Monday, October 08, 2012

Baby it's Cold Outside...

Tips on how to heat up your wardrobe when the temperature drops

So the weather outside is frightful, but your wardrobe doesn’t have to be!  As autumn comes to an end, and we are welcomed by winter’s blistering cold winds, it’s difficult to find the appropriate attire that keeps you warm, while still looking your best. For the fashion-forward, the trendsetter, and simply the weather-conscious, here are some helpful hints to keep your wardrobe comfortably warm and effortlessly stylish, for the days you think the weather just doesn’t agree with you.

Let’s start with the basics: sweaters. The key is to ensure you don’t look old and frumpy. Nobody likes frumpy, and it’s just not a good look. To avoid this unfortunate mishap, find a sweater that fits you just right, and steer clear from the oversized boyfriend sweaters if you’re going out in public. The excess fabric will just create a larger silhouette and will do everything except flatter your body. If you like the bulky, too-much-clothing kind of look, then perhaps layering sweaters will be your go-to for the upcoming cold days. One or two light sweaters underneath a jacket with a wool lining, finished off with a knit scarf is an easy way to get the ‘I-swear-I-didn’t-take-that-long-getting-ready-today’ look you’re going for!

For the nights out in the city, when you’re usually afraid to rock those heels of yours when there’s ice and snow covering the streets, fear not! This is the perfect opportunity to rummage through your old shoes and grab those vintage boots and bring them to life again. If you don’t have a pair, look for a knee-high or mid-calf boot, depending on your personal style and the look you’re going for that day. If you’re getting dolled up for the evening, pair your sweater dress with a high heel boot. Just make sure you’re on the lookout for any icy patches. Nothing says “I can’t walk in these heels” like a graceful face plant. On the bright side, at least you’ll look fabulous doing it!

There is a secret weapon the fashionista uses to spice up her wardrobe when times get rough. She accessorizes. She adds personality to her outfit with subtle touches and accents of colour and texture. This is possibly the most exciting part of styling yourself, because it calls for creativity. In the winter months, these accessories range from knits, scarves, wraps, mittens, hats, tights, just to name a few. When working with these important pieces, it is crucial to understand how easily they can overpower your outfit, and know how to avoid that from happening. For example, if you think your black sweater and jeans combo needs an added touch, throw on a knit circle scarf of any colour of your choice and you’ll already notice a big difference in your attire. Remember, less is more. Don’t over-accessorize – this is about you shining, not surprising others that there is actually a person beneath all that unnecessary winter gear.

With these helpful tips in mind, you are ready to face the next few months knowing you’ll look and feel as stylish as ever! Happy shopping and stay warm!