Balmain Dress, Jimmy Choo Boots, Saks Fifth Ave Leather Coat, Tom Ford Clutch, Missoni Necklace, Celine Sunglasses.

I am always cold. I get chilled even here in Los Angeles, which is a bit odd since I grew up in one of the coldest places in North America, Winnipeg. That is why, when I saw this long sleeved black dress on sale at Saks, I immediately grabbed it and headed directly for the dressing room. While inside the room, I said a little prayer in hopes that it would fit…and it did. Not only was this dress warm and cozy, but it was by Balmain, (a very high end and chic French design house), and its price was reduced by 75%! Yay…..win, win and win!

One thing that we can get away with here in Los Angeles, is wearing a dress or skirt bare legged with a boot. This is something that I would never dream of doing on the east coast or Canada, but there is something chic and relaxed, and very LA about doing it.

My tried and true black leather coat, with the fur trim is my favorite thing to wear over a dress. It adds just the right amount of warmth for Los Angeles during the winter or colder climates during the spring or fall.

M. Missoni Dress, Giorgio Brato Leather Jacket, available at Savannah Santa Monica, Giuseppi Zanotti Heels, John Hardy Bracelet, Necklace and Earrings, Givenchy Handbag, similar for less here. — M. Missoni Dress, Giorgio Brato Leather Jacket, available at Savannah Santa Monica, Giuseppi Zanotti Heels, John Hardy Bracelet, Necklace and Earrings, Givenchy Handbag, similar for less here.

The juxtaposition of short over long is one of my favorite fashion formats. I have always loved the look of a long dress. If worn with heels, it is particularly elongating, (something that is handy for us shorter gals), and provides an extra layer of warmth, especially in the evenings. This one, by M Missoni, is great. The empire waist calls for a short Bolero jacket so as not to hide the waist-line detail of the dress. I had purchased this leather one (also seen here), by Giorgio Brato, a while back, and thankfully, I have been able to wear it many times. It is rare to find a cute bolero jacket; so when you do, I suggest that you jump on it. Adding edgy accessories completes the eclectic look of this outfit. So there you have it, that is the long and short of it! The End!