How to Style a Sleeveless Trench Coat

Sleeveless Trench Coat and Flares for Fall

I often get a surprised look when I meet followers in person. Many of them think I am much taller than I actually am. I’m no tall gal, coming in at 5’2″ on a good day.

I have a few style tricks that I use every day and share with my petite friends and personal shopping clients. One of those tricks is to wear your flares with heels. If I had a bible of style, this would be one of the 10 Commandments. Another fashion rule I’ve recently created?

Thought shalt not wear flats if your hemline is past your knees. 

Now that I’m playing with this season’s newest trends, accessories, and layers, I’m learning how to make them work for me, too. Enter the sleeveless trench coat. When I visited Versona in at Short Pump Town Center, I couldn’t stop creating outfits with this edgy, yet classic layering essential. If you followed me on Insta Stories that day, you know!

After I took it home, the belted trench vest has easily made other fashion friends in Sweet Sauce’s closet. Because it hits me below the knees and I’m on the shorter end of the spectrum, I went right for my heels as I started to wear it out. I even tried flats, but I may as well have just chopped off my ankles and added 5 inches to my thighs. Always abide by the style rules you create for your own body. Otherwise, you’re waisting your time!

I rocked the tan sleeveless trench coat here over a striped fluid, yet structured blouse from DressFo. I love the contrast of the lines and the white against a rich tan.

The flares and suede inspired a boho chic vibe. I paired a floral bouquet necklace from Lonely Pine Jewelry with the angular ensemble. It’s made of real flowers! The Richmond, VA based artist finds flowers, insect wings, and other whimsical items around the city to press in acrylic. The result are gems that make me feel like a zen wood nymph, even during the work day.

I’m sneaking in another new fall favorite since I had these babies on hand during the shoot: Lip Sense colors. I was gifted these with promise of lip color that doesn’t come off. Welp, it works. I’ve put it to the test drinking and eating. I chose stain in Plumeria. I thought this would be a nice fit for fall and the dark colors that come along with it. Be sure to follow the directions! It takes a second to get these to stay on, but then you’re rosey, bright red, or subtle pink for hours!

Shop the Look:

Belted Trench Vest c/o Versona

Striped Blouse c/o Dressfo

Second hand Paige Denim c/o ThredUp, Similar

Suede Booties c/o French Connection, Similar

Necklace, Lonely Pine Jewelry

Linked up with Wardrobe Stylist, Pumps and Pushups, the Pleated Poppy.