It’s almost time to whip out the big and bulky North Face jacket because winter is right around the corner. When the vast majority of your outfit is made up of a huge down jacket, it’s easy to fall into wearing what feels like the same outfit every day. If you get sick of wearing the same warm shoes, pants, scarf and jacket all the time, it’s time to spice up your winter wardrobe. I’m not telling you to go buy another warm coat – all you have to do is work with the rest of your ensemble that shows while you’re wearing that massive thing.
For the ladies
As the winter months roll in, it’s easy to want to stick to your comfy sweaters and favorite pair of pants – and by all means, wear those sweaters – but we can switch up the rest of your outfit to let your style shine through.
Scarves:
The first thing to change up is your scarf. Add some color or prints to your outfit while you stay warm and cozy. Experiment with metallics and rock the infinity scarf.
Socks:
Bring some style to your feet and let your socks peek out over your boots. Add a pop of color to break up the dark hues of your outfit. Be bold and go for a metallic cuff. Add some detail to your outfit with buttons, gems or lace.
Bags:
It’s super easy to add color to your outfit with a bright bag. Go for the crossbody, bowler or classic handbag in your favorite color. Brights are in vogue so go to your store of choice and give color a try.
Headwear:
Keep your heads warm in style. Go for bright beanies, berets and ear warmers. Anxious for spring? Rock a bow earwarmer with a floral print. Glam up your ensemble with a sequined beret or bow beanie, or bring more patterns into your outfit with headbands and fuzzy berets.
Pants:
This is for the vibrant and brave among us. If you love to test out the next fashions, work a dramatic pair of pants. Bright pants can carry over into winter and add fun to your outfits. Royal blue is the color of the season, so buy some jeans that are festive for the winter. Once it starts getting even colder, either add a base layer under your pants or bring out the bright cords. Buy a pair of jeans with a cool wash. Try on a pair of acid wash or ombre jeans and see which fits your style best. Add more personality to your outfit with a pattern – florals can help you cope with the cold until spring and vertical stripes will slenderize.
For the gentlemen
Scarves:
Add a signature piece to your outfit because nothing says class like a guy who can work a good scarf. If you’re an athletic type, wear a scarf with a rugby stripe to show off your personality. Try a two-tone or color block scarf if you love to dress in style. For the guys who love the outdoors, the classic flannel scarf will make you look great and stay warm.
Headwear:
Winter means it's time to bring out the beanie. A beanie in your favorite color can add a personal touch to your look. If you love wearing patterns, try the striped beanie, or wear a beanie with your favorite logo on it to give off hint of your preferences.
Pants:
While jeans and khakis are great, guys with true style can rock the colored pants. If you’re a jeans guy through and through, go with a subtle grey wash jean or a dark colored jean to give your winter ensemble some variety. A pair of colored pants is a great alternative to khakis and will show off how hip you are. When it starts getting so cold that your jeans just won’t cut it, rock some colored cords and stay warm in style.
Once your winter outfits start to feel dark and dull, take a shopping trip and spruce up your wardrobe with some colors and patterns. There are so many alternatives to the standard black boots, pants and jacket combination that won’t compromise your warmth. All you have to do is keep these tips in mind and you can bring some fresh life into your everyday look.