As a native Floridian, I’ve gotta admit that it’s hard to find style inspiration in the winter. When the number priority is staying warm, it’s easy to turn into one big cozy blob of scarves and puffer jackets. I spent all of December in the Florida sunshine, so coming home to Missouri in January was a little bit of a rude awakening. When we landed in St. Louis, it was -8. Even though it’s much warmer now (and by warmer, I mean in the 20s), it’s still hard to feel inspired. When it comes to getting out of a winter style rut, here are 5 styling tips that’ve worked well for me so far! You’ll also find full outfit details at the bottom of this post.

1. Have Fun with Your Closet

The best way to pull yourself out of style rut is to make your wardrobe fun again. Remember, old can be new. Walk into your closet and try on items you haven’t worn in a while. Who knows… that oversized knit sweater with a giant cat on it from your grandma might be trendy now. Honestly, I hadn’t worn these white skinny jeans in years. I first purchased these while I was recovering from an eating disorder, and they were much too big. I should’ve returned them, but I must’ve forgotten. I pulled them out of my closet a few weeks ago, and voila! They fit like a glove! Resurrecting old forgotten items not only gives you a sense of accomplishment, it also gives you what feels like a brand new item of clothing. 

2. Play Around with Color

There’s an entire science called color psychology. Although it’s different for everyone, wearing certain colors can stimulate your mind, body, and energy levels. Simply put, if you want to get out of a style rut, wear the colors that make you happy. For me, it’s soft pastels, like this light blue knit sweater. I immediately felt more vibrant the moment I put it on. 

Once you’ve determined which colors make you feel most confident, mix and match them. Again, play around with the clothing you already have. Find your most colorful coat (for me, it’s this scalloped marigold coat) and see how many outfits you can find to match it. 

3. Get Your Favorite Items Altered

The easiest way to feel frumpy in the winter is to pile on illy-fitting outwear. If your favorite coat or jacket is a little large, take it to a tailor. I had this classic camel coat fitted, and I find myself wearing it constantly. Although some tailors can be pricey, the money you spend will be well worth it. You’ll instantly feel like a new, more put together woman when you throw your newly fitted jacket on.

4. Accessorize, Accessorize, Accessorize

Another simple way to get out of a fashion rut is to update your accessories. Bold winter accessories, like chic over-the-knee boots and colorful blanket scarves, can completely reinvent a relatively tired outfit. Accessories are also a prime opportunity to experiment with your style without spending a ton of money. If you want to be more trendy, try some faux leather leggings and a some layered jewelry .If you want to be more colorful, find a bright pink handbag or suede light blue pumps (like these). The sky’s the limit.

5. Switch Up Your Beauty Routine

Self-care is so so so important. I can’t stress this enough. If you’re wondering how to look fashionable in winter, it all starts with your beauty routine. Before you pick an outfit or buy new accessories, make sure you’re taking care of yourself. Better yet, switch up your routine… because variety is the spice of life. The changes can be simple, too. Whether it’s taking a lukewarm bubble bath once a week, switching your hair part, or buying new makeup, you’ll feel like a new woman in no time. 

Shop the Look: Blue Twist Front Sweater, $20 (available in a over a dozen colors and can be worn flipped around [like so] if you’re not a fan of showing your stomach) | White Skinny Jeans, $80 | Rebecca Minkoff Crossbody, $195 (similar style) | Light Blue Pumps, $79 (also available in 3 other colors) | White Triad Ball Drop Earrings, $13 | White Michele Cape Watch, $334 (currently on sale)
 

 If you’re having a tough time feeling inspired (like I was), I hope you found this post helpful! For all my fellow snow bunnies, how do you get out of a winter style rut? Also, thanks to Catherine Rhodes for shooting this gorgeous photos! If you’re in the central Missouri area, I can’t recommend her highly enough!