Key Pieces to Freshen Up Your Wardrobe

The chill in the air tells us it’s time to trade shorts and tank tops for jeans and long sleeves, but what if our winter wardrobe needs a pick-me-up? There are some easy ways to make a big impact.

“Sweaters are always solid choices in the winter,” says Sherree Rothstein, owner of The Clothes Gallery in downtown Crystal Lake. “I find that women like breathable fabrics they can layer if they need to.”

If you like a sweater with a distinctive texture or knit pattern, choose a lighter color. “When you get dark colors, you usually can’t see the pattern well,” Rothstein adds.

In this season between fall and winter, classic autumnal tones are a smart choice. The palette includes rusty burnt oranges, golden tones, greens, browns and cognac. “It looks just like the beautiful October treescape,” Rothstein says.

Once winter sets in, Rothstein switches to bright tops in colors like fuchsia, royal blue, hot pink and purple.

“The other color I like this season is cream,” she says, adding that it’s especially powerful with colorful jewelry or bright scarves.

As for accessories, Rothstein says younger shoppers gravitate toward delicate jewelry styles, while those in their 40s and up prefer chunkier kinds. “Layering jewelry is still a big trend,” she adds.

Complete the outfit with a nice pair of jeans and the ever-popular ankle boot. “Whether you do a roll on your skinny jeans or you wear a high-rise flare, ankle boots work well,” Rothstein says.

When asked if she had to pick just a few statement pieces to add to her collection this winter, Rothstein says they’d have to be versatile items.

“I would add a fabulous jacket that I could fit a sweater or a silky top underneath,” she says. “I’d also get a statement pendant, especially one with a 32-inch chain. Quite a few designers are doing that, so you can wear it long or double it. I think those are great with chunky sweaters.”

Whether you opt for a casual look or you like to dress up, adding a few key pieces to your wardrobe this winter is sure to keep your style fresh. ❚

The Clothes Gallery is located at 51 N. Williams St., in Crystal Lake, (815) 455-3307.