For many women, the standard winter wardrobe consists of thick sweaters and jeans. The spring and summer fasions get reluctantly tucked into storage to make room for the bulky cold weather wear. Wait! Don't pack up just yet. Here are some ways to take that closet from summer through winter.
Layer, Layer, Layer
For many, this is going to seem like a no brainer. However, don't just think of layering as putting a simple jacket on over a blouse, think of layering different textures and lengths. For instance, layer a long sleeve ribbed cotton shirt under a short sleeved silk blouse. Take it another step and add a thin belt around the waist. Pair with a short skirt, tights, and heels for a flirty vibe, or with a pair of slacks for an office casual look. Need something even warmer for that crisp weather? Adding a wool peacoat and a scarf will keep you cozy and chic.
Print, Texture, and Color
Use care (and common sense!) when combining prints, textures, and colors. The wrong combination can take a look from eclectic to eccentric in a hurry. When pairing texture with pattern, don't be afraid to try out a new idea. The combination of a thick or rough texture with a breezy fabric can look fabulous, but not when the fabrics are of clashing colors or patterns.
Always keep all colors either complementary or completely contrasting. A safe bet is to layer using only one pattern, however sometimes stripes can look amazing with a floral. When mixing patterns and textures, stick with simple patterns and textures for a pulled together look.
From Summer to Winter
To make that favorite breezy pink floral sundress winter-ready, add a solid dark long sleeved jersey knit shirt, matching opaque tights and round toe platform heels. To contrast the summery pink of the sundress, dark blue would look amazing for the shirt, tights and shoes. Black certainly would work, however blue gives a bit of a modern edge.
Simply adding a cardigan can take a tank top to a new season. A long, belted cardigan over a tank top and jeans is a stylish fall/winter look. Wear with boots and top it off with a knit hat for a perfect casual chic weekend.
Try layering textures of the same color to give a head to toe outfit an edge. This will only work if the colors match. Head to toe gray can look incredibly boring, but adding texture with a knotty ribbed shirt, silk blouse, or tweed pants can give some dimension and add interest. A great way to complete a monotone style is by wearing a bold accessory such as a piece jewelry, a belt, or a scarf of contrasting color.
These simple techiniques can help maintain a seasonless wardrobe, which will not only save time and closet space, but money as well.
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