Winter, still?
January 31
The last day of the first month of the year….it sounds so….depressing. And it is. The sheen and excitement are gone from the new year, the new year’s resolutions are mostly thrown by the wayside, and the crisp winter air has lost its freshness and spark. (I think that one more day with 6” of snow accumulation might make me loose my mind.) And worst of all, those luxurious warm winter sweaters that felt like cozy cocoons as the air grew chilly in fall now act as constrictive padding, hiding your body and making you feel as dowdy as your fourth-grade teacher.
If you’re at all like me, you probably dread this time of year more than any other. The only thing to look forward to (besides the groundhog seeing his shadow in a few days) is shopping for spring clothing. But even that is depressing on a day when you know those clothes won’t see beyond your closet door for months. It makes heading to the store seem almost useless. But, I have a few suggestions to make shopping worth your time!
My solution to these winter blues is simple: accessories! I’m not talking your generic necklace-and-bracelet-and earring type accessories; I’m talking bright, colorful, fun, and maybe even practical accessories!
First, get some cold-weather accessories, like scarves or cute hats, and wear them indoors to compliment your favorite outfit. I love the look of a low-cut top, layered under a belted sweater or cardigan, with a scarf in a bright turquoise or fuchsia to add a pop of color. It can make the whole outfit look new, and you’ll be warm, too!
Next, try tights!!! Tights are still hot, so stock up. Fishnets, prints, heavy-gage knits, or even glitter thread, if you dare, can take an ordinary dress into a higher fashion plane. Though I tend to stick to low-key and conservative, more power to you if you match them to your new electric-colored scarf!
Finally, take a peek at the new spring looks. There are a handful of items that can look great now, and still make the transition into spring! Since I love layers, my first choice would be to find a floral camisole or tank top (florals are going to be HOT this spring!) and wear it under a boxy cardigan or cute wrap, with jeans or sleek black trousers. Or, find a pretty floral slipdress and layer it under a long grey or cream belted sweater with simple tights to match.
At any rate, try to keep your spirits up as we wind through the last few months of winter. It won’t be long before the sweaters are packed away and the scarves are but a memory. Enjoy it while it lasts!
~Kelly VanH
