Coats for The Pale: Anything But Black

I love this time of year. Chilly weather gives me a valid excuse to snuggle in my blanket and drink tea. i also have a soft spot for winter coats. A good coat lifts the winter blues and makes you want to prance around downtown.

But you know what's not-so-good? Boring black coats. Sure, they "go with everything", but that's really not the point. A coat doesn't need to go with everything. It wants to stand out. It yearns to say, "put me on and feel festive!" And are you really telling me that a red pea coat is going to clash with your enormous denim collection? No, it won't and you know it.

So, here are my picks for anything-but-boring winter coats in colors that are perfect for The Pale:

A Burberry-esque (or "Furberry" [Faux Burberry], if you will) pea coat is unexpected and smart. Avoid large patterns if you are petite.

Gorgeous Periwinkle evokes bluebirds and spring. Just the ticket to get you through the Winter Blues. Waistband gives a covetous hourglass figure. Avoid large hip pockets if you are pear-shaped.

Military styling adds wit to this grape-hued pea coat.

Olive drab gives the ladylike buttons and puffed shoulders a bit of an edge. Avoid shoulder details when yours are broad.

Perfect over comfy cords or an LBD, this skirted red number is feminine and a little retro. Think: Grace Kelly.

A modern pea coat with wide-set buttons and a stunning emerald shade is perfect for just about anyone.

A funnel-neck is a great way to combat the cold, especially if you can't stand wearing scarves. Short neck? Avoid.

Faux fur and a ridiculously cute flared skirt make this coat perfect for nights on the town. Marilyn would've done it.

Vertical ruffles elongate and the belt cinches. Perfect for large frames and plus-sizes.

Nautical-inspired toggles add interest to a casual red coat. Minimal pockets and lack of cuffs make this a great option for tomboys and girls who are more straight up-and-down.

Military buttons and pockets, edgy funnel neck and shoulders, feminine color. For the girl who wants everything.

It's no secret that I love menswear. Make a classic men's overcoat look less like you borrowed it off a bum and more like you did it on purpose by choosing one in a bold color.

Simple, English Country Elegance. Works for everyone.