Just an update, I followed your advice on the stowage, buckles, canteen etc and I must say, the model looks so much better for it. I began by detail painting the straps with Humbrol leather and painted the buckles as well. I gave the sotwage areas a wash of burnt sienna, burnt umber and lamb black mix. Once dried, I applied some earthy tone pastels. Overall, i think it looks much better than before. thanks a bunch
(i'll take some photos later in the week, if you would like to see the finished product drop me a line)
Cheers