Dahlia's military coat

Although in sunny Los Angeles it's burning hot in mid-November (I spotted people in tanks, shorts, and flip flops this afternoon), in other parts of the world, it's officially wintertime. And there's no better time to search for the best cold weather coat you can find. While I'm still making do with last year's black-and-white Alice + Olivia find, this lovely Dahlia black military coat has caught my eye and strikes me as something Gossip Girl's Blair would wear with red tights and her signature flats. The coat is super feminine with flared sleeves and a full skirt, and clocks in at a fabulously affordable $119 (plus 20 cents to be exact, since we're converting from the British pound). The huge military buttons are such a great addition, and I can see this coat going anywhere from shopping in downtown to a great cover-up for your going-out dress at night!

On Sale: Smythe les Vestes' chic coat

The most amazing deal has just come to my attention: this Smythe les Vestes tie neck coat. It is my humble opinion that this beautiful wool jersey jacket is the epitome of easy elegance. The 3/4-length sleeves keep it youthful, while the attached ivory-colored tie and funnel neck are undeniably sophisticated. From its original price of $660 to its currently sale price of $195, it's a steal. Take note of the impeccable tailoring, the contrasting colors. The model pictured looks so chic with her pulled back hair and the coat thrown over skinny dark jeans and plain black shoes. Such a perfect look for walking down the street in crisp fall weather, arm in arm with your man.

My fab find from the Barney's warehouse sale

Crippling buyer's remorse could easily set in at any moment, but I'm resisting the urge to feel guilty over what I feel is a truly fabulous find. My friend and I drove to Santa Monica yesterday to explore the racks on the very last day of the Barney's Warehouse sale. As the final hour approached, I found myself clutching desperately at a gorgeous L'Wren Scott matador jacket, originally priced at $4000 and about 85% off. After a great deal of vacillating on my part and relentless urging from both my friend and the cashiers, I decided to throw caution to the winds and make the pricey purchase, no small feat when you're living off a writer's salary. But the coat is a truly gorgeous creation. Straight off the Fall 2007 L'Wren Scott ready-to-wear runway, the coat, in thick, high quality fabric, is shorter in the front with a long pleated tailcoat in back--a very majestic matador style that evokes visions of mystery and dark romance. A mandarin collar and intricate buttons are some of the few details that enhance a sharply elegant cut. It fits like a dream, as if it were tailored specifically for my body, and projects that goth-y high fashion look which is perfect for fall. I've never felt quite so wonderful about spending so much money before...

By the way, the picture will never, ever do the coat justice. This beauty must be seen, felt, and touched in person for full appreciation.