When piling on the layers, a little creativity is always a good thing. In fact, popping up around the blogosphere are all sorts of marching-band inspired items – from DIY cardigan embellishments to, well, these (literally) shining examples. The inspiration suits both genders, all levels of bravery, and, in its more popular moments, all budgets. Don’t hold back, fall is seeing all sorts of unexpected trends so start your own by taking the following cues.

Outfit 1:
This first example is a bit more ornate (but also more fun?), with more curly cues and epaulettes. Wearing it like it’s just a regular jacket simply won’t work for this coat; it has to be the focal point. Paired with a palette of neutrals and some solid footwear — in this case, some pretty killer, traditional boots — is all it needs. That and, as I cannot stress enough, the confidence to pull it off.

Outfit 2:
This coat looks like it belongs more to the track jacket family than to a majorette, but it works. Its size and the simplicity of its patterning make it more casual and easier to pull off. Roll the sleeves up, wear something geeky-chic underneath (think monochromatic and Michael Cera), and rock it like you just came from band practice – marching band, that is. No one needs to know that’s exactly where you got it.

Ladies Touch by Maggie M; a freelance writer and fashion consultant.