In this bi-weekly series, our editors will show you the items they're "wearing to death," whether it's a basic white T-shirt or an ultra-trendy jumpsuit. Get yourself (and your credit card) ready for guilt-free shopping.

About three years ago, having just moved to New York from Florida, I spent a year and a half of winter shopping for a coat (don't ask me how I survived the commute in a turtleneck and light down jacket (opens in new tab).) I can't believe that finding a coat (opens in new tab) that lasts and is warm (opens in new tab) doesn't cost $1000 and doesn't look like a burrito. And that's exactly what happened a few weeks later when I received a Free People velvet trench coat (opens in new tab).

When I opened the box containing my beautiful Free People trench coat (a gift from the brand), I couldn't believe how lucky I was to not be wearing a coat. With its shiny navy and charcoal gray velvet exterior, this coat looks (and feels!) like a dream. . It has pockets at the hip and could easily be a duster if not for the three embroidered metal buttons. Even when buttoned up, a slit at the hem allows passersby to peek at the paisley lining.

Since making this coat mine, I've worn it to team holiday parties, to dinner with friends, to the bar, to everything. And I get compliments every time. I get so many compliments that I often don't take it off indoors and let the coat take center stage. I would wear it with a sweater dress, a slip dress over a long-sleeved shirt, or a thin turtleneck and jeans. This coat is a little small in the armpits, so it is best not to wear too many layers underneath. While it's not exactly the warmest outerwear (happily, I now own a winter coat that I can wear in sub-40 degree weather (opens in new tab)), it's the only coat I own that makes me feel pretty and put together. However, I need to strategically choose the days to wear it, such as when the temperature is below 20 degrees Celsius.

For more stories like this, including celebrity news, beauty and fashion advice, savvy political commentary, and fascinating features, sign up for the Marie Claire newsletter.

Click here to register (opens in new tab)