The rain was lovely on that lazy afternoon last Sunday. But now you're walking into a client meeting drenched from a surprise downpour, painfully aware your white blouse is now see-through and wishing you hadn't foregone the jacket today. Not chic – or professional! Maybe it's time to stock up on some rain gear (including something to keep in the car) for those fall showers.
 
So this is what you need in your work-appropriate rain arsenal to stay dry fashionably, according to Robanne Schulman, wardrobe consultant for Top 100 companies like UPS and the Weather Channel, and founder of Plaid Monkey.

"A well-tailored black or khaki waterproof trench-coat is very classic, very chic," says Schulman. "Plus, they're warm and, in these colors, will match most anything."
 
For your feet, Schulman recommends Wellies rain boots. "You can wear a business suit with them and put your pumps on when you get into the office."
 
"Accessorize with a fabulous but sturdy umbrella," and you are ready to go! We like these from L.L. Bean and Burberry.

- published 10/23/09, The Little Pink Book
 

More tips on how to work with fall trends for the office
on PinkTV's Minute Mentoring with Robanne - click here!

Now that we've given you the top trends, many of you have asked how to put it all together...or how can you wear it to work, play and night? There are an abundance of options out there, but we've given you a quick cheat sheet below to inspire you!

Many people shy away from red, but if you put it back to grey tones it gives it more of a subtle look, yet pair it back to black for a slightly stronger look or simply just sport a red jacket back to jeans, pants or a skirt depending on whether it is for work or play!


 
Fall is all about leather this season, but how can you sport leather to the office? Others want to know a great day look and we've also had some requests for a "how-to" for evening...
 
This first jacket with the leather lapels is just enough for the office without going overboard and the leather bustier is perfect for cocktail.  And you can always pair a sportier jacket back to a pencil skirt and still be office appropriate.


 
Fur was also one of our top trends mentioned and we've found a triple threat item that can go anywhere. FUR REAL PEOPLE! This black wool-blend jacket with a sumptuously soft detachable rabbit fur vest lining is a luxe urban twist on an outdoor classic. Wear this versatile jacket over a simple tank and jeans or as a chic city coat draped over a tailored trouser. Wear the jacket alone until it's cold enough to sport fur, wear the whole combo or just wear the vest alone for a sportier look!


 
Military evening, work and play looks below!



Wanna sport the thigh high boot? First, you've got to be over 5"3 (that counts me out) and if you are lucky enough to be so then put them back to a skniny pant with a draped leather jacket for a chic well proportioned office look.  For you more petite ladies like myself, the knee high boot is just as sexy and has the same "WOW" factor.

The first picture (also shown above) is a great example of how to sport the cut-out bootie/heel this fall and you can be ANY height to wear this one. So whatever your heels this season, kick 'em up ladies because it's time to show them off!

Robanne,

You did too good of a job!  LOL!!!  I am laughing right now...However...

I just went to the grocery store, AND WAS ROBBED!!!!!!!!!!!!!  LOL no kidding! I swear, I looked too put together!  Totally targeted.  Whew! I have to say, If I were wearing my hobo-self uniform, it never would have happened!

So, Thanks for making me look worth being robbed!  LOLOLOL! Kudos to your skills!

Now, the odd part of the story...I just froze all of my bank accounts and credit cards.  So, the check I wrote you
(if you have not cashed it yet) may not cash until the accounts are secured.  For that I am so truly sorry!  Just for clarification, I do have the cash to pay you.  Please don't  worry about that.  

If you have any problem, I will make it right.  

Thanks for everything!
Carol