Military jackets are back in fashion – here's how to wear this nostalgic trend second time around
Don't pass up this returning style, I promise it works in 2026
If, like me, you can't help but think of Cheryl Cole's 'Fight for this Love' when you see a frogged military jacket, you might be surprised to know that this nostalgic style is back on our radar. Part of the autumn/winter fashion trends for 2026, this classic design has already reappeared on the high street in a major way.
And it isn't just jackets either. The focus of the trend is largely on the button and frogging detailing, as well as statement epaulettes, meaning this has been translated to blouses and dresses, too, offering new ways to wear the classic.
Of course, revisiting a trend is always a little difficult, as we want it to look and feel fresh rather than throwback, and in this instance, pairing your military jacket with other modern silhouettes is absolutely key. Swap skinny denim for the best barrel-leg jeans, a silky slip skirt or a pair of wide-leg tailored trousers to add a more modern feel to this retro trend. It will instantly refresh it and root it in 2026.
The tweed take on this military-style jacket gives it a very polished feel that echoes trophy blazers, for an elegant finish. Team with more relaxed denim to add a smart casual feel. The cream colourway means it can team up with almost any hue.
Revisiting a military jacket too much for you? I get it, but take that statement button detailing and a trending bohemian dress shape and you've got a directional take on the look. Folksy silhouettes are another key player this season, and this nails two styles in one.
Military jackets are traditionally canvas or brocade so I love the leather rework that Mint Velvet has opted for. It gives the whole look a much fresher, directional feel, that has just the right amount of vintage styling to it. Pair over creams and whites for laidback cool.
Possibly one of the chicest executions of this trend, there is something a little gothic-romantic about this blouse, too, which only makes it more appealing. For autumn outfit ideas, use this as a chic, directional layering piece under jeans and blazer pairings.
Available in five colourways, this printed iteration takes a step away from classic military tones for a more bohemian finish, falling in line with current style trends. With a retro aesthetic, this jacket won't go out of date, it will simply give every outfit character.
If the traditional frogging detail is your major barrier, this military blazer gently nods to the aesthetic without going to heavy. The utilitarian styling will also nod to those more safari-esque styles, ensuring you'll wear this into spring too.
Sometimes returning trends feel like seeing an old friend, and sometimes they have slightly more Marmite qualities, and I'd say with almost certainty many women are questioning whether they can revisit this 2009 look, and honestly, with a few simple styling tweaks, you absolutely can.
The first thing to note is to wear it like it's 2026. That means ditching the skinny jeans for this particular look and opting for more trend-led silhouettes such as balloon or barrel leg jeans, as this automatically adds a directional feel. Consider your footwear here too: a pair of the best white trainers, loafers or sleek ballet pumps again add modernity to this nostalgic style, ensuring it delivers 'vintage find', rather than 'back of the wardrobe'.
If jeans aren't for you, don't worry. Bohemian, folksy styles are very much back on the fashion radar; try slipping a military jacket over a floaty dress to define your silhouette and your style. Equally, adding a splash of the autumn/winter fashion colour trends for 2026 to your look, in the form of a bright silky slip skirt or simple dress, teamed with a military jacket, will feel very of the moment, and help your nostalgic buy feel fully updated.
