As a self-proclaimed fashion week junkie, I spend a lot of time on style.com looking at my favorite (and not so favorite) designers to see what they’re up to each season. It’s borderline insane how much time I’ve collectively spent doing fashion “research” on that website, but I sacrifice my sanity so you don’t have to. Each week I will spotlight some of my favorite collections of the season and try help you get the look from stores right here in Austin.

Dries Van Noten is always on the top of my fashion week list. His clothes are the perfect mix of casual and formal, feminine and masculine, and of course always look effortlessly chic (which we all know is a complete lie – it takes effort to look effortlessly chic!). And when it comes to a pop of color or print, no one does it better than he. Of course his most recent fall line is no exception to this aesthetic and he even adds a subtle military twist to the collection.

Luckily for you, I’ve already scoped out the boutiques and stores here in Austin so you know exactly where to go to grab your Dries inspired fall look.

The Utility Pant:

Look 21 F/W 10

Military pant by Dries

Arguably the most sought after pant of the season – the “army green” military/utility/cargo – was in nearly every store I went to. And rightfully so. It is a really versatile separate which can be dressed up or down, and worn day or night. If you want to get these in a trendier style, Girl Next Door down on 2nd street caries Paige Denim’s version, which is a stretch skinny legged pant with cargo pockets.  And just down the street, Plain Ivey Jane has a relaxed, cropped, and pleated front version by Silence and Noise - which I kinda instantly fell in love with. If you want something that will have more longevity in your closet, J. Crew is your store. Their “Everyday Chino” in fatigue will get you the same effect without being super trendy. Think about rolling the bottom of your pant legs a few times to jazz things up. It’s a ridiculously easy way to totally change the look and feel of an outfit.

Millitary Jacket at Dress Shop

So you’ve got the pants, now what about the rest of your outfit? I would suggest avoiding anything else “military inspired”. It will more than likely end up looking forced. If casual is what you’re want, try a loose tee or tank layered under a slouchy cardigan. Switch out the cardigan for a super feminine textured blazer like this one from Anthropologie if you are looking to dress things up. Then slip on some flats (not flip flops), or a great looking black or nude heel to complete your look.

And when I saw this glamed up military jacket, I couldn’t resist taking a photo of it. You could for sure choose this instead of  the utility pant to incorporate some Dries in your closet.  Throw this over a casual white button down tucked into your black jeans (or cut off jean shorts if you dare) and you will be the envy of your friends – I promise!