9 Refreshingly Cool Ways to Liven Up Your Look Right Now

Another day, another sweatpants and puffer jacket outfit… am I right? It's not always easy to feel sartorially inspired during the throes of winter—bulky layers and drab, dark hues can get pretty tedious after a while. So if you're looking for a little uplifting style inspiration right about now, then you've come to the perfect place! Below we're sharing nine cool ways you can liven up your look that is guaranteed to boost your mood, elevate your outfits, and invigorate your Instagram feed.

Included in the mix are chic accessories, modern silhouettes, and beautiful basics along with some of spring 2021's biggest trends that are easy to pull off right now (and perfect for getting ahead of the fashion curve). Get inspired by some of our favorite fashion girls and take a peek below for ideas on how to amp up your outfits this season.

Add a Pop of Pink

Vibrant bubblegum pink is set to be one of the biggest spring/summer color trends. Get ahead of the curve and integrate the lively hue within your outfit now, whether it's with a statement sweater or a chic handbag. It's guaranteed to banish any winter blues.

how-to-update-your-style-290614-1607640640935-main

(Image credit: @jen_wonders)

how-to-update-your-style-290614-1607717647940-main

(Image credit: @kristenmarienichols)

Shop:

Try a Cool Cutout

We're all living in sweaters right now, so why not jazz up your knits with a trending cutout silhouette? They'll add a refreshingly modern touch to any winter outfit.

how-to-update-your-style-290614-1607641346221-main

(Image credit: @champagnemani)

how-to-update-your-style-290614-1607641588921-main

(Image credit: @cassandra.cawell)

Shop:

Slip Into a Statement Second-Skin Top

When it comes to winter layering, start with a tissue-thin top in a playful print. It'll liven up your outfit in an instant and will add a fun touch underneath your neutral cardigans and coats.

how-to-update-your-style-290614-1607642105186-main

(Image credit: @isabellecoheen)

how-to-update-your-style-290614-1607642403811-main

(Image credit: @chrissyford)

Shop:

Get Creative With Your Layering 

The cold-weather gives us the perfect opportunity to experiment with layering and is key to creating a compelling look. Play with textures and colors within your outfit to keep things interesting.

how-to-update-your-style-290614-1607643270102-main

(Image credit: @chrystelleeriksber)

how-to-update-your-style-290614-1607643316006-main

(Image credit: @prosenkilde)

Shop:

Carry a Furry Bag

Adding a little plush texture to your ensembles will breathe new life into your look. A shearling or faux-fur bag is the perfect way to do it.

how-to-update-your-style-290614-1607642991469-main

(Image credit: @modedamour)

how-to-update-your-style-290614-1607643063491-main

(Image credit: @anoukyve)

Shop:

Try Checkerboard Prints

A big trend for spring 2021, checkerboard prints are having a major moment on Instagram right now and are unquestionably one of the coolest ways to zhuzh up your winter look.

how-to-update-your-style-290614-1607712023338-main

(Image credit: @camillecharriere)

how-to-update-your-style-290614-1607715382968-main

(Image credit: @laurenegg)

Shop:

Elevate Your Outfit With Logo Tights

Tights are a winter essential, but if you want to get fancy treat yourself to a luxury logo pair for an Insta-worthy look.

how-to-update-your-style-290614-1607712483668-main

(Image credit: @louloudesaison)

how-to-update-your-style-290614-1607712538291-main

(Image credit: @bubblyaquarius)

Shop:

Switch Up Your Neckline

Even the smallest change in silhouette can make your outfit look fresh. Try a trending asymmetric neckline for a contemporary-cool touch.

how-to-update-your-style-290614-1607641845642-main

(Image credit: @sophiabrenn)

how-to-update-your-style-290614-1607641962021-main

(Image credit: @clairemost)

Shop:

Cinch Your Waist With a Chain Belt

How about a chain waist belt to elevate your loungewear and leggings this season? They're a fashion-girl favorite right now.

how-to-update-your-style-290614-1607711796605-main

(Image credit: @cassdimicco)

how-to-update-your-style-290614-1607711925064-main

(Image credit: @dilettabonaiuti)

Shop:

Up next, I'm a fashion stylist in NY—here's how to create three cool layered looks this winter.

Explore More:
Judith Jones
Senior Fashion Market Editor

Judith Jones is the senior fashion market editor at Who What Wear who specializes in shopping content and trend stories with high-affiliate impact. She shares the coolest, most desirable fashion market finds and brands for every budget. Previous to working in fashion, Judith worked as a TV host on the PBS travel show Globe Trekker (airing on Netflix and Amazon Prime) sharing her passion for travel and culture.