For the next 12 days I’ll be focusing on style ideas for 2015.  Follow along for tips on trends to try, smart clothing tips, and new inspirations for a fab fashion new year!

DAY ONE: Try a Trench

There is an item of clothing that instantly adds chic and polish to ANY ensemble, and that is a classic trench coat.  I’m serious, you could be wearing footie pajamas with an elaborate bird fascinator, and a trench would legitimize your look.  I mean, don’t try it…but you could.  Every woman should own at least one trench coat.

If you don’t have a trench yet, try buying one in a shade of beige that’s flattering to your skin tone (fair-skinned beauties beware of too-pink beiges), and has a shape that works for you.

Great-fitting trench dresses up a chill outfit and fancy shoes.

Fair skin lady wearing a beige trench with green undertones: stunning!

Petite trench! The belt hits her at the waist, making this coat perfectly proportionate.

Me in a beige trench and jeans.

If you own a trench already, try one in a jaunty red, pink or green.

perfectly pink in the rain.

Red trench tops a neutral dress.

Me in a pink trench and jeans.

green trench with a dress and flats.

My top trench picks online:

Asos Classic Mac in pink

Dorothy Perkins Double Breasted in beige

Michael Kors trench in red