I have one of those coats/ jackets jane! It is pale lilac, with discreet gold threads running through it, and, again, about once a year, it is perfect with black trousers and slinky top.
I found, when we were leading quite a hectic sort of public life, that the black top and trousers combination, with a variety of lovely jackets, served almost every occasion. (I have jackets from all over the world!)
The other thing I learned was to try to be comfortable at the same time, so shoes had to be the type in which I could walk, as well as looking good. Black, to concentrate attention on the colours in the jackets, and, occasionally, hats. But that is another co - ordination story!