Red Trench Coat

A brightly colored trench coat is more versatile than you would think. I love this particular one I bought at Bebe stores. It's really been one of those items I've worn with countless holiday dresses! Today's look was bringing it from a dressier state to a more casual look. The jacket is actually made with a satin finish to give it a little shine, but I really love this one, this one and this one too! I love the double breasted button details and the belted waist. It's so flattering and a great addition for tranisitioning temperatures.

As the rain continues pouring down, I'm finding these tall rain boots are one of the best (and most inexpensive) items I've added this year to my closet. A good pair of rain boots will make you want to spend more time outside and less time avoiding the rain. Also, invest in a good umbrella. After living in South East Asia in my High School days where they have an entire month that rains called "Monsoon Season" - I learned early on that a sturdy umbrella is a necessity not a luxury. Check out this post and this post for some great finds on boots and rain accessories.

In dressing with my rule of three - pick two neutrals and a bright, or two brights and a neutral, you can see how easy black, white and red looks together. Since I wanted the coat to play front and center, I kept all of the other accessories neutral. Black and white gingham is a nice pairing with the bright red. In spirit with My Holiday Bucket List - I decided to continue rocking a bold, red lip (which is No.7). 

Speaking of a bold look, I love to change up my makeup as Fall and Holiday seasons are upon us. I try to keep my face more neutral with clear looking skin and thick lashes - but a bolder lip is a must. I really love NARS lip crayons. I mentioned them back in this post, but the colors are truly rich and they stay on a little longer than others I've tried. Also, Younique makes a great lip liner that can be used for an all over color. I really like the deeper shades of their Moodstruck lip liner. 

If you do go with a good bold lip, I recommend using contouring with bronzer for your face and cheeks instead of a flushed look. Also, less is more on the eye shadow and liner. It's best to highlight one feature at a time. So, if you do a heavier eye - go nude on the lips. If you do a flushed cheek, keep the eyes and lips lighter. If you do a dark lip....well, you get the picture. Just don't show up looking like you should be on a stage performing! Wearing a red lip is perfectly appropriate for daytime - but a matte shade is more appealing for work.

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