If you happened to catch a glimpse of the fall 2010 RTW shows, you noticed there was a continuance of the ever-present military theme.  Balmain, Rag & Bone, MaxMara and L.A.M.B. all featured military-inspired jackets, skinny cargos, and combat boots — each with their own twist.

Last week I waxed poetic about my early teen years — gingham babydoll dresses paired with combat boots.  Well, it seems this trend has finally come full circle, because I can’t think of anything better to pair with this season’s feminine florals and girly gingham pieces.  Even better, they will take you right into fall.  Now that’s what I call being well-prepared.  Earn your stars with these 5 fabulous pieces:

1.  Combat Boots
Comfortable and chic, these are already making a strong showing.  I like Jeffrey Campbell’s All Combat Boots for $285.

2. Rag & Bone O’hara Jacket, $520 
I love the dressed-down look of this army jacket.

3. Burberry Brit Drawstring Shirtdress, $495
With feminine details like puffy sleeves and a drawstring waist, this shirtdress is at once slimming and chic.

4. 7 For All Mankind Leather Bomber,  $349
100% Italian leather with crinkle effect, bomber jackets are taking off.

5. Old Navy Twill Tie-Belt Jacket, $44.50 $35.99 (19% off)
Style for less less than fifty bucks is what we call an all-American dream.

> shop more military styles at beso

Gillian Laub Family Potrait - photo by Gillian Laub

We recently contacted Gillian Laub, the acclaimed and published photographer whose work ranges from portraits of Israelis and Palestinians to celebrity photo sessions, the common thread of which is strong juxtapositions in photographic compositions. Stepping out from behind her lens, she shared with us some of her favorites. Herewith is what she’s feeling.

Israelis at Guard and at Play - photo by Gillian Laub

Q&A
beso: What’s your favorite pair of jeans right now?
Gillian Laub: Rag & Bone jeans. So comfy.

b: What’s pair of shoes are you wearing on the weekends around town?
GL: I LIVE in my Martin Margiela boots. I don’t think I’ve taken them off all winter.

b: What bag(s) are you carrying right now?
GL: LeSportsac for work stuff…great durability and Chanel for play.

b: What gloss are you wearing right now?
GL: I don’t wear gloss, just Rosebud Salve.  Good for lips, dry cuticles, and any area that needs some softening.

b: And your scent of choice?
GL: Dr. Hauschka Rose Body Oil.

b: What stores are calling out to you? what stores are you drawn into?
GL: I am drawn to small boutiques where it’s an intimate experience and things are more curated.  I wish I didn’t get panic attacks in department stores because I like the idea of a one stop shopping [Gillian, beso.com anyone?]

b: What nail polish color are you loving?
GL: I don’t wear nail polish.

b: What color is your new black?
GL: Black will always be my new black. But I love all shades of purple as well and adding accents of color.

b: What’s your favorite LBD?
GL: A Mayle dress i bought years ago. so disappointed when the boutique closed.

b: What camera do you keep in your purse?
GL: Canon G10; it’s the best digital point and shoot!!

Gillian Laub, camera in hand at her own wedding

b: Lastly, we’d like to know: What’s your beso? My beso is: “be so compassionate”
GL: I can’t really do better than ‘be so compassionate;’ how about ‘be so open minded’

Rag & Bone Jeans

Martin Margiela Wedge Boots

LeSportsac Handbag

Burberry Skinny Giant Check Scarf in Regiment Red, $195

I love a good splurge every now and then.  The key is not to wake up the next day feeling guilty for my purchase.  That’s why I always make sure that any indulgence is not only worth the money spent, but also a luxury I will be able to enjoy for years to come.

This month, I’m all about neckwear.  From fabulous flirty necklaces to yummy cashmere scarves, my d©collet© is just dying to be draped in extravagance.  These pieces are all valuable investments, worth their price, and won’t go out of style.

The Burberry Skinny Giant Check Scarf in Regiment Red is probably one of the most versatile items you’ll ever own.  It can add style to jeans and a simple shirt, and looks equally appropriate worn with a jacket over a cocktail dress to keep warm.  While $195 might be steep for a scarf, wear it with a Target t-shirt and your whole outfit will still look like it came from Burberry.

Banana Republic Floral Necklace, $125

I simply cannot get enough of this floral necklace from Banana Republic.  The mixed metals and antique detail make this piece look like it’s worth far more than the $125 price tag.  And the grey satin bow — sweet and sexy.  Since statement necklaces are hot right now, this is something that can be worn casually during the day and dressed up for night.  But even after this trend has been worn out, I can still see myself wearing this with an LBD to a holiday party.

Rag & Bone Maryna Leather Jacket, $1325

But what goes with my new scarf and necklace?  This Rag & Bone Maryna leather jacket, that’s what.  The asymmetrical cut ensures that this look is thoroughly modern, and the softness of the leather adds a nice feminine contrast. Top everything off with a spritz of Marc Jacobs’ latest fragrance, Lola, and you’ll see why this is money well spent.

Marc Jacobs Lola, $85