It’s easy to fall into a fashion rut when your daily wardrobe consists of bulky layers – and you’re generally choosing comfort over style to cope during cold weather. But what about dressing for a night on the town or simply mixing things up for a more creative look? If you don’t have the time or money to splurge on all the latest trends, the tips below will help you incorporate a few key winter styles into your wardrobe, along with the latest makeup ideas to update your look this cold weather season.

1. Bright colors and patterns

Contrary to what you might expect, you don’t need to store away summer’s neon brights with the arrival of cold weather. To update this summery look, simply combine one neon item with neutral basics to bring a pop of color, rather than all-over color-blocking. Along with neons, the geometric and retro-floral patterns are still on trend, too. A silk scarf, or foulard, is an affordable and versatile addition to your winter wardrobe, if you don’t already have one. The silk scarves coming out this winter are longer than they were the past, so they’re easy to style and a perfect statement piece. Tying a colorful printed scarf around the strap of your purse is a unique way to update your favorite bag, without spending a fortune.

• Makeup tip: Emerald green is an irresistible winter trend and a festive color choice for holiday parties. Although green is flattering for all complexions – especially pale winter skin – avoid looking like the wicked witch of the west by combining this shade with neutral lips and cheeks. Cosmopolitan recommends a mossy hue, or opt for Stila Eye Shadow Trio in Going Green, which gives you three blend-able colors. Or, to incorporate green into a smoky eye, use dark grey shadow as a base and green powder to line your eyes. Finish off with a volumizing black mascara, like Too Faced Size Queen Mascara in Black.

2. Military touches

Military style has been lingering on and off the runways for the last few seasons but is back in full force for winter. If there’s a traditional navy blue or black peacoat in the back of your closet, it’s time to pull out this classic piece. Pair this timeless outerwear trend with a neon hat or patterned scarf for a chic, updated look. For a modern twist, choose a peacoat with a floppy, oversized collar.

• Makeup tip: Oxblood and burgundy shades are huge this winter – and a perfect pairing to the traditional peacoat. Try a lip stain or nail polish, like Urban Decay Super Saturated High Gloss Lip Color in Apocalypse or Essie Nail Color in Wicked. The dark, dramatic lipstick can wash out your fair winter complexion, so be sure to wear it along with a warming bronzer or blush like LORAC blush in Peach.

3. Fake fur accents

Designers are using fur as an accent instead of a main piece, so winter 2012 is the perfect time to incorporate some fake fur into your wardrobe. An army-green parka with a fur-lined hood is a cold weather staple that’s versatile enough to wear with any outfit. If you’re feeling more daring, try a fur vest or a blazer with fur detailing along the sleeves. Pair this look with some dark skinny jeans and simple boots so you don’t have too many textures going on at one time.

• Makeup tip: With cold weather here and fur a major trend, what could be more appropriate than flushed pink cheeks? Described by Michael Kors’ makeup artist Dick Page in Cosmopolitan as “après–ski,” a rosy glow is a trendy, sexy and winter-appropriate look for any time of day. Use a cream blush that lasts longer and is easier to layer than powder, like Smashbox Airbrush Whipped Cheek Color in Berry Bliss.

4. Leather

This season, the leather trend is expanding beyond the typical motorcycle jacket or blazer. Designers are putting out everything from full leather body suits (Yves Saint Laurent) to leather dresses (Fendi). Some of those runway looks are a bit intense, so instead of pouring yourself into the leather cat suit or going head-to-toe biker chic, try something simpler. Loose leather shirts and tailored leather skirts are a popular choice. If you opt for the shirt, you can leave it loose or cinch it with a statement belt.

• Makeup tip: A cherry red lip is the way to complement a dark leather outfit. It’ll brighten your skin while making your whole outfit pop. Keep it matte to avoid clashing with the shine of your leather. Smashbox Lipstick in Legendary is a great choice for true red; it contains natural moisturizers and antioxidants to keep your lips healthy all winter.

5. Waist and hip emphasis

This season, the waist and hip are the stars. The easiest way to emphasize your waistline is the peplum, a carry-over from this spring. Go for one in a bright primary color or with button detailing. Adding a belt to the smallest part of your waist, right where the little peplum skirt starts, will make the effect even more “va-va-voom.” Since you’re adding extra volume around your waist, make sure to keep your bottom half streamlined, whether it’s with a pair of slim pants or a figure-hugging skirt.

• Makeup tip: To balance out this girly look, add a high-intensity eye. Designers on the runway played around with different eye shapes using pure black pigments. To get a stunning cat-eye use a clay shadow/liner like tarte Emphaseyes Waterproof Clay Shadow. Outline the shape you want and then fill it in. For a simple, dramatic line, use a liquid liner like Stila Stay All Day Liquid Eye Liner in Black.

Adding seasonal trends to your winter wardrobe doesn’t have to be overwhelming, and you don’t have to embrace every idea once. Pick one that you feel drawn to, and incorporate it into your favorite outfit. Something as simple as a vintage patterned scarf will breathe new life into your cold weather look. Soon, you’ll be the envy of all of your friends with your updated and impeccable style!

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