After a brief hiatus (aka Halloween MADNESS) , I'm back, and ready for some winter fashion discussion. The most important thing on all our minds should be outerwear. Luckily, it's not too bad out there yet, but as Michigan residents, we know what's coming. If there is one thing that is a vital addition to your wardrobe, it's a great coat. I love the winter coat, and I think everyone should too. It's a special piece that you can really invest in, because you'll wear it every single day for at least 3-4 months, and if it's nice quality, maybe even for years to come. It is *the* single most important piece of clothing you will own during the fall, winter, and even early spring months. So make your choice a good one! Here are my favorites for this season.

A tried and true classic is the pea coat. It never goes out of style, but they keep improving it. I love this version from Anthropologie which has a little caplet style ruffle around the shoulders.

Marc Jacobs has a cute classic version that gets styled up with a bow belt.

The trench is another classic style that has been redone and revamped this season. Check out this gorgeous petal collar from Alice + Olivia. With a coat like this, you don't even need to worry about what scarf or hat to wear - oh unless you're more worried about actually keeping warm and not the need for extra styling. ;)

And yes, I am partial to black - it's classy, always in style, and goes with everything. However, beautiful rich hues such as deep red, burgundy or brown can work quite well. And if you trust yourself enough to stay clean, a beautiful white wool coat can be simply stunning.

If you have the budget to add special pieces to your winter wardrobe, go for something a little more daring and innovative. This Derek Lam cape would turn heads for miles during a winter stroll down State street. I am going to have a few capes in my Fall 2010 line as well. Yes, street fashion definitely needs to include more capes!

I have a special place in my heart for faux fur. I own three faux fur coats, and they are all definitely not every day wear, but when the occasion calls, I sure am delighted to pull them out of my closet. If you get a really good one, it can be just as beautiful as the real thing, without the price tag. Here is a gorgeous example from Jones New York, available at Nordstrom. You can also check out vintage shops and resale stores, which often carry some pretty nice ones. Just imagine a pair of leather gloves, dark sunglasses....a cappuccino. Feel like you're in italy yet? Dramatic coats are just so much fun.

And finally, as I'm sure is expected of me... the leather jacket. This one in particular made an appearance in my previous blog post. The leather jacket is not only classic and timeless, but it's warm and easy to layer. For those really bitter days with the 50mph winds, throw a sweater on under neath and a beautiful scarf, and you're good to go.

I admit it, I love winter fashion. During the summer months, when it comes to clothing, I am miserable. I have never been a sundress type of girl, and light colors are just not my thing. But once September comes around, I start getting really excited. There are so many ways to really be creative and let your personality come out. Clothing exists to protect us, and during these cooler months, we actually do need it - so why not really embrace that need and invest in a great coat that you'll love every time you put it on. Next time - accessories!

Kelly Tinsley is an Ann Arbor-based fashion designer who blogs about fashion and style for AnnArbor.com. You can visit her Web site at Kellylynne.com, email her at kellylynnetinsley@gmail.com, become a Facebook fan of her designs and follow her on Twitter.