The Ashley Olsen Approach to Styling Simple Black Coats to Appear Chic, Not Dull
On Monday night, the prominent figures of American fashion and beyond gathered to honor one another at the CFDA Awards, held at the American Museum of Natural History in New York City's Upper West Side. Among the guests were multiple CFDA award winners Mary-Kate and Ashley Olsen, the co-creative directors and founders of The Row, who once again claimed the title of American Accessory Designer of the Year. Their attendance was uncertain, but they arrived and, as always, looked incredibly stylish as they took the stage to deliver a brief but heartfelt speech after their win. For the event, they wore matching tailored black coats, with Ashley accessorizing in a standout manner. Specifically, Ashley donned a sharply tailored black maxi coat from The Row, named the Erdene Coat, which was priced at $5,500 before selling out. However, the most extravagant part of her CFDA ensemble was the $65,000 diamond-and-jadeite brooch from Cartier, which, according to Macklowe Gallery, was created in 1928. This addition elevated her outfit, keeping it simple yet infusing it with purpose and intrigue. Just like that, adding a brooch to a black coat transformed a basic outerwear piece into something chic and stylish.
(Image credit: Shutterstock) On Ashley Olsen: The Row Erdene Coat ($5500); Cartier Art Deco Jadeite and Diamond Brooch ($65000)
As winter approaches, the desire to shop for coats in a variety of shapes, styles, colors, and patterns begins to surface. One coat never seems sufficient, but perhaps 2025 will change that perspective. Ashley's CFDA appearance demonstrates that by attaching a brooch, whether it's a simple gold or silver piece or something more decorative, to your black coat, it can become a statement item. While it may not be as bold as a leopard-print or bright-green coat, it certainly gets the job done. Below, explore options for black coats and brooches that will keep you looking sophisticated and polished this winter with minimal effort.
Shop Black Coats and Brooches
ZARA
Wool Blend Coat Zw Collection
J.Crew
Round Crystal Brooch
The Row
Arista Coat in Virgin Wool
ZARA
Pack of 2 Safety Pin Brooches
Heaven Mayhem
Twist Skinny Brooch
MANGO
Metallic Flower Brooch
ABADIA
Joud Crushed Velvet-Trimmed Wool-Blend Twill Coat
J.Crew
Leaf Crystal Brooch
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The Ashley Olsen Approach to Styling Simple Black Coats to Appear Chic, Not Dull
It's incredibly simple, but highly significant.
