The new favorite.

On Friday I visited J. Crew's flagship in the Flatiron District to poke around the sale section and see what's new. Style director Jenna Lyons' sensibility about mixing high and low, new and old, fancy and casual, is a major source of inspiration for me, and while I cannot credit her with my discovery of the cargo short, my friends might certainly blame her for approving them as evening wear.

I love a deal and rarely purchase retail, preferring to hold out for sample and seasonal sales, but this jacket, the Boyfriend Fatigue in olive drab, practically leapt onto my back. I could not leave without it.

I have determined to wear it every single day for the rest of my life (or at least until spring bids adieu to jacket weather).

On Saturday night night I dressed it up with a skimpy LBD and black patent heels and gold hoops.

On Wednesday night I dressed it down for the L.L. Bean Signature Collection presentation with white jeans, platform peep toe brogues, and, most importantly, J. Crew's Lucite chandelier necklace. (When you hang with boys' club, it's very important to sparkle.)

I'll wear it in the summer with gold sequins.

I'll wear it in the winter with tartan and wool.

I have long needed a new sartorial security blanket, and this jacket most definitely fits the bill. I don't ever want to take it off. It gives the wearer instant street cred. What girl wouldn't look cool stomping down Chrystie Street in this tough coat and rich red lipstick, aviators hiding her eyes?

Note: Lovers of all things J.C. should add the J. Crew Aficionada to their daily reader.