In The Fashion Trenches

There are certain items every woman should have in her closet. Wardrobe staples that will never really go out of style, you always have a use for them and they'll take you from season to season to season.

Off the top of my head, I can think of at least 10. Last night my good friend Cara specifically asked me about the trench. As we were leaving dinner to go into the rainy, dreary night, she looked at me and said, "I'd like you to write a blog post about trench coats. I've always wanted one, I can never find one that looks good on me and I need some help." Tying the belt on my olive green trench, I assured her that her wish shall be granted.

Isn't it nice that she has her Fairy Shop Girl?

Finding a trench coat in and of itself isn't necessarily that difficult. Almost every retailer sells them, especially during spring. It's the quintessential overcoat for the season. However, finding one that looks good on your body is another animal.

Most trench coats are a double-breasted cut but can be hard to wear for larger busted women. Mostly because it only accentuates the bust area, making it look larger and in charger. But, if worn unbuttoned or at least not buttoned all the way up, you can create a more slimming silhouette out of something that is not usually so.

Cara's difficulty with her trench search is finding one that will work on her very small frame. At 5 feet tall, she has to be careful it doesn't swallow her up and make her little body disappear behind too much fabric. The classic trench should hit right above your knees for optimal wear.

For Cara and other petite ladies out there, styles like the ones below would be ideal. They're shorter than a traditional long trench and have some interesting detail to bring the eye up to the neckline, instead of down to the hemline.

As you can see, the double-breasted style is also less conventional with the funnel neck, making it more flattering at the bust line.

Ruffle Lapel Trench Coat

Ann Taylor Loft

$128

Funnel Neck Trench Coat

Gap

$98

Cotton Perfect Trench

Ann Taylor

$248

There are plenty of women who needn't worry about whether they can ride the big girl rides so for those of you looking for a classic cut with a little fashion flair, there are plenty of beautiful options too.

Ruffled Collar Trench Coat

AK Anne Klein

$105

Macy's

Spring Trench Coat

Sanctuary

$198

piperlime.com

Classic Trench

Banana Republic

$125

You still have two wishes left. Use them wisely. And no, you can't wish for more wishes!