Quintessential Coat: The Trench

The trench is classic, has endured time and is still as popular as ever.

Marc New York by Andrew Marc Nina Trench, $119 from Neiman Marcus

Trench coats were born out of practicality in the First World War by the British and French armies. Aquascutum and Burberry both claim the trench as their own; Aquascutum says their design dates to the 1850's, while Thomas Burberry submitted the design to the British Army in 1901. The coats were not a mandatory part of the uniforms, but many soldiers wore them and continued to wear them in civilian life. The name comes from trench warfare; soldiers needed the protection from the elements while in the trenches.

Michael by Michael Kors Cranberry Trench, $139 from Blue Fly

Now, trench coats are a staple for the fashionable. The long coats keep you warm in the fall/winter, they protect your clothes from the elements and they are always in style. Khaki is the classic color of the trench, but you can find them in a variety of colors now. You can also find detailing and cuts that make them more feminine and flattering.

Hawke British Tiered Trench, $101.15 from Blue Fly

When looking for a trench, make sure it is roomy enough to accommodate layers and sweaters. Also, button the coat all the way to the top to ensure there is enough room in the bust. If you live in a mild climate, a shorter trench is a great option. Besides the traditional wool and cashmere, there are also cotton trenches available.

Soia & Kyo Chaima Trench, $134.99 from Blue Fly

If a trench coat is not in your closet, you must get one. It will be in style for years to come!

Elie Tahari Candice Trench, $134.99 from Blue Fly

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Photos from ShopStyle

Quilted Jackets

Quilted jackets are popular for this fall/winter. Of course you don't want to look like a marshmallow or holiday float, so how do you find the quilted jacket that is right for you?

Jane Post Fur Timmed Quilted Coat, $318.75 from Saks Fifth Ave.

First, remember you are not looking for a puffer jacket, necessarily. The quilting is the main detail, not the puff, so down shouldn't be too fluffy.

Silolona Fur Collar Zigzag Jacket, $443 from Neiman Marcus

Look for jackets that are slim cut and fit close to the body. Also, the longer the jacket, the larger you will appear. Go for quilted jackets that hit at the waist or hips. Longer, knee or calf length jackets seem to swallow people (like Norma Kamali's signature sleeping bag coat).

DKNY Quilted Leather Jacket, $239 from Blue Fly

Belting tops and dresses is so popular because the belt gives you definition at the slimmest part of your body. The same goes for jackets and outerwear.

Betsey Johnson Quilted Hooded Jacket, $108.99 from Blue Fly

Dark colors like black, gray and slate are versatile, classic and slimming. While white jackets look great, they show dirt and stains quickly and can give you that undesirable marshmallow effect. If you want a lighter colored jacket, stick with camel or tan.

Phi Quilted Silk Jacket, $442.50 from The OutNet

Even when it is cold and rainy outside, you will still look fashionable in a quilted jacket!

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Photos from ShopStyle

Christopher Bailey Does Burberry to Perfection

Buberry just finished showing at London Fashion Week, and I want it all! Christopher Bailey is a genius when it comes to tailoring coats and adding the right details.

Tall, thigh high boots were on almost all of the models. So, after the summer is over, keep those legs in shape because these boots are hot! Ankle boots were also featured. The coolest part? Shearling on the inside! Trade these shearling lined boots for your beat up Uggs. The handbags also stood out with stud detailing.

Now, for the main attraction, what Burberry is know for: The coats! The collection definitely had a military chic appeal. The collars were emphasized and leather straps with buckles, zippers and military buttons gave the coats just the right amount of detail while still remaining classic. Shearling was all over the place and a few rich brown fur coats were shown.

The coat colors were mostly military green, browns and navy. However, there was a bright blue double breasted coat that really popped.

Ruched dresses, shredded chiffon dresses, and slim skirts in navy, mustard yellow and a berry/plum stood out for the deep colors. The dresses and skirts did have a longer hem, keeping with what we saw in New York.

You cannot go wrong with any piece from this collection. Bravo, Bailey.

Photos from AP/Alastair Grant