Move Over Barn Coats, Military Jackets Are Fall’s Latest Obsession

Aug 20, 2026 - 01:09

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Move Over Barn Coats, Military Jackets Are Fall’s Latest Obsession

military hero image.jpg E! Illustration/ Lucky Brand, Shopbop, Free People

Military jackets are shaping up to be one of fall 2026's biggest outerwear trends, but don't worry—you don't need to go full Sgt. Pepper to pull one off.

After barn coats and cropped trenches dominated last fall, military-inspired jackets are taking over for the new season, with structured silhouettes, utility pockets, officer-style buttons and olive hues popping up everywhere.

"Post-NYFW, utility style is everywhere. Designers leaned into structured silhouettes, cargo pockets, and military-inspired outerwear," celebrity stylist Samantha Brown exclusively told E!.

But styling a military jacket requires a careful balance in order to wear them in a way that feels more chic than cosplay. And Brown shared exactly how to do that.

"On the streets, people are pairing these tougher pieces with sleek foundations underneath so the look feels intentional rather than bulky. Shaping pieces work especially well under oversized utility jackets."

Military-Inspired Blazer: GRAPENT Button-Up Blazer
On-Sale Cropped Pick: Lucky Brand Legend Band Jacket
Vintage Style Denim Find: Free People Imogene Denim Officer Jacket

Below, Brown breaks down exactly how to wear the military jacket trend for fall 2026, along with affordable options from Free People, Lucky Brand, Amazon, and more.

Stylist tip: "Designers showed a more polished take on utility with tailored cargo trousers, structured jackets, and monochromatic sets," Brown says.

"Everyday wearers are balancing the proportions with fitted layers underneath, often reaching for smoothing dresses or slim pants to create a clean, streamlined shape. For beginners, pair a legging with a longer military jacket and sling back kitten heels or knee-high riding boots."

GRAPENT Military-Inspired Blazer

This military-inspired blazer really captures the updated take on the trend with a more polished look that you can wear for dinner, drinks, or even to the office.

Always Easygoing Black Sleeveless Bodysuit

A fitted basic is key when styling your utility look, Brown says. This sleek, simple sleeveless bodysuit is a staple that'll pair so well with your fave military mini skirt, cargo pants, or jacket.

Levi's Ribcage White Denim Straight Ankle Jeans

Brown recommends a pair of straight leg pants for easy styling. This classic pair of Levi's jeans feels utilitarian yet elevated for the perfect contrast.

Stylist tip: "A simple but reliable way to nail the trend is a military jacket layered over a fitted top with straight-leg pants. If you want a sleek base layer that doesn’t add bulk," Brown explains.

Lucky Brand Legend Band Jacket

Toss on this chic Lucky Brand Military Jacket with your fave straight-leg trousers or jeans and stick with basics for the rest of your look. It will let the jacket do all the talking.

FP Imogene Denim Officer Jacket

Ideal for layering, this jacket gives a classic denim jacket a utilitarian twist thanks to oversized lapels and rows of textured metal buttons.

Keep it Sleek Black Vegan Leather Leggings

Brown recommends styling your military jacket with a pair of leggings. She says it's great for everyday: "A lightweight utility jacket layered over denim or leggings keeps the look easy and practical." This faux leather pair is an unexpected alternative to basic leggings.

Stylist tip: "You can tap into utility without relying on a classic military jacket. Utility skirts, structured vests, and tailored dresses all capture the vibe. Cargo skirts, and details like gold buttons and braided materials give a nod to military style and can feel more nuanced."

LILLUSORY Cargo Mini Skirt

Switch it up from your go-to denim skirt with this cargo style instead. "To keep the trend feeling relaxed, choose one standout utility piece and keep the rest simple," Brown says.

BDG 360 Utility Low-Rise Straight Leg Pant

You can't go wrong with a pair of classic cargos, either. Brown says to style them with a crisp button-down for a "modern, polished take on utility" that you can even wear to your nine-to-five.

Stylist tip: "Layering is essential to utility style," she says. "A utility vest over a fitted long-sleeve top adds dimension, and pairing a military jacket with a knit dress gives the look structure. Cargo skirts, especially midi lengths, are another refined way to embrace the trend."

Lionness Rinata Jacket

This Lionness Rinata Jacket is ideal for layering. It has a slightly oversized fit and belting at the waist that can be worn so many different ways—whether you're going for a simple tee underneath or fitted dress.

Brown suggests "twill, canvas, waxed cotton, and crisp cotton blends" for the aesthetic and says to "stick with olive, tan, charcoal, black or deep navy for the most verstaile and elevated results."

Trendsetting Aura Olive Green Cargo Mini Skirt

With its Y2k flair, this cargo mini skirt comes in a stylist-approved olive hue that adds to the military aesthetic without overdoing it.

Stars can't stop wearing this practical coat for fall.

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