Hermes brought a new twist to the trench coat by putting hoods on these classics. What you get is a superbly warm, cute, all wrapped up look that looks undeniably cool. Pair that with a wool scarf and warm trousers.

How long should your trench coat be?

Knee length or calf length?

Long or short? Ankle length or mid thigh?

A full, knee length trench coat like the one at Hermes, which wraps your body beautifully is as flattering as a wrap dress. A warm, very feminine, alternative to a dress in the bitter gold.

Each has its pros and cons. All go beautifully with everything. from dresses to jeans. From work wear to your evening dress. Preferably, get a trench that is longer than your dresses.

If you are short, a knee length coat would be more appropriate, as would shorter dresses. A too long trench coat would overpower your frame.

If you are tall, go for a calf length length dress as it is more elegant and you have the height to carry it well.

The trench is a classic. Did you know you could base an entire capsule wardrobe on that single trench coat?

To begin with the trench coat is a classic that has stood the test of time. Pop culture loves trench coats. From Dick Tracy to The Matrix Trilogy. A trenchcoat is the epitome of cool. Wear it with sunglasses for that uber-cool look. Once upon a time, a trench coat was purely outerwear. Now, it has become indoor wear as well. You can wear your trench coat on its own as a sexy wrap dress.

Now as the basis of you capsule wardrobe, all you need is a trench coat. If you are petite, go for a knee length trench coat. If you are tall, go for a calf length trench coat.

What else should you get?

If your existing clothes fit you, keep them. Use the trench coat to revamp your look.

Your favourite pair of jeans.

A pair of tailored trousers

A pencil skirt

A pretty blouse.

A camisole

A white shirt.

A dress that is slightly shorter than your trench coat.

Mix and match these with your new trench coat for a brand new look.

Wear the dress with your trench coat, leaving the coat open to show off the dress.

Wear the trench coat on its own as a wrap dress, with sexy lingerie.

Wear the trench coat over a sweater and jeans on a cold day out.

Wear a pencil skirt and pretty blouse under your open trench coat.

Wear a camisole an trousers with your trench.

Mix and match your capsule wardrobe for a myriad of cool outfits, given a lift with that gorgeous trench.