition of R29 DIY, I'm channeling my inner Jackson Pollock and paying homage to the late and great Alexander McQueen, and other designers such as Tory Burch and Proenza Schouler who recently showed collections during Fashion Week that painted smiles on our faces.

Reach into your closet to breathe some colorful new life into existing items with vibrant paint shades that scream I'm a Rebel (and a cool one!). Keep in mind, with this project, all imperfections are, in fact, perfect. The more random your strokes and splatters, the better!

The Inspiration: Above, from left: Alexander McQueen Paint Splattered Blucher Shoes, $795, available at Barneys New York; Proenza Schouler fall 2010 runway; Diesel Black Gold fall 2010 runway; Tory Burch fall 2010 runway.

Military Style, Fashion's friend for life.

3 Ways To Get Spring's Military Style Just Right

By: Christene Barberich & Piera Gelardi

Every few years a trend returns, and somehow, we don't know why, it feels fresher than ever. Such was the case last fall when we first saw the models stomping down Balmain's spring runway, and we knew military style was going to be big—but not in the same way it once was. Paired with embellished epaulets, skinny leather leggings, and the highest heels, Balmain proved classic military stylings could go beyond the typical blend-in hippie vibe and reveal a bold new brand of rebellion. Sexy, sophisticated, tough, coquettish, and back again, this spring's military style goes the distance, and so, we've rounded up our three top takes on the returning trend: Feminine, Classic, and Tough. Because many of you probably have an old favorite military jacket lurking somewhere in your closet, we're also sneaking in some shopping tips on how to give it your own renewed spin this spring.

1. Classic—With an emphasis on sharp tailoring and masculine lines, classic military style has a bold effect when you pair it with some skin or a really high heel. In the mix: Oversized button-down, tailored jacket, stiletto booties.



Above, from left: Rag & Bone runway looks courtesy of Rag & Bone; street style photo by Tamu McPherson/All The Pretty Birds; Golden Goose Tuxedo Button Down Shirt, $412, available at La Garçonne; Rag & Bone Zig Zag Pants, $290, available at La Garçonne; Giuseppe Zanotti Canvas Boots, $875, available at Net-A-Porter.

2. Feminine—From fitted cargo pants to a sweeping USO-style "army" dress, military's feminine take puts an emphasis on playful details and curvier silhouettes. In the mix: Vintage brooch, chunky necklace, skinny belts.



Above, from left: J. Crew spring lookbook image; Oscar de la Renta spring runway image courtesy of Oscar de la Renta; Nanette Lepore Ruffled Army Blouse, $278, available at Bergdorf Goodman; Lizzie Fortunato Jewels Faded Grandeur Necklace, $500, available at Charm & Chain; J. Crew Ripstop Cargo Pants, $39.99, available at J. Crew; Martin + Osa Skinny Belt, $59.50, available at Martin + Osa.


3. Tough—The heart-and-soul of Balmain's masterful collection, military's tough side is taps into a woman's confident, sexy side by mixing up some edgier basics. In the mix: Skinny leather jeans, heavy-duty boots, cropped cadet-style jacket.



Above, from left: Style photo via Lookbook.nu; Balmain spring 2010 runway shot courtesy of Balmain; Redopin Faux-Leather Leggings, $45, available at YesStyle;ASOS Military Safety Pin Brooch, $10.26, available at ASOS; T by Alexander Wang Stretch-Jersey Dress, $110, available at Net-A-Porter; Levi's Army Camo Jacket, $222.22, available at ASOS; Bess Studded Boots, $460, available at Net-A-Porter.


More Great Military Buys:

Mutnam Slim-Fit Cargo Pants, $62, available at YesStyle.
Alice + Olivia Distressed Skinny Leg Cargo Pants, $230, available at Nordstrom.
Diesel Army Green Dress, $79, available at Yoox.