Women's military: key fashion trends of the season

Pinafore, £585, shirt, £250, both Maxmara (0207 518 8010)
Maxmara led the military advance for A/W12. Adopt an epaulet, a gold button or simply invest in a navy peacoat or khaki pinafore to embrace this season's utilitarian style
Photographer: Kevin Foord
Fashion editors: Jo Jones and Helen Seamons
Hair and make-up: Juliana Sergot
Models: Bridget at Elite London and Dewi at Select
Shot on location at Snape Maltings, Near Aldeburgh, Suffolk IP17 1SR snapemaltings.co.uk 01728 688 303 Photograph: Kevin foord/Observer

Coat, £89.99
This military inspired wool coat with gold button detail gives a nod to the trend with a classic slant and looks best worn with a skinny trouser, chunky knit and flat boots
Zara, zara.com Photograph: PR

Dress, £59
Stand out on parade and strike a fashion cord with this military colour block dress. Wear with a high heel knee high boot to finish the look
Marks and Spencer, marksandspencer.com Photograph: PR

Boots, £120
Make the ankle boot a wardrobe essential for winter. This olive green leather pair with a mid block heel and ankle strap are a perfect alternative to a classic black boot
Topshop, topshop.com Photograph: PR

Belt, £15.00
Dip your toe into the military trend with this belt, perfect over a chunky knit or to cinch the waist of a minimal wool coat. We think this is money well spent
River Island, riverisland.com Photograph: PR

Jumpsuit, £45
This utilitarian jumpsuit is stylish, a great alternative to the dress, easy to wear and super cool. Simply add an ankle boot and statement leather cuff to style
River Island, riverisland.com Photograph: PR

Skirt, £245
For a touch of utility chic, style this khaki skirt with a fine gauge knit, leather jacket and chunky boot
Joseph, joseph.co.uk Photograph: PR

Jacket, £48
The perfect item to add to a dress for an urban warrior edge or to simply layer over a leather jacket and jeans for a casual cool touch
Topshop, topshop.com Photograph: PR

Dress, £24.99
Add a touch of off-duty military style with this jersey skater dress
Newlook, newlook.com Photograph: PR

Coat, £325
If you're investing in a light coloured coat it's worth checking for good quality fabric and buttons as every detail will stand out. We think this military inspired coat is a winner
Karen Millen, karenmillen.com Photograph: PR

Jumper, £42
Adopt a little utilitarian touch with this simple v-neck sweater with military patch. Team with a skinny black trouser or khaki wool pants
Oasis, oasis-stores.com Photograph: PR