You went to a lot of work to find just the right trench, and I'd say it was totally worth the hassle - this latest trench is 'the one.' It fits you beautifull, and yeah - I can tell it's better quality than the others you've tried.

I still have a bit of a soft spot for the Gallery trench in citron, just because that colour was so amazing on you, but the fit wasn't 100% right...too bad. Agghh...that one was pretty nice too.

This J. Crew trench though...is *to die for*on you. Not only is it a great colour...the fit is just perfect.

I'm going to remember this for a long, long time - how you didn't have a ton of time to find just the right trench, but you didn't settle - you tried a whole bunch of stuff, and came out with something truly fab. YAY!

GORGEOUS!!!

Happy sigh. I love a good ending!!

This one really looks superb on you, Rae. And I'm so glad you have TWO great trenches. You look wonderful in both.

I am very keen on getting the spy one in the blue if it ever comes back. I will be keeping my eye on it.

Hank is so beautiful. I hope he has a good kitty-sitter while you and hubby are gone. He will miss you!!

Rae, that is a beaut, and no mistake! So worth all the hassles and heartburn!

I know the differences sound like little things --- but they add up to a BIG improvement in real life. Just look at how this one seems sleek and tailored in the last photo, vs the other one standing away from your body frockishly, or how the larger stiffer belt overwhelms your waist rather than the way this one emphasizes it!

And delighted to hear about leather-covered hardware --- not as weather-proof, but for a dress coat, such pleasure!

Now rest up and get back to 100% for your trip. You'll need your energy to face all the excitement!

Zap, I could not have done this without your trench wisdom. That gem about the lining affecting the drape of the coat encouraged me to keep looking even though the Madewell was almost there.

Suz, I see the blue available in small! And XL, if anyone else happens to be looking.

Manidipa, can I tell you how relieved I was that you and others could see what I saw? Every now and then I doubt my eyes and wonder if I'm being swayed by the label, the price, the color... thank goodness we can "poll the audience" here.

This was a real education for me in both fit and patience! Congratulations, Rae!

Oh, VC, I meant to say thank you to you as well for your kind comment! I sort of did this with this year's boot purchase as well - returned so many! But in the end I'm glad because I love my Fryes to bits. It has been a real learning experience for me, too. I got so used to a grab-whatever-fits mentality for so long. The citron was painful to send back... but there is more citron than usual this year. Maybe another style will find me at the end of season... or maybe in a few more years!

This one is stunning on you Rae.

Oftentimes when in gear we do not want to bother with a purse.

Get some rest and stay healthy for your trip...