If ever there were a time to mention that art imitates life, it is now.  With continuing conflict in the Middle East and elsewhere, the armed forces are a hot button issue.  And the fashion world has responded.  From the casual, geometric cool of Alexander Wang, to the whimsical Blumarine, the Spring 2010 runways boasted military-inspired looks front and center.

At Balmain, Christophe Decarnin put his own twist on the trend though sticking to his glam rock roots.  Models strutted down the runway sporting the razor-shouldered blazers and day-friendly sequins he has become so famous for.  This time around, the jackets were festooned with perfectly gaudy epaulets and eclectic badges.  Armor-like beading and slashed pieces provided the perfect wardrobe for a very glamorous battle.

At Alexander Wang, the look was decidedly less flashy.  The young designer’s models carried forth a barrage of khaki though Wang’s talent for beautiful draping made them look as if they’d slipped out of prep school to join the military.

Editorial spreads have been heading to the front lines too.  Shot by Nino Muñoz, Gisele stuns with her polished, pin-up glam in the May issue of Vogue Mexico.  At the other end of the spectrum, Carmen Kass took a turn as the queen of desert warfare in Mark Pillai’s June spread for Harpers Bazaar UK.

Lucky for us mere mortals, the trend is super wearable.  No matter what your personal style is, the simple key traits leave much room to explore.  A great staple of the trend is the military band jacket.  Ranging from edgy leather to preppy canvas, you are definitely are free to pick your poison.  Army green also plays a big part, and designers are looking at the world through olive-colored glasses, so you won’t be hard-pressed to find the perfect piece.

If you’re worried about taking the look too far, try mixing rugged pieces, with softer ones.  For example, try a khaki cargo boyfriend short with a flowy, feminine tank.  Classic pieces in unexpected materials (think silk camp shirts) are also a good way to ease into the trend.  Before you head out of the door, be sure to top your ensemble off with a healthy dose of this seasons fabulous studded jewelry.

Drafted by I Am Grace featuring Rebecca Minkoff bags