As the weather gets cooler, closets go darker. In the past, broody hues have been winter appropriate, but lately we’ve seen a surge of bold, bright colors including red, cobalt and metallics.

Lucky for us, with these colors in style, it’s easy to do a closet update that will take your accessories through the seasons with ease.

Shoes

Photo of Metallic Pump from Target

Shoes are such an

easy

way to take a baby step toward lightening up this winter.

Metallics are a form of neutral in that they go with any outfit, but still bring attention down to your toes.

Pointy toe metallic pumps like the ones offered by Sam and Libby will take you from office lunch to holiday party without a trip back home. Both the heel and flat options offer a stylish punch, so choose whichever style makes you feel more comfortable. Metallics, bolds and neons are all fair game, and you can find tons of affordable womens shoes online that fit the bill.

Handbags

Photo by JonathanCohen from Flickr

Like shoes, handbags are another easy way to add a pop of color without going over the top. When choosing a colored bag, remember to pick something that will coordinate with other pieces in your wardrobe. If you wear a lot of red, a Kelly green bag probably isn’t the best choice post-holiday season.

However, red coordinates great with many yellows and gem tones like purple.

Taking a mental inventory of your closet before going shopping will help immensely in choosing the right bag.

Nine West offers totes, satchels and wristlets in all colors mentioned above at reasonable prices.

Scarves

Photo by lanuiop from Flickr

It’s amazing how much a scarf can change a look. Even if you’re wearing a dark, monotone outfit, throw on a scarf and you'll look put together, festive and fun. Don’t be afraid of bright colors and out-there prints. Because a scarf is smaller and less bold than a pair of pants, try to push yourself for a something out of your comfort zone, like an intricately designed aztec print. For special occasions, match up your scarf with your metallic shoes. Pashminas and even ponchos have come back this winter and are a great way to add a pop to your outfit or dress up a pair of leggings while keeping warm.

Jewelry

Photo by cocoachuchu.easy.com from Flickr

Jewelry is another great way to make a statement and can be super affordable. Add color to your wardrobe or refresh an outfit you’ve been wearing all fall with a statement gold bangle or jeweled necklace. Mantra and idiom pieces are especially popular, like this Kate Spade 'find the silver lining' bangle. Another great trend that’s in for winter is large earrings. Colorful and sparkly, a pair can make a plain back dress party ready in a snap. Aldo has a ton of trendy jewelry that is budget-friendly.

Hats

Photo by Wickerfurniture from Flickr

Hats are making a big

comeback

this winter and are also a great accessory to have on hand for cold temps and not-so-great hair days. Women’s baggy crocheted beanies are everywhere and make running errands and weekend get togethers super stylish.

fashionado

by guest blogger

Sandy Holton