How the Trench Can Revamp Your Look For Fall 2009 Thru Winter 2010

Burberry's Fall 2009 thru Winter 2010 fashion runway showcases some really gorgeous trench coats. These are taupe and belted and totally chic. Models strode down the catwalk wearing long trench coats, worn open to reveal the gorgeous dresses beneath them.

Hermes brought a new twist to the trench coat by putting hoods on these classics. What you get is a superbly warm, cute, all wrapped up look that looks undeniably cool. Pair that with a wool scarf and warm trousers.

How long should your trench coat be?

Knee length or calf length?
Long or short? Ankle length or mid thigh?
A full, knee length trench coat like the one at Hermes, which wraps your body beautifully is as flattering as a wrap dress. A warm, very feminine, alternative to a dress in the bitter gold.

Each has its pros and cons. All go beautifully with everything. from dresses to jeans. From work wear to your evening dress. Preferably, get a trench that is longer than your dresses.

If you are short, a knee length coat would be more appropriate, as would shorter dresses. A too long trench coat would overpower your frame.

If you are tall, go for a calf length length dress as it is more elegant and you have the height to carry it well.

The trench is a classic. Did you know you could base an entire capsule wardrobe on that single trench coat?

To begin with the trench coat is a classic that has stood the test of time. Pop culture loves trench coats. From Dick Tracy to The Matrix Trilogy. A trenchcoat is the epitome of cool. Wear it with sunglasses for that uber-cool look. Once upon a time, a trench coat was purely outerwear. Now, it has become indoor wear as well. You can wear your trench coat on its own as a sexy wrap dress.

Now as the basis of you capsule wardrobe, all you need is a trench coat. If you are petite, go for a knee length trench coat. If you are tall, go for a calf length trench coat.

What else should you get?
If your existing clothes fit you, keep them. Use the trench coat to revamp your look.

Your favourite pair of jeans.
A pair of tailored trousers
A pencil skirt
A pretty blouse.
A camisole
A white shirt.
A dress that is slightly shorter than your trench coat.

Mix and match these with your new trench coat for a brand new look.

Wear the dress with your trench coat, leaving the coat open to show off the dress.
Wear the trench coat on its own as a wrap dress, with sexy lingerie.
Wear the trench coat over a sweater and jeans on a cold day out.
Wear a pencil skirt and pretty blouse under your open trench coat.
Wear a camisole an trousers with your trench.
Mix and match your capsule wardrobe for a myriad of cool outfits, given a lift with that gorgeous trench.