Dear Kathleen, how can I add color to an otherwise all black/neutral wardrobe?

–Dressing in the Dark

Accessories are a great way to add colour to any wardrobe and freshen up a look. If you’re not fond of experimenting with bold, vivid colors, then scarves, hats, jewelry and gloves are an easy way to add unexpected bursts of color. Trying new things with inexpensive items is a good way to spice up a bland wardrobe and avoid feeling sorry about how much you spent if you don’t end up liking it.

Bold bracelets can be interchanged with almost any outfit and a patterned tie can change up that same suit season to season.

Handbags/purses are another way to add a touch of color and texture to an ensemble. I find you can be more adventurous when choosing handbags since they can be interchanged with various looks.

Stepping out of your comfort zone when it comes to make-up also can add that punch of colour. If you’re daring, try eyeshadow hues in purple and gold, or berry-toned lipstick.

Dear Kathleen, I’ve recently cleaned out my closet. What can I do with clothes I no longer use?

–No More Skeletons

Donating unwanted apparel that’s in good condition to second-hand shops and other charitable organizations is a great way to get rid of the clothes you no longer wear.

Another way of putting your clothes into good use is re-inventing them. If you like the design of a skirt that no longer fits, put yourself into do-it-yourself mode and transform it into a scarf. You can turn jeans into cute cut-offs, or if you’re crafty take embroidery and accents from old bags and tops and use them for scrapbooking or to accent picture frames.

Dear Kathleen, what are a few items I should buy to freshen up and update my wardrobe?

–Stuck in the ‘90s Again

Oh, Stuck in the ‘90s Again, to easily update a wardrobe you can accessorize and buy items that catch your eye this season.
A new pair of shoes also instantly updates a look. For fall, try tall leather or suede boots with buckles or studs. Men’s shoes also incorporate a mixture of rich textures in sporty styles.

Dear Kathleen, how do I wear plaid without looking like a tablecloth?

–Party of One

From the bold lumberjack style to the subtle stripe, plaid button-up shirts have that unisex look that can be worn with black pants, jeans – distressed for a more rugged look – and can be draped on top of loose tanks and tees.

Plaid scarves can be worn to accent a plain outfit or with a different plaid top for contrasting patterns. Plaid skirts can be pulled off successfully as long as it doesn’t look too school girl-esque, which can look like some sort of Halloween costume. Plaid pants worn with the right fit and colour, and with a matching blazer, can come across as quite sophisticated.

But be careful which color you choose, as it can resemble flannel pajamas or a Christmas-themed outfit.

Do you have a question for Kathleen? Send it to [email protected].

Published in Volume 64, Number 5 of The Uniter (October 1, 2009)