OK, so it’s the middle of winter and we are tired of looking in the same closet and seeing the same things. We really want to skip ahead to spring with its happy bright colors and patterns.

How can we change things up a bit while still keeping warm? One of my favorite ways to freshen up a winter wardrobe is with creative layering. Some women gasp at the thought of layering, fearing that multiple layering will add bulk and therefore pounds to their silhouettes. With a couple of thoughtful rules, you can create foolproof layers without looking like a Snuggie.

Pairing skinny black pants or skinny jeans with layered tops is the necessary starting point. Keeping the bottom half slim will balance the layered look on top. Boots with a little heel will also help create the sleek bottom half we are looking for. The first layer on top should be a thin, fitted if possible, pull-over-the-head top. Knits work well for this first layer, as do silky fabrics or even a cotton T-shirt in a fun color. Most necklines will work except for possibly a cowl-neck. Now we have a basic starting point to build on.

The next logical layer could be a vest or a cardigan. Remember, we are not worrying about the lengths or the necklines at this point. It is your choice to leave the layers out or tucked in. Personally, I think different layers worn untucked are modern and hip. Layers that have front closures, such as vests and cardigans, are the most slimming. A great optional layering look is a white shirt over a colorful basic T-shirt left open with a wide belt. All belts are fashionable again this year. From a trim skinny belt to a chain-link or wide stretchy belt, the options are endless.

The ever versatile jacket is another great option for creating smart new looks. Think of wearing it with something in your closet that is totally unexpected. Maybe that really jazzy flashy jacket you wore for the holidays could resurface with a tank-top, jeans, and a rugged boot. Possibly that jean jacket could look fantastic with that sequin-trimmed skirt you wore on New Year’s Eve. Think out of the box.

Even party dresses can be dressed down with a little creative thinking. Get more wear out of that special one-time-wear dress by pulling a soft cashmere sweater over the top. Add leggings, boots, and casual accessories and you have a fresh new look.

When accessorizing, think minimal, smart, and conservative. When sporting a layered look, simplicity in accessorizing is smart. And for that party dress, have you ever thought about wearing it as a jumper? Tone down the formality of a special-occasion dress by pairing it with a long-sleeved T-shirt underneath in a contrasting color. This makes for a surprisingly chic alliance.

Give a nod to the upcoming spring season by bringing in the color. Brighten your day by adding a cheerful jacket or sweater in nature’s hues of sky or ocean blue and leafy or lime green. Toss on a scarf in a brightly hued tone for a pop of color to contrast all the black, brown, and grey we have been wearing all winter. In keeping with the colorful mood, add a little extra blush or try a daring red lipstick. Maybe now is the time to experiment with a little self-tanner. It is amazing what a little golden color will do for our winter mood and complexion!

Go pale with the colors of your clothes. Yes it is a little unorthodox, but how refreshing! Bring on that soft pastel palette along with white to freshen up your wardrobe. Blush and beige shades in modern silhouettes are simply elegant. Lace is again really trendy this year and can be worn casual or dressy in soft tones.

Especially chic and edgy is a menswear approach to modern-day classics worn with a touch of femininity. Menswear-inspired looks work for all taste levels and ages. They look especially sophisticated and fashion-forward in pale tones.

Black and white is my perennial favorite for moving into a springy state of mind. It always looks crisp and put together and is a natural for adding a spot of color. Think of black and white with a bright yellow belt to “sunny-up” your outfit. Think of black and white worn with a colorful botanical-hued long-sleeved T-shirt peeking out from under your jacket. Black and white can be playful or serious, dressy or casual, strictly business or strictly party, but the look is always tasteful and appropriate.

Before you know it, there will be that beautiful lime green peeking out of the earth again, but we have to get through a little more of winter first. Let’s freshen up our wardrobe with some new mixes.

Whether we are shopping in our closet or shopping at our favorite store, this is the time of year to experiment and to try new combinations. Yes we get a little bored with winter, but we don’t have to get bored with the way we look. By using our imagination and creativity, we can have some fun with fashion and maybe do a little reinvention on ourselves. Winter doesn’t have to be dull and gray. Feel free to brighten it up!

Editor’s Note: Holly has been in the fashion industry for over 30 years as a buyer, boutique store owner, visual merchandiser, and fashion show producer. She is currently the owner of a modeling agency. Holly regularly appears on local TV doing fashion segments.