Is your closet full of black, gray and other neutrals? Sounds like it's time to insert some color into your wardrobe! If you are unsure about a color one way to start is to buy a bottom like this red skirt, which keeps the color away from your face. Another tip: take baby steps. Pair your new colorful pieces with all neutrals and let that one colorful piece shine!

Navy blazer: Gap, $70
Shirt: TJ Maxx, $15
Skirt: The Unique Closet, $39.50
Shoes: Restricted/Endless.com, $39

Just like J:
Unique Closet skirt, $39.50
Restricted pumps, $34.99
Gap blazer, $98







































2. Try a new shape

Are all of your tops v-necks and crewnecks? It could be time to try something new. A batwing sweater (shown here), a cowlneck, or a shawlneck are all flattering and fun options. And remember: if you are wearing a top with lots of volume, be sure to keep your bottom half slim with a skinny, bootcut or a straight-leg pant.

Sweater: The Unique Closet, $38
Jeans: Gap, $30
Boots: The Tannery (a Boston boutique)

Just like J:
Unique Closet sweater, $38
Lands End gray jeans, $23.99
Zappos boots, $99



























3. Remix your closet

Trust me when I say that your closet is an untapped resource full of new outfits waiting to happen! This year, resolve to remix your wardrobe in new and different ways. Here, I show you three ways to wear a LBD: 1. With a turtleneck for extra coverage. 2. With a colorful jacket and tights. 3. Worn as a skirt with a blouse thrown over it. Have some fun in your closet this year!

Dress (throughout): The Unique Closet, $39.50
Necklace (throughout): JcPenney, $20
Turtleneck (first photo): Gap, $20
Pumps (first photo): Calvin Klein/Filene's Basement, $70
Blue jacket (second photo): Alice Temperely/Target, $40
Boots (second-fourth photos): Cynthia Rowley/TJ Maxx, $85
Striped shirt (third photo): TJ Maxx, $15

Just like J:
Unique Closet Strapless Dress, $39.50
JcPenney necklace, $24.99
Macy's turtleneck, $12







































4. Wear more patterns

I used to think that I would get bored with patterns quickly so I never bought them. Now I'm realizing that they are really versatile and can be worn with many different outfits. Still not sure? Start with something easy with neutral colors and a pattern that's not too busy, such as the shirt here. Also, think of your patterned shirt as just another solid - a regular ivory shirt would also work in this outfit, but the addition of polka dots is even cuter!

Shirt: The Unique Closet, $36.50
Cardigan: Banana Republic, $35
Belt: Gap, $10
Jeans: Gap, $30
Shoes: Restricted/Endless.com, $39

Just like J:
Unique Closet shirt, $36.50
Gap cardigan in Dew Drop, $39.50
Lands End gray jeans, $23.99
Restricted pumps, $34.99






































5. Have fun with accessories

The quickest and easiest way to update an outfit is to add some fun accessories. They are inexpensive and make a big difference. Without the leopard belt and necklaces in this photo, the outfit would be just another ho-hum collared shirt. Resolve to add some spice to your outfits this year with fun accessories!

Shirt: JCrew, $15
Jeans: Gap, $33
Belt: Urban Outfitters, $20
Boots: Aldo, $75
Diamond necklace: LOFT, $15
Fringe necklace: Stella & Dot

Just like J:
Ralph Lauren leopard belt, $24.99
Stella & Dot fringe necklace, $89
Gap cargo shirt, $59.50

Please note: the Unique Closet items featured in this post do not belong to me, they were borrowed for this post. All other items are my regular 'ole clothes.