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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The Cape

Dracula wore a cape, and now so are some of the most fashionable women. The modern cape is more Marry Poppins than vampire though.

Autumn Cashmere Cape, $436 from Bergdorf Goodman

Capes can be worn as a jacket as a component of an outfit, a light jacket that you remove or as outerwear.

APC Cape Jacket, $420 from Barney's

The cape has its origins in medieval Europe and became a fashion statement in the 1700's there. The first capes were sleeveless and fastened around the neck, often worn by church officials with intricate embroidery. In the Victorian era, capes again became fashionable, and were made of luxe materials.

Ribbed Cape, $109.53 from Asos

The cloak, mantle, shawl and stole are close cousins to the cape.

Lowie Cape, $320.15 from Asos

In modern times, many capes have loose sleeves, similar to a poncho, and fasten in the front with a minimal number of buttons or a tie. A cape can be worn as an alternative to a trench; it has the same feel, but is more fashion forward right now.

Aubin & Willis Callon, $162 from The OutNet

When shopping for a cape, trying on the garment is key, so check the return policy for online purchases. Trying on capes is so important because the proportions really matter with this piece. You do not want to look too large, or boxy and the sleeves and length need to be the perfect length.

Ilana Wolf Sequin Trim Cape, $223 from Saks Fifth Ave.

Wear your cape to work with trousers, skirts or dresses and heels. Try your cape after work hours with skinny jeans or jeggings and boots for a great fall/winter look.

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Photos from ShopSyle

Short Sleeved Jackets

A short sleeved jacket seems counterintuitive, but there is a need for them. Just think, the weather is still pretty warm, but in the morning or at night you need an extra layer. Or, the beautiful crisp days that call for an added layer, but not long sleeves or a jacket yet. There are also 3/4 sleeved jackets available if that suits your style better.

Alvin Valley Silver Swing Jacket, $67.99 from Blue Fly

See, this is when short sleeved jackets are a wardrobe must. Besides wearing them to transition from summer to fall, they are perfect for transitioning from spring to summer (or, depending on your climate, winter to spring).

Parameter Ostrich Printed Linen Jacket, $92.99 from Blue Fly

Since these jackets are so versatile, pick one in black and one in white/cream. But, you don't have to stop there- I have seen lots of cute metallic, navy and patterned short sleeved jackets. Also, styles can vary from casual chic to more structured blazers. There are a ton of color and style options available, so everyone should be able to find at least one short sleeved jacket that is just right for them.

Nanette Lepore Think It Over Jacket, $118.99 from Blue Fly

You can wear a short sleeved jacket to work, with jeans and a tank or t-shirt, over a dress, with a romper or jumper, or with a tunic and leggings. You are only limited by your imagination...or wardrobe.

Tallulah Sunrise Jillian Jacket, $85.99 from Blue Fly

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Photos from Blue Fly