Ports 1961
Ports 1961 designer Tia Cibani channeled the past of India’s Nughal Dynasty for her Fall 2009 designs. I really like this beige coat dress for the office and beyond as it can be accessorized in a multitude of ways. And I love the gloves, which were a dominant accessory on the Ports runway.
This isn’t a work appropriate outfit unless you work at Studio 54, but the one-shouldered pantsuit was definitely a highlight of the collection.
Zac Posen
If you must be bundled up to ward off the cold, you can do it stylishly in this coat by a designer, who is well known for his red carpet looks. Say no to the puffy coat and yes to Posen.
The slightly poofy sleeves and shoulders, and the tightly cinched waist of the suit jacket makes what could be another boring suit into a conversation piece. If available, I’d wear this with a pencil skirt instead of trousers to make the ultimate power suit.
Christian Siriano
This oatmeal coat by the winner of the most recent season of “Project Runway” is more subdued than his usual hues. The cocoon shape is flattering for many figures — especially pear-shaped ladies. Since I am obsessed with gloves this season, I would pair this coat with the Ports 1961 over-the-elbow gloves.
Deborah Creighton Skinner is the editorial director at BlackEnterprise.com.