I agree that you should keep looking, but I have a friend who uses purple as her neutral. It works very well with most colors but especially with berry tones if you wear them. My favorite trench is bright Barbie pink. Color is great on a grey day.

Glad you tried it on! Now you have a better idea on what you would like length and style wise. If you only need a coat every so often it might be good to get a classic in a neutral colour. Take that with a grain of salt as I am a very neutrals person. I just think it might have more longevity that way.

I have always thought a classic camel trench would be ideal. Though when I have tried them on I have been disappointed in how the colour looks on me. I guess I need to try some more : )

..joining this one a little late....and I know you have already decided...but thought I'd comment that I bought a short trench several years ago in a light blue/grey which is just about my favorite color to wear. It is not quite a classic color, and might or might not be on-trend from year to year but I absolutely love it, it goes with a lot, and I can't imagine every parting with it. I do need an outerwear wardrobe for four seasons, which I think you said you do not, so makes sense for me. I also think there is something to be said for buying "keeper" items in colors you adore...even if they otherwise don't seem practical.

Thank you Chris 987. I'm glad to hear you get great pleasure out of a coat in "your" colour. You're right, I didn't buy this trench, but I will keep my eye out. IF I happened to see it at half price then I would be tempted again! I still love that colour.

I can't see the pics!

I also find coats hard Helen, you are not alone. I think you made the right call here, next time!

Oh, Angie, the pics were awful dressing room ones with poor lighting and a stumpifying skirt-and-shoe combination. I didn't want them hanging around any longer! I will be patient and keep looking.

Sally, thanks for commenting. I need a coat so infrequently, I want one that serves every purpose. Which is impossible, right?