A great coat is the ultimate winter fashion essential. First impressions count: If you have a stylish coat this winter, you'll be way ahead of the fashion game. Wear it over just about anything, and you can transform your wardrobe.

Now's the perfect time to browse the outerwear sales and buy the best you can afford. Hopefully, you'll wear that new coat for years to come.

Here are the latest trends to check out:

— The Updated Trench: Always a classic, this year's silhouettes are modernized with big belts, stand-up collars, embossed textures and iridescent satin. The newest trenches are chic enough to dress up your wardrobe basics for day or evening occasions.

— The Military-Inspired Coats: In wool, tweed or cashmere, these toppers — often double-breasted — are lining up with attention-getting details like large buttons, empire-style waists and pleated hems. Another coat classic, these styles are worth a splurge.

— The Bold-Colored Coat: One shot of hot pink, cobalt blue or emerald green, and you have outerwear that stands out from the black crowd. Why not boost your spirits by donning one of these colorful style statements this winter? Lighter-weight toppers can make a great look for holiday parties.

— The Cropped Jacket: Whether it's a plaid pea coat, a leather motorcycle jacket or a quilted bomber jacket, the short hip-length coat is a casual favorite this fall and winter. Layered over longer sweaters and T-shirts, it's the perfect topper for jeans.

— The Barrel Coat: A little roomier than more fitted coats, this silhouette shows off a fuller cut and flared sleeves. A great look over bulkier sweaters and knits.

— The Sweater Coat: A versatile option, especially when the weather isn't icy cold or when you want maximum coverage in a chilly office. The cable-knit cardigan abounds on the racks this season mostly in knee-lengths, often trimmed with fur collars.

— The Cozy Capes: Add some real flair to your closet with a new cape this fall and winter. Forget the old poncho honchos. Go for an elegant cashmere cape trimmed in fur and draped over skinny pants or leggings; it is a great way to be covered for the holidays.

Sharon Mosley is a former fashion editor of the Arkansas Gazette in Little Rock and executive director of the Fashion Editors and Reporters Association. To find out more about Sharon Mosley and read features by other Creators Syndicate writers and cartoonists, visit the Creators Syndicate website at www.creators.com.

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