Medal of Honor: 70's Karl Lagerfeld

Fall Winter 2011 -- Maltese Crosses; Militaristic Embellishments

Karl Lagerfeld Scarf Print Set with Metallic Quilted Skirt

Versace Fall Winter 2011 Print Ad

In an extension of the Byzantine Trend that was explored in the Fall of 2010, this season the au courant adornment is the gold maltese cross, or any military inspired brooch, belt buckle, or print motif. The Maltese Cross was introduced into costume jewelry when, notably, Italian jeweler Fulco di Verdura set the Maltese Cross into a cuff for Coco Chanel when he was designing her costume jewelry collection. 

Versace worked the gold crests into the hardware that added a glam toughness to the collection, and there is further evidence that this style will be going strong well into Spring, if the looks at Balmain are any indication.

Balmain Spring 2012

Medal-Worthy Military Pieces at Vnyc

Military influences cycle thru the fashion system practically every other season and are often the victim of uninspired designs at the hands of fast-fashion chains. Avoid taking the literal approach & look for pieces subtly inflected with military references.

80's Thierry Mugler Cropped Peplum Jacket-$218

Marni Tiered Waist Camo Skirt-$114

90's Yves Saint Laurent Re-Issued Safari Dress-$242