Marching orders

Strike up the band and book the world tour... just don’t forget your jacket

There are two sorts in life: guys in a band and guys who wish they were in a band. From the parties to the groupies, the perks of the career are clear. But for those not musically gifted enough to be warbling up on stage, there is an answer: The Trophy Jacket. Also known as soldier jackets and marching band jackets, these piped and brocaded beauties have been loved by every rock and roll chanteur, from Pete Doherty to Freddie Mercury. Jackets like these need only momentarily grace one’s shoulders before one becomes part rock star, part blinging babe magnet. The key to the look’s success is in keeping the rest of the ensemble simple—either black skinnies or slouchy suit trousers and a shabby T-shirt. It’s time to let your jacket do the talking, and lots of it.