Added pics of the trench. Y'all have to forgive the crumpled look (and the dire lighting situation) - you wouldn't believe how long it took me to get home.
I noticed some things, as I was taking the pics and paying closer attention: 1) I've lost weight since I bought the jacket (years ago); it doesn't fit as well. 2) It's a little worse for wear. It's got some spots, like acid was thrown on it. 3) I like this jacket not because it sharpens outfits, but because it takes some of the sting out.
Re. the last point - I've been working on Country Punk Goes To The Office. I'm wearing faux leather trousers today. They need both dressing up and dressing down, if you know what I mean.
abc - I do think you have diagnosed the problem correctly. When I look at it, I style it in my imagination most unimaginatively. Sort of Santa Barbara Stepford Wife... I.e., Stepford Wife without the florals. It's impossible for me to wear it that way, but that's what I see when I look at it on a hanger.