How to wear winter well

Once temperatures drop below freezing, many Minnesota women succumb to warm-but-frumpy clothes. But wearing the same tired sweater and dull slacks will just make the season feel bleaker. Here are some ways to look cool while keeping warm.

Come to your senses

Winter clothes often come in black, gray, brown and tan. Instead of defaulting to that dreary palette, delight your eyes by wearing brightly colored garments and accessories. Incorporating textures and prints will add depth and interest to your outfits, as will keeping colorful shoes in rotation.

Rhinestones, hammered metals, sequins and all things sparkly are ideal for this time of year. Anything that catches and reflects light will help you feel upbeat.

Bring the other senses into the mix, too. Jangling bangles and rustling silk skirts add a soundtrack to your day. And, of course, don't forget to spritz on a bit of your favorite perfume. Surrounding yourself with fragrances you adore -- a scented lip gloss, fragrance-laden lotion or pungent hair product -- will help you stay engaged through the dark, cold months.

Layer it on

Layering without lumps is a valuable skill to learn. The key is fit: Underlayers must fit tighter than outer layers. For instance, if you're going to wear a long-sleeved T-shirt under a V-neck sweater, the tee has to fit close to your body. Otherwise both garments will bunch and ride up.

Be bold and experiment with layering. Wear a close-fitting patterned silk skirt under a shorter A-line skirt. The silk skirt will act as a slip and the inch or so peeking out from beneath the hem of the A-line also will make your outfit more interesting. Tank tops can stand in for sweater vests when worn over button-front shirts. A slim-cut shirtdress, worn unbuttoned, can serve as a long cardigan or duster jacket.

To the maxi

It's easy to pull on a pair of pants when the windchill hits single digits, but maxi skirts are a surprisingly warm and fashion-forward alternative to slacks. Paneled and flared versions that bell at the seam are flattering on many figures because the wide hemline balances hips and thighs. Wear a heavy jersey or woven-wool maxi over tights and tall boots for optimum insulation.

Depending on your proportions, try pairing your maxi skirt with a cropped blazer, long boyfriend cardigan, or a dramatic floor-length duster or vest. Experiment until you find a maxi ensemble that works for your figure and your style.

Warming touch