Belted trench coat

I think I missed the belt-all-the-things phase that happened in 2012 (was it 2012? 2011? I'm not even sure...I did not follow fashion at ALL back then except for mimicking what I saw my peers wearing). I'm quite glad that I did, actually, since I cringe looking back at those looks! Even though belting may be a little outdated now, I still like belting dresses every once in a while, and I've found a few belted looks that caught my eye--one of which I wore last month and one I'm planning on wearing as soon as the weather cooperates!

In addition, I've seen lots of outfits which include belted coats. At first, I didn't understand why you would belt a coat with a regular pants belt, but then I fell in love with the look and had to give it a try myself. I think this look works best when you're out and about but not planning on removing your coat (or even undoing the belt). Plus, belting coats doesn't seem as outdated as belting dresses or tops (but what do I know, I don't live in a "fashion capital"). Of course, I felt the need to match my shoes to my belt. Matching belts and shoes won't ever look outdated...right?

Ellen Tracy coat via Nordstrom (similar; similar long trench) / Madewell jeans, boots (on sale!), and scarf / J.Crew belt (on sale!) / Anthropologie sunglasses / Neutrogena MoistureSmooth Color Stick in soft raspberry