This week’s post shines a spotlight on another truly fabulous fashion find that I was lucky enough to snag—all in the name of a wonderful cause. Shopping to benefit causes is not something new around here especially if you’ve read my other posts starting with my first one here. More recently, I wrote about the purple Alberto Makali gown that I bid on—and won—from Goodwill Central Coast but during a recent shopping excursion on Ebay, I stumbled upon a stunning designer trench coat that immediately caught my eye. Designed by beloved fashion icon, Michael Kors, it’s purple snakeskin fabric exudes timeless elegance. It’s the kind of outerwear that effortlessly elevates any outfit, whether I’m dressed up for an event or keeping it casual on the weekends.

What makes this discovery even more special is the story behind it. Every single penny I spent went directly toward supporting vital community programs run by a widely known and respected international charity, the Salvation Army. Knowing that my stylish purchase also contributed to such meaningful work brings an extra layer of joy every time I wear it or see it hanging in my closet.

And let’s talk value—this trench coat, which would usually retail for over a hundred and fifty dollars at full price, was priced incredibly affordably at this online shop. It’s proof that you don’t need to break the bank to own high quality, luxury pieces. This find perfectly blends compassion, trends, and smart shopping. Honestly, what more could anyone ask for? A wardrobe win that looks good, feels good, and does good? Sign me up every time.

Fashion Math

Michael Kors known for both his couture collections and everyday fashion making him a popular designer. With many of his items selling in department stores, the average cost of a Michael Kors trench coat is between $150.00 and $300.00 with some prices hitting as high as $400.00 depending on the style. Not only is Michael’s brand beloved by many shoppers for it’s timeless elegance but it is frequently sought after as an affordable luxury staple of the middle class.

This brand may not hold as much monetary significance as a rarer designer pieces but the sheer demand and recognizable branding means that Michael Kors items typically hold their resale value with a potential small decrease depending on condition. What does this mean? It means that you may not make as much off of reselling Michael Kors items as you might a more expensive brand name but they will sell and probably sell fast if you were to relist a previous purchase on the market. If you were selling Versace and Michael Kors at the same time, you’d most likely make quicker money off the Michael Kors—that’s just fashion math.

As a label and marketing genius, Michael Kors has skyrocketed to become a household name—not just as a designer but as a successful businessman. This has caused the demand of his products to remain high despite the lower prices and accessibility when compared to other major fashion houses who pride themselves on luxury. It’s simple: the demand for this brand remains high, extending far beyond the world of fashion to ordinary people just looking to buy quality. Shoppers who don’t even know much about fashion at all know about Michael. This opens up a whole other market for the average customer that’s often lost by more exclusive names.

The Coat

This elegant, long-sleeved trench coat by the renowned aforementioned luxury brand Michael Kors is a standout piece that blends sophistication with practicality. Crafted in vibrant purple snakeskin that fades into shades of gray and black, the coat exudes a bold yet timeless aesthetic, perfect for making a statement while maintaining a polished look. We all know by now that animal prints never fall out of fashion favor, making this a good addition to any wardrobe. Advertised as used but in good condition, this piece was gently cared for and preserved by it’s previous owner, with no visible signs of wear or damage to the collar, seams, or interior lining—testament to its durable construction and mindful investment.

What sets this coat apart is its included matching belt, a feature notably absent in many preloved trench coats. The belt’s matching texture complements the coat seamlessly, offering a functional yet fashionable way to cinch the waist and enhance the trench’s signature silhouette. This not only preserves the coat’s original design integrity but also ensures it’s ready to wear straight out of the box, eliminating the need for a separate belt search. Not to mention that if you plan to resell a garment like this in the future, you can command closer to the original retail price with all matching accessories like the belt.

Designed for versatility, the coat’s knee-length cut and structured shoulders provide a flattering, elongating fit for a variety of body types. Its long sleeves and classic styling—detailed with smart flap pockets, a buttoned front, and a breathable lining—make it an ideal year-round layering staple with the potential to see you through many seasons. The snakeskin fabric adds a subtle sheen, while the purple hue is versatile enough to pair with neutral tones or bold prints, adapting effortlessly to both professional and casual settings. Whether draping over a midi dress in spring or layering over a sweater and jeans in autumn, this coat bridges the seasonal gap with ease. This piece merges high-fashion flair with thoughtful practicality. It’s not just a coat—it’s a curated capsule of luxury.

Repurpose for a purpose

Over the years, I’ve discovered that aligning my purchasing habits with causes I care about isn’t just a passing trend—it’s become a meaningful part of my identity. Whether it’s buying secondhand designer pieces to channel funds into humanitarian nonprofits, or selecting vintage accessories to support local art galleries, the idea of merging personal style with social good has grown into an ongoing passion. This practice, which began as an occasional experiment in conscious consumerism, has now transformed into a regular ritual. It’s only fitting that I start chronicling my finds in a recurring blog to document these choices, not only to track my journey but to spark a dialogue about the power of mindful shopping.

At its core, this series is rooted in the belief that fashion doesn’t have to just be for yourself, it can be for your community too. By highlighting the value of charitable shopping—it’s a form of rebellion against a consumer driven system that prioritizes profit over people and the greater good. What better way to give back than to use that consumerism in support of much needed outreach. The ripple effect is tangible: a single article of clothing becomes a conversation starter, a lesson in philanthropy and a catalyst for deeper empathy.

Ultimately, I continue this series because I believe in the power of small, intentional choices to create systemic change. Every charity purchase is a reminder that we are not separate from the world around us—our wardrobes can be extensions of our values. By documenting these moments of alignment between personal style and purpose, I hope to inspire others to view their own closets not just as a collection of items, but as a platform for action. After all, when we shop with intention, we don’t just express ourselves; we invest in a future where fashion is a force for connection, not just consumption.

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