Add a dash of color to your winter wonderland

It's that time of year again -- winter is upon us and this means bidding farewell to fun summer clothing. As your thermometer takes a nose dive you won't be able to pull off that carelessly worry free outfit of jeans and t-shirts much longer. There's no way around it: heavy coats and bulky sweaters are the only way to stay warm when the temperature plunges.

Coordinating outfits with so many layers can be particularly challenging. Perhaps this is why winter clothing is traditionally darker and more somber-looking than warm weather clothing. Additionally, the heavy wools so typical of winter clothing are more difficult to care for. Many opt for darker colors that are easier to keep looking clean.

If you've already been through a dreary New England winter, you know that the last thing you need on those overcast miserable days is dark oppressive color in your wardrobe. You see, winter is all about color. Cheery hues work wonders for a drab outfit and can brighten your entire outlook during endless weeks of ice and snow.

Most people rely on one "winter coat" throughout the season. This item is obviously a tricky choice, because it theoretically has to work with everything in your closet. This is why many people end up selecting classic black. Of course black always looks great, but if you have decided to go for black outerwear, try and find something with some interesting detail. For example, a unique woven texture in fabric can add excitement to a classically shaped coat.

Don't feel like you have to go for black. Sometimes, color can be so bold that it stands alone and in a way, becomes neutral. By neutral I mean that the color is so dramatic that it doesn't really matter if what you are wearing with it matches exactly. Besides, if you keep the coat closed, no one will be able to tell that your shirt clashes with it! So, don't be afraid to go for that gorgeous crimson red or deep blue. Just imagine how dramatic you will look against all the white snow.

While we are on the subject, let's discuss white. There is a distinct difference between summer and winter white. According to the salesperson at United Colors of Benetton, winter whites are warmer "cr??me" tones, while summer whites are true stark white shades. If you are unsure of what's appropriate, you probably don't need to worry because it is almost impossible to find summer white in any store right now.

On that note, what are stores carrying this season? I've noticed that now, more than ever, there is a huge emphasis on accessories. While gloves and scarves were once practical afterthoughts to an outfit, people are discovering that one can change the whole look of one's outerwear with accessories. These accessories are typically less expensive than coats, so it's feasible to have a broad selection of interesting hats, gloves, and scarves to incorporate into all sorts of interesting looks.

If you have a black jacket, colorful accessories are a must. Conversely, if your jacket makes a bold statement, steer clear of outrageously loud accessories that will end up making you look like a gaudily decorated Christmas tree. However, a little sparkle can be quite lovely. Try adding a unique broach or pin to the lapel of your coat for instant personalization. For stunning vintage costume jewelry try Twentieth Century Limited on 73 Charles Street in Boston. Vintage costume jewelry also doubles as a great gift.

This winter, don't be afraid to be colorful, even with those selections in your wardrobe you wear all the time. Why should gorgeous color be restricted to special occasions? Consider color an everyday luxury that is easily affordable. When everything around you is dull and bleak, wrap yourself in lovely hues and bring back a little piece of those bygone summer days. This time of year is notoriously stressful, so go into it prepared with a confident, bold look.