Erin Dean, 35
Los Angeles
Fashions come and go in Erin Dean’s closet, which she fills with of-the-moment pieces. But for eight years one item has held a steadfast position: her treasured wool coat, an unusual creation from the Italian label Marni.

What drew the fashion public-relations executive to the coat? A reasonable price, given its designer pedigree ($300 on sale) and unexpected versatility. “The color gives it a modern feel but at the same time is a great neutral,” says Erin. “The coat upgrades my entire look,” whether it’s worn with jeans or a dress. That, plus its staying power, is the boost you get with a statement coat. And when a wardrobe is all about blink-and-it’s-over fashion, who couldn’t use a little timeless style?