One of my clients looked absolutely sensational in Derek Lam’s Double Face Sleeveless Coat last week. This client is regular height, short-waisted, dramatic, in her fifties, and has gorgeous long curly brown hair with auburn highlights. She loved the black so much she had to wear it right away.

The gilet does NOT run true to size as Nordstrom suggests, but two sizes large. A US4 fit my US8 client with a good amount of architectural drape (just like the model in the photo). Roomy, but with just enough structure. And in this case, the gilet looks better buttoned-up in front to temper the volume. 

The gilet is soft. You can drive in it, keep it on indoors, or work in it at the office. The gathered collar looks fussy but stays put. You don’t need to have a long neck to wear the collar because it folds down to create a flatter shape. It’s ideal for moderate climates, and the side entry pockets are great. 

The charcoal is an easy match over a column of black if you like black and grey outfits. This particular client prefers combining black with earth tones and jewel tones. So here are the exact items that we paired with her new black gilet. No blue denim! We finished off the look with black booties and pumps, a chocolate brown bag, and a fun orange necklace.