Love Your Last Layer :: the 'it' coat

Let your last layer be your favorite because, after all, your coat is the piece that gets the most playing time in the winter. On busy days when I'm out and about, my coat is my outfit. This season I chose a wool coat with leather sleeves - timeless with an edgy flair. 

Underneath my star piece, I kept it polished and simple. Opt for a neutral color scheme that compliments your outer layer while adding interest with a special necklace. I can almost never say no to pearls - especially when worn with an elegant black ensemble. How very Audrey! 

It's no secret that leather has been my weakness this entire season. I've featured this luxe and of-the-moment texture in almost every post recently. So when I spotted this wool coat with leather sleeves you can imagine my excitement. I think it's the perfect marriage between classic and contemporary and I feel so chic wearing it every day! 

Go ahead and pop your collar for a little extra protection from those flurries; not to mention a high-fashion vibe. 

Center an entire outfit around your coat for a warm look that you can comfortably - and stylishly - wear both inside and out. 

A combo of leather and calf hair puts these booties ahead of the shoe curve.  

Pearls never have and never will be out of style. But to give your look a modern update, don't put your pearls on double duty. If I'm wearing pearls around my neck, I choose something other than matching studs in my ear. 

Photos by Dan Harper 

[skirt: Ann Taylor, turtleneck: Ann Taylor, coat: Ann Taylor, booties: Ann Taylor, pearls: fine jewelry, earrings: fine jewelry, watch: Marc Jacobs, bracelet: Ann Taylor]

I have only recently started taking coat selection seriously. Up until this year (I know, I've been so behind), I wore my white North Face fleece everywhere. I thought it was the only "coat" I needed. How silly of me! Don't get me wrong, North Face jackets are great, but they aren't exactly a star on the fashion world stage. 

After investing in three fabulous coats this past year that are beautiful, warm, and versatile, I feel much more prepared for looking chic in any type of weather.  Be proud of your last layer and make it your most stylish layer yet! 

SHOP ::