Sometimes it is not what you wear, but how you wear it. You can wear almost any casual outfit and still look polished. You likely have this piece of clothing in your closet so the expense is $0! 

The answer is simple: wear your favorite coat as a cape.

The effect is instant and low-effort. The unconventional nature makes it eye-catching. It provides a little bulkiness to the shoulder area ( ---probably why shoulder pads were a thing in the 80s!) and the sway of the coat's flared bottom looks whimsical when walking. You've probably seen this look in movies where the guy will drape his coat over a woman when she is cold - it's romantic. And that sentiment carries over easily with most costs (regardless of gender).

SO drape a beautiful coat over your shoulders and you're a sophisticated lady! 

This works great for office wear, at least commuting to and from work. Office wear has become more casual in the last 5 or so years. Working in corporate America means most people aren't client-facing and there isn't a need to be in a suit daily. For example many offices allow jeans to be worn daily. I'm a huge fan - but I still would like to look like I'm trying! I suggest a wool coat that has some structure to it; paired with some closet staples that is fitted or loosely fitted for a simple and work-appropriate outfit.

My choice for the pièce de résistance is this Ted Baker Keyla wrap coat in camel color.  It is constructed of wool for the most part but has a small percentage of cashmere blended in. It is soft to the touch and comfortable for all-day wear. Not shown here, but this is a high collar coat. There is a button to fasten inside in the middle and collar flap closes with a magnet at the (my) left shoulder. You can wear this coat a few ways - closed collar/open collar, belted/unbelted, and now draped on your shoulders! This coat is on the lighter side and is perfect for the early fall or spring. It has gold-tone hardware and a belt.

A surprise signature of Ted Baker coats is the beautiful and colorful linings! Inside my Keyla coat, is a pale blue and pink floral design. I love this soft, silky, and just a gorgeous and unique detail. Each coat has a different color print and design.

TIPS FOR PICKING A STANDOUT COAT

1. A classic color: black, navy blue or camel so that you can wear it daily
2. Structure: a collar that is slightly stiff or a peplum flare, something architectural
3. Hardware: shiny buttons or contrasting finishes will give the coat texture
4. Fun details: Find a coat with noticeable details (colors, fun lining, thick stitching) to turn heads.

OUTFIT DETAILS

Ted Baker Keyla Coat in Camel (size 1) + Tobi Stripe Top (size S, comes in 2 color combinations) + Banana Republic Jeans (old classics, similar here and here) + Celine Belt Bag in Taupe (read my review on the bag HERE) + Michael Kors Pumps (old, similar here and here) + J.Crew Hinge Bracelet (old, similar here)

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