I love the color on this--- My only thing would to be wondering if you might be slightly more flattered with a trench with a bit of a more open neckline even when closed up, like the paprika one. I think madewell tends to be quite expensive for shoppers like you and I, so I'd really want you to be super happy with it.

I love the Madewell trench on you, Rae, and think it will be a hard act to follow. I don't believe you are actually supposed to belt most trenches? I think you're supposed to tie the belt loosely in the back, or let the belt dangle in front. In any case, even belted, this really looks good on you in these pics.

Elly, you are very right that Madewell is expensive for me. Part of me balks that I could get something like Karen Millen or Burberry on Ebay for not much more... event though who knows if those would fit and flatter anyway. I agree with you that I want it to be a 10 to keep.

IK, it IS a tough act to follow, what with Angie's approval and so many of yours. Plus brown trenches remind me of my favorite comic character! The *back* is what's hanging me up ATM. I went to study the pic online and saw that they styled it to have little pleats in the back. I am going to try this when I get home. I could even sew the pleats down If that ended up doing the trick.

Wow! Trench showdowns!!! This is so much fun!

Rae, I'm torn. I still love this coat on you. And I don't think the paper bag issue is such an issue, really. I DO see the problem with the belt, however. That would bug me, too. I wonder if you could find out...maybe they have given the wrong size belt with the coat. Or maybe you can nab a LARGE belt?

But it sounds as if it just doesn't feel perfect for you. So I look forward to seeing the paprika on you as well.

And now I am tempted to stop into BR when I'm in TO to try their trench as well. At $140 dollars more than the LF one I have already bought, it would have to be a LOT better. But. Zapotee has very good judgement on these issues!

@Suz: This is quite a compliment especially coming from you. I do like the BR trench but cannot see how it could possibly top off your beautiful trench. I just happen to have a similar body shape as Rae so I think the BR might fit her well.

I like the coat on you but now I saw the picture of the paprika one and I really want to see that on you. That color would be so very lovely on you!

The trench is beautiful on you, Rae, and I love how it fits. I'm looking forward to seeing it in paprika!

Rae, not to add anymore complexity to the mix, but have you seen this Talbot's trench in grenadine (a reddish)? It comes in petites and starts at a size 2, has a zip-out vest lining, and is on sale currently. Might be worth a gander...

Thanks, Jonesy! That would be a good red for me! The paprika should be here Monday, so if I still feel iffy after that, I may have to try this one.

I like the trench in the neutral brown color. I like trenches to be more classic, and to wear bright, or printed, or UWP thing underneath. Then scrunch the sleeves and wear it open.