Winter accessorizing 101

Punch up your cold-weather wardrobe

Somewhere between October and April, we come to the painful realization that it's just downright cold. Our wardrobe routine becomes mundane, our focus set solely on avoiding frostbite at all costs.

Under the infinite layers of sweaters, piles of scarves and after endless bad hair days (hat head, anyone?), our personal style begins to get lost. We find ourselves trading style for comfort, color for monochrome and effortless chic for just plain effortless.

We've all got the basics down: a structured wool coat, a big fluffy scarf and furry earmuffs that make hearing virtually impossible. But what if we mixed things up a bit and made the basics our canvas for letting our personality glow as bright as an après ski fire?

There are myriad ways to next-level your winter wardrobe and up the accessory ante. Be mindful not to fall victim to the winter blues; remember you can incorporate loads of color and pattern to punch up humdrum hues. Resolve to avoid the dreary and drab this winter with a few simple rules to live by while accessorizing for the season:

Hats

Keep your head toasty and your style scorching by trying a matador or panama-style hat. Bonus: You can keep these on indoors, adding a touch of edge to your outfit.

Gloves

Who says function and fashion ne'er shall meet? Leather or leatherlike gloves are a great way to make a statement while battling the elements, and they often come with cashmere lining for extra coziness. Try picking up a pair in a bright shade, or find some with faux-fur detailing for a richer look.

Scarves

Spice up an everyday coat or oversized knit with a little neck candy. Adding that extra piece adds visual interest and allows you to do more with the pieces you already own and love. Try tying a scarf together at the ends to create an infinity look, or simply loop it around your neck once and let the ends hang free.

Capes/ponchos

A poncho or cape-style coat can help boost your winter look. Wear them as outerwear or as an extra layer over a long-sleeved knit. This is a great way to incorporate your newfound accessorizing expertise by adding elbow-length gloves into the mix for extra warmth and flare.