Thursday's Work-Appropriate Clothing Item: Brooks Brothers Trench

I know it's the beginning of summer and the last clothing item you want to consider is outerwear. But this trench is on sale and still available in many sizes. And its from Brooks Brothers. And its vegan. And its shapely, which is the problem I tend to have with most Brooks Brothers and similar trenches. And its short, which is my favorite length for a trench. So, I am posting.

The trench comes in the pictured khaki and a mellow sage. It's made from a cotton and lycra blend with a matching fabric covered belt and, importantly, faux horn buttons. The trench originally was $268; it is on sale for $134. Find it here.

Vegan Purchase: Black Trench

To continue with the trench theme-of-the-day, I purchased this Style&co "Polished Double-Breasted" trench coat from Macy's a couple week ago. I especially liked the length and the belt that can be worn tied or buckled. It also has cute detailing at the cuffs. I wore it a couple times before the winter weather returned; it's perfect for milder spring-like days and looks great with jeans or a full-suit. My only qualm with it is that it thinks I have more of a chest than I really do, though that's not surprising -- at least there is enough room to fit a suit jacket underneath.

The trench is made from cotton, polyester, and spandex. It is originally $99.00; I got it for 40% off ($59.40); it is now on sale for $49.50 (50% off). Find it here.

Thursday's Work Appropriate Clothing Item: Trenches

From Target, of all places, because they are classic, yet trendy and look very well-made in person.

My favorite is the Merona Ottoman Trench with trim in deep navy -- although, it might not go with every outfit you wear to work. Medium weight; perfect for cooler spring days; made from cotton with polyester lining. I especially enjoy the two rows of contrast piping down the back and the funnel neck. The trench is $54.99; here.

For a more classic look, I suggest the Merona Long Double-Breasted Trench. It comes in the pictured black and off white. Made from cotton and nylon with polyester lining. The trench is on sale for $27.99 (originally $34.99 -- 20% off). Find the black here and the off white here.

The trench also comes in a slightly shorter version in a wide variety of colors: black, khaki, yellow, rose, navy, and green. The slightly shorter version is $39.99.