7 Colorful Ways to Brighten Your Dark Winter Wardrobe (PHOTOS)

winter
winter

Since there's no avoiding it, let's just all agree that winter is well on its way. And coming along with it? A darker, drearier cold weather wardrobe. It's a big bummer, but it's true. Seems like all the stores have ditched their prettier, eye-popping color for the warmer, richer winter tones. But just because the stores are doing it doesn't mean we have to, too.

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Forget your basic black, gray, and brown -- it's time you reintroduced some color into your collection. Who cares if the weather outside is frightful (um, hi, nor'easter??), your fashion sense is certainly not, so don't be afraid to punch up your style and splash some bright, flashy hues into the mix. Of course, I'm not suggesting you head outside in all-out neon. No, just a touch of color here and a touch of color there will do the trick nicely. In fact, we scoured the web for seven ways to spruce up your tired winter wardrobe. So sit back, relax, and check out our list.

Cranberry
Cranberry

Image via ModCloth

Cranberry

If you can't let go of your darker looks, don't sweat it. Add this earwarmer (Cranberry Juice Earwarmer, $29.99) to the mix for a perky and colorful walk through the snow.

Jute Green
Jute Green

Image via Old Navy

Jute Green

I'm a little sad it took green so long to make its mark in the fashion realm, but finally, it's here. This cord skirt (Perfect-Cord Pencil Skirt, $27.50) is the perfect way to add a pop to an otherwise basic outfit. Pair it with a dark top and neutral flats. For more wow, add patterned or floral tights.

Flamingo
Flamingo

Image via Gap

Flamingo

These flamingo jeans (1969 Legging Skimmer Jeans, $69.95) are a bit orange, a bit red, and a hint of pink, which makes them perfect for the cooler weather. Dress these colored denim leggings up with a creamy top and a dark, basic blazer.

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Mustard Yellow
Mustard Yellow

Image via Urban Outfitters

Mustard Yellow

There are days when you just want to throw on a big, comfy sweater and be done with it. In this mustard yellow cardigan (Ladakh Albatross Cardigan, $98), you can do just that. Opt for a patterned flannel or keep it simple with a basic tank underneath. Dark denim will help round out the look and legwarmers will keep you cozy.

Colorblocking
Colorblocking

Image via J.Crew

Colorblocking

This color-blocked pink, black, and brown top (Colorblock Top, $68) is perfect for those who can't decide if they want a little color or they're better off without it. Pair this top with dark or black denim and a neutral or caramel shoe. It's the ideal bit of punch to keep your outfit colorful.

Burgundy
Burgundy

Image via Forever21

Burgundy

You should know that I am fawning over burgundy and oxblood this season, so when I saw this warm -- but bright! -- jacket (Longline Military Jacket, $42.80), I couldn't say no. Add a cream or dark beanie to keep your head warm and pair it with a rich colored bag.

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Zantine Blue
Zantine Blue

Image via J.Crew

Zantine Blue

Cobalt made a huge splash during the summer, and now this zantine blue coat (Teddie Dress, $198) picks up where cobalt left off. It's a bit brighter than you might be used to, so to downplay the pop, pair it with a soft blazer and shoes.

Does the changing of the seasons affect your fashion sense?

Image via GlacierNPS/Flickr

Written by Kylie McConville for CafeMom's blog, The Stir.

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