Warm winter trends

Throwing fashion to the wind to stay warm is a very practical approach to winter. Then the holiday sales come, and I black out in the mall. I usually give in to winter trends. As I look down at my hands clad in lambswool hand warmers, I am thinking: "why did I buy these?" They are really pretty, but they serve no function -- they don't actually cover the fingers. But I will wear them with a chunky white cashmere sweater, matching scarf and make them work. Winter is about survival, and fashion will survive with a little color added to the palette.\nColors such as yellow, green, white and red are in this season. The colors bring life to what can often turn into three months of slow death. These colors have been seen on Kenneth Cole's runway, especially white pants and skirts. Orange is also popular for the winter. Orange is one of my favorite colors -- I have a bright orange silk sweater I love to wear during the holidays, and I also like to wear a bright baby blue pullover. Sweaters are essential to a winter wardrobe. So, brighten up the winter blues with a bright sweater.\nOne way to add color to your wardrobe is through winter accessories. Scarves, ear muffs, gloves and hats can brighten up a dull winter day. Colorful accessories in yellow, green and pink can accent a peacoat or your winter outfit alone. \n"Add a splash of intense color to liven up a monochromatic color scheme," says fashion designer Carolina Herrera.\nTry getting these accents in cashmere or lambswool. These materials are soft, warm and add a rich texture. The best place for affordable quality cashmere is Banana Republic. \nBanana Republic also offers cashmere socks. They are comfortable and warm, and at $9.99 for a pair of regular socks and $18.50 for a pair of trouser socks, they are worth the investment. Colored tights are also a great staple because they keep your legs warm and guard against cold feet.\nSpeaking of feet, boots are a must. IU sidewalks are covered with sand to prevent freezing instead of salt. Every year I see fashionistas kiss the pavement in a pair of fashion boots with no traction. My suggestion is to find boots with traction. Steve Maddens and Timberlands for women are good choices because they provide comfort and style. \nOn Nicole Miller's runway, models wore short skirts with black knee-high boots and black leg warmers over the boots. The look is flirty but adds warmth. For men Timberlands, Lugz and Frye boots provide quality and style. \nWinter parties are fun, but remember to dress for the weather. If you are going to a Christmas party or a frat party and want to combat the cold, wear a coat. Freezing isn't fashionable, and neither is being sick. Full-length cashmere and wool coats look good with short skirts and a pair of leather boots. I have a full length cashmere coat, and I like it because I can wear it to any occasion and it's warm. Natural fabrics are good for both men and women because they serve many purposes.\n"Instead, try a wool or cashmere blend coat, both of which have staying power…Wear a classic. A lined, belted trench coat can work through fall and early winter. Bonus: It's instantly and eternally chic," says Lisa Kovalovich of MSN. \nAlso, there are also long hooded coats made of velvet and suede that are embroidered and trimmed in faux fur. These coats are fashionable and dramatic. They are perfect on a cold day because you can wrap yourself up in them. \nEveryone should guard against cold weather and damage to skin and hair. My favorite shampoo and conditioner for the winter right now are Redken Smooth Down and Physique. For my face, I use Queen Helen oatmeal and honey facial scrub and AmorePacific face hydrator. H2O Milk Bath products and cocoa butter mixed with tea tree oil are also two of my all-time favorites. These products give moisture to your face without extra oil, making the skin softer. To protect hair from breakage, cover it with a head scarf or use a scarf big enough to cover your head and body.