Pack up your Troubles in your Old Kit Bag...

In America, we've just celebrated the 4th of July, the day of American Independence. It's a holiday that's filled with patriotism, fireworks, and a big nod to the military. In a few weeks, Britain will be celebrating the 100 year anniversary of the beginning of the Great War. So, all this got me thinking of the influence that war and military style has had on women's fashion. So let's explore that history a bit!

This striking riding-habit has a strong military flavour, echoing the famous red coats worn by the British military. 

This example from the V&A, circa 1770, is very similar to that shown in the painting above.

Towards the end of the 18th century, women's clothing became looser and less heavy. This gorgeous bodice from the 1780s is an example of this influence, married perfectly to the military influence that also came about from the French Revolution. 

The military style carried into the Empire/ Regency period.

This almost seems like an exact copy of a uniform!

A popular look in the 1860s was based on the Zouave jacket. 

The Zouave uniform, well known in the Crimean War and the American Civil War. 

The fact that so many women donned uniforms during the First World War contributed greatly to the looser, less frilly styles that came after the war. 

An example of that can be seen in the Trench coat, which was popularised for both men and women after the Great War. 

The Second World War also had a huge effect on women's fashion. These simple dresses might be mistaken for uniforms of some kind. 

A modern interpretation of Wartime fashion. 

This vintage military look is also popular today with followers of Diesel Punk.

Modern interpretations of the Trench Coat.

As evidenced by Kate, Duchess of Cambridge, the military look is always in fashion, and can look so sleek and timeless.