YLF'ers, I have been a very naughty SYB'er! As you know I have the Kate Spade black & white Japanese floral Austin sheath dress that I got last month at 45% off. Well, I found out the matching Melinda handbag and Topliner trench (the one that Girl X and Zapotee have) are on sale for 50% off, and I could not resist! I am in matchy matchy heaven with the black and white dress, bag in reverse print, and trench with matching Japanese floral liner (it's a Florence Broadhurst vintage print). I bought the bag at my local Kate Spade but they did not have the trench so I drove an hour to the nearest one that had ones to try on (I wasn't sure what size I would need). I ended up in a size 6 (I am normally size 4-6 in most things, but have one size 8 KS dress). It's a bit snug at the top when fully buttoned (but I can still move my arms comfortably), but the 8 was definitely too baggy. It's OK though since I probably will not be layering bulky sweaters underneath. I really like the fit and flare silhouette and the contrast trim. It feels very ladylike to me, unlike most standard trenches which are somewhat unisex/masculine looking to me. I have been lusting after Kate Middleton's ruffled hem Burberry trench ever since I saw it, but Burberry prices are not something I want to pay right now (plus that style sold out in a day, apparently, and I also missed getting the cheap knockoff). Even at half off the Kate Spade is expensive for me, but I think I'd get a lot of use out of it and it goes well with my style.

The only concern I have is the color. Yes, it is beige. I have been so worried that you won't like it on me and will say it's "soul-sucking beige". I know Asians aren't supposed to wear beige (or at least it's very tricky with our skin color). I would have preferred if the coat were cream. But it has a yellowish undertone (rather than grey) to the beige, so that's supposed to be good if I'm a warm toned Deep Autumn, right? I tried to take several pics in different kinds of lighting so you can get an idea, but it's tough to photograph the true color. Also, I'm hoping you won't say it's too voluminous/overwhelming on my frame. I do also have a cream and black cropped trench jacket from WHBM, but I just love the drama of a long trench coat! I really am curious (and nervous) of what you will think of this coat on me!

And GirlX and Zap--can't wait to see more pics of you in your trenches so I can get more inspiration!

The handbag is vinyl (so it's vegan for those who are looking for such a bag), and has a cool neon orange lining. I really like the structured satchel shape.

I am so happy I found these two pieces to complete my "set"! I wore 1-6 to work (but kept the tags on the coat). So what do you think--are these keepers? They were 50% off and final sale, so if you really hate the coat I would have to either beg Kate Spade to take it back for store credit (I've done that once before but it's not guaranteed) or sell it on eBay. Nervously awaiting your verdict!

1-6. With KS Austin matching dress
7. Raspberry H&M cardigan
8-11. With WHBM striped top and Gap real skinny pants and All Black Fish Bow pumps
12-14. With rust Ann Taylor tank and Always Skinny jeans and rust Chie Mihara sandals.
15. No flash, indoors
16. Flash, indoors
17. Outdoors
18-20. Melinda purse