The Perfect Trench

 

Is there anything more chic than sipping your morning cup of tea or latte at an outdoor cafe while decked out in a trench coat? When it comes to trench coats Burberry is the quintessential brand. However, as such a coat remains a purely aspirational addition to my closet, I love my London Fog version. It's amazing how throwing a trench over the simplest of ensembles (skinny jeans and a tee, a floral dress, etc.) instantly adds a bit of glamor.

(London Fog, $100)

And, should an errant springtime thunderstorm err your way, you're perfectly protected from the elements. What's not to love?

Image via weheartit

Ski Coat

It's finally starting to feel like winter, by which I mean I nearly managed to get frostbite this weekend. At the last minute I ended up helping out at an outdoor activity (that I knew I wasn't dressed for, but there was no time to change) in thirty degree weather. Not the smartest choice, but I thankfully recovered. The whole time, I kept imagining my warm, double layered ski coat sitting unused at home.

Moral of the story? Don't forget this guy. It may not be the most fashionable of clothing, but when it comes to a day on the slopes, or a few hours in below freezing temperatures, there's nothing I'd rather have than my ski coat.

Cheery Coats

It's no secret yellow is my favorite color. It's full of light and energy, and can brighten up any ensemble. While the yellow rain jacket and boots are classics, I think yellow outwear can be interpreted more broadly to include all styles of this cheery hue.

When it comes to toggled coats, this JCrew version is stunning. Unfortunately, so is the $495 price tag.

On the wallet friendlier side of the spectrum, this Old Navy coat is adorable (and $69.50)

This JCrew take on a peacoat is divine. I love detailed construction in the princess seaming and waistband ($245).

I love the brightness of this shade of yellow and the shiny buttons (Apt. 9, $120).

If you're unsure about wearing yellow all the time, a less expensive version, like this BP coat for $68, is the answer.

I think it would be nearly impossible to sport such a sunny piece and be gloomy, even in the chilliest weather.

Paul & Joe & Sister

Now that temperatures are cooling, it's time for layers and more layers. And of course, what winter ensemble is complete without an coat? While black, brown, and navy are safe choices, there's no rule against bright coats in November.

Paul & Joe's Winter 2010 collection featured bright buttoned and toggled coats in three beautiful hues. All three hues are a dream in technicolor, and I'd happily sport any one of these cheery garments.

 

I think my favorite is the bright turquoise "Poppy". It's very unexpected, but the structure of the front panel balances the playful color. The buttons have a small gold detail, which provides the perfect finishing touch.

I'm also newly enamored with Paul & Joe's Sister line. It has a more youthful vibe befitting its name.

While less vibrant than the "Poppy" coat, the lovely shade of the "Ruban" is nonetheless eye-catching. The bow on the back is a sweet touch.

Finally, how adorable is this cape? It's loose, yet structured shape, the pockets, and toggles pair beautifully together.

Color beats the cold any day :)