Dressing up for the winter

Most of the country has entered the real winter months -- and in New England - where temperatures dip into the 30s and 40s and chilly weather, rain, etc. becomes frequent. All you've got to do is layer a few items and you can look put together. Fabrics and materials are rich and luxurious, making a statement all on their own. Yet just the same, dressing around frigid days and nights can be a challenge, especially in combining what's warm and protects you from the elements with what looks fashionable and stylish.

Fortunately, one of the quickest and easiest ways to pull off both is with accessories, and thanks to these little items being a hot number every year, there are more options available than ever. From hats to scarves to tights and socks, there are plenty ways to keep yourself cozy warm while keeping your look hip and stylish.

With scarves, the look this season is everything goes, and believe me, designers do not fall short on delivering. Faux fur, thick and cozy cable knits, wool, you name it. While in the past the way to work a scarf was folded in half, then double looped to make a big, bunchy look around the neck, fashionistas all around the internet and on the streets are working them in different ways -- tossed over the shoulder, worn full like a shawl, etc. as well.

When it comes to keeping legs covered (or adding an extra layer of warmth), tights are key. Opaque and cotton/knit tights generally come back every season and are ultra thick in comparison to the more sheer styles you'll also see. One of the looks this year that is going strong are tights with sweater dresses from past season (as seen photo right). Black is the mainstay for most closets, but ivory, gray, brown, and other colors, as well as a range of textures (cable knit, ribbed, houndstooth, etc.) are also a popular look to play with.

If there were any "it" item in accessories that we're spying on people everywhere, it's knit hats of all kinds. The slouchy beanie is a winter classic. This season you will find it updated with luxurious knits, sparkles, and subtle details like sequins or metallic thread, worn with virtually everything you can think of (including party dresses). Bright colors with the same vein are also very popular. The freshest look we've seen are head scarves, which provide a different look and a little less coverage but still keep you secretly warm while looking stylish.