Pretty on Parade

Here in the northeast (and even the south!) we're getting crushed by blustery winds and bitter cold temps, but don't let your look match your mood (seasonal depression, anyone??) There's no need to tuck away your perky brights and shroud yourself  in blacks and grays! Transitioning your bright and patterned pieces into the colder seasons can be a mood lifter.

Here's my tips on getting the job done in three easy steps: 

 

1.  Start your base with a vibrantly patterned piece, like this lovely frock by ModCloth. A great way to take this dress, which is great for summer strolls on the boardwalk, into brisker temps is by grounding the look with other pieces that have a more substantial feel. Top off your base item with a heavier knit pullover, which will allow your dress to work as more of a skirt (a two-for-one deal!).

2.  Then add in your winter friendly favorites like opaque tights, ankle booties and chunky belts. Work with pieces that are color complimentary to tones found in your dress, especially if it's printed. As you see here, sage tights are a welcome change from basic black and brown, yet work as a neutral that doesn't compete with the print. And the buckle detail on the boots lends a more contemporary feel when paired with this wonderfully retro design. Using a belt allows you to define your shape through your layers, by cinching in your waistline, while also adding some visual texture to the look.

3.  Complete the look by adding finishing accessories, like a scarf, bag and jewelry. You can pull out colors from your dress and repeat them in these pieces to keep the look cohesive with out being overly matchy. Here, I chose to maintain the whimsical feel of the repeated pattern on the dress and add in circular earrings - that happen to have a nautical theme. I mean, we're all dreaming of summer right!


In the end, you've got a cute and cozy outfit that says the winter blues ain't got a thing on you!


Stay warm, lovelies!!