Closet Essentials: Camel Coat

From time to time people ask what kinds of items they should have in their wardrobe. Since most of us don't have unlimited budgets or closet space, I do believe there are pieces that are must-haves for every fashionista; items that will have maximum impact and offer the most versatility.  Among such essentials are a good pair of well-fitting jeans, a crisp white button-down blouse,  a fitted blazer, pencil skirt, the classic LBD and (drumroll please)...the camel coat. It's got to be one of my favorite staple pieces because it adds such a classic, chic look to just about any ensemble. Wear it with jeans, slacks, a skirt, it doesn't matter. Whether dressed up or down, it just works.

Today's post features a double-breasted cape coat that I found and immediately fell in love with a few years ago while creating looks on Polyvore. This particular chilly day I chose to wear it with a thick wool cable knit sweater in chocolate brown and my favorite skinny distressed jeans. A pair of sexy, textured platform booties and long leather gloves finished the ensemble.

There are many variations on the camel coat. From long to short, single to double-breasted, belted,  even collarless. The options are as varied as the available price points (mine was only $40!), so there's really no excuse not to have one. Just shop smart and listen to your style instincts.

Here are a few examples I love of ways to dress the classic camel coat up or down. Gotta love anything that offers you so much versatility! That's what you call getting the most bang for your buck and if you're a frugal fashionista like me, that's the name of the game.

MoxyStyle on Polyvore
Here are a few looks I've created using the Polyvore app. Check out my Moxystyle page for outfit details, http://moxystyle.polyvore.com.