Friday Fancies : The Perfect Trench

Spring is almost upon us and here in Toronto, this usually means about 3 weeks of semi-warm, "can't go without a jacket weather", before the summer heat kicks in.

But, and this part is important, you MUST be prepared for this time.

And by prepared, I mean, you have to own a classic trench...particularly if you are a working woman.
A reader {and dear friend} recently asked me to help her on the search for the perfect trench coat.
Know that she has 2 children under the age of 4 so comfort, versatility and affordability are key.

The iconic, classic Burberry trench.
The one which all others are measured against.
And yes, you could splurge on this beauty. It would definitely last a lifetime but really, do you want to spend what could very likely be your entire Spring shopping budget on one item?
Not so much.

Here are a few great options: 

J Crew $344 {J Crew Factory : option}

Forever XXI $29.80 

Zara $139

Jacob $169.90 {sign up for their online newsletter & receive $20 off your purchase}

The Gap $128 {less 30% right now} 

I also saw a huge {and fabulous!} collection at The Bay that included tons of great looks by London Fog. Definitely worth checking out. 

My favorite above has to be the leather-trimmed version by Jacob. It's classic but with an edge which I always love.

Which one would you choose?

All About Fall

September is here. (when did that happen?)

Every year around this time, without fail,  I find myself sick and tired of my summer wardrobe and excited to start wearing fall"ish" clothing again.  

I love the change of season but unfortunately, the excitement never lasts. Before long, the real cold arrives, and I'm left wishing for warm weather, bikinis and ice-cream all over again. 

A girl can never win.

I have begun to hunt out and purchase a few fall must-have's; this year being especially fun since I haven't shopped for any work attire in like, forever...or at least since buying maternity clothes. And we all know those don't count.

I have already purchased a few key pieces that include:

1. a black pencil skirt with gold zip closure

Zara - $49.90

2. Black everyday pumps (with bow accent ~ so sweet)

Nine West "Alice" - $79.99

3. Chocolate Brown wedge boots (anxiously waiting for these to arrive!)

MsKG via Asos - $108

4. Handfuls of gold necklaces (here are two of them ~ I'm planning on layering like cray-zay)

Forever XXI "Circle Pendant" - $3.80

Forever XXI "Cross Accent" - $5.80

5. Cozy sweaters with interesting sleeves ~ there might have been a few.

Sweater by BCBG - $128 (note: I found mine sans stripes in charcoal for $59.95  at Winners aka TJMaxx)

I continue the search for:

1. The perfect navy blazer

(this lovely by Balmain on  Ms. Aniston would totally do)

2. The perfect trench. 

I contemplated this one from BR at length. Which also comes in black.

And then decided I didn't like the pinstripe lining. Or do I?

Classic Trench by Banana Republic - $240

3. The perfect wedge ankle boot. 

In soft, black leather. I have tried these pretties. I may go back.

Michael Kors "Bromley" ankle boots - $199 

Fall is in the air.

I can feel it.