A coat and a black maxi dress are definitely worth adding to your list of true casual essentials.
Black Maxi Dress with Coat Smart Casual Cold Weather Outfits
This combination of a coat and a black maxi dress is super versatile and really apt for whatever the day throws at you. Make your ensemble slightly more refined by finishing off with a pair of black suede pumps.
A coat and a black maxi dress are the kind of a tested casual ensemble that you need when you have no extra time. If you need to immediately perk up your ensemble with one item, why not complete your look with beige leather heeled sandals?