The Ashley Olsen Method for Styling Simple Black Coats to Appear Chic Rather Than Dull

      On Monday night, prominent figures in American fashion and beyond gathered at the CFDA Awards, held at the American Museum of Natural History in New York City's Upper West Side. Among those present were multiple CFDA award winners Mary-Kate and Ashley Olsen, the co-creative directors and founders of The Row, who once again won the award for American Accessory Designer of the Year. There was uncertainty about their attendance, but they showed up, both looking incredibly stylish as they took the stage to deliver a brief but heartfelt speech after their victory. For the event, they donned matching tailored black coats, with Ashley adding a particularly 2025 touch to her look. Specifically, Ashley wore a sharply tailored black maxi coat from The Row, known as the Erdene Coat, priced at $5,500 before it sold out, though that wasn’t the most extravagant element of her CFDA ensemble. Adjacent to her coat’s left lapel was a breathtaking $65,000 diamond-and-jadeite brooch by Cartier, crafted in 1928, as noted by Macklowe Gallery, which currently has it for sale. This addition elevated her outfit, keeping its simplicity while injecting a sense of purpose and intrigue. Just like that, adding a brooch to a black coat transformed a common piece into something chic rather than ordinary.

      (Image credit: Shutterstock)On Ashley Olsen: The Row Erdene Coat ($5500); Cartier Art Deco Jadeite and Diamond Brooch ($65000)As winter approaches, many are tempted to shop for coats in various shapes, styles, colors, and patterns. One coat often feels insufficient, but perhaps 2025 will change that perspective. Ashley's CFDA look demonstrates that adding a brooch—be it a simple gold or silver style or something more elaborate—to your black coat creates a standout piece. While it may not compete with a leopard-print or bright-green coat in terms of flair, it certainly makes a statement. Below, explore options for black coats and brooches, the perfect combination to keep you looking elegant and sophisticated 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