Sometimes it’s hard to keep up with all the emerging trends from season to season, especially when fashion always stays two seasons ahead. The Spring designs that recently debuted in New York, Milan and Paris are great in theory, but what can you wear NOW? It’s chilly so whatever you do, remember to layer up. Here are 5 practical ways to stay hip:

Trend #1:

Top it off with a scarf.
Scarves are a great outfit topper, not to mention they keep your neck toasty. Go neutral, go bright and colorful, or do an interesting print. It’s both chic and functional.

Trend #2:

Flash back with high-waisted denim.
It’s retro yet oh-so-forward. This look works best on tall girls or those blessed with long torsos. Take this look ‘funky fashion industry’ corporate with a cropped blazer and collared shirt. Or be playful with a shrunken tee and some ballet flats to run Saturday errands.

Trend #3:

Belt it out.
Everything looks better cinched at the natural waist with a thick eye-catching belt. Whether it’s a tweed swing coat or a cowl neck sweater dress, belts accent the smallest part of the upper body and help create that hourglass silhouette.

Trend #4:

Play dress up.
Dresses are fun, super feminine and never go out of style. Thank goodness for all of the natural and empire waists on the market today that let you eat all the seconds you want, no Spanx required. Don’t feel like shaving your legs? Just slip on some opaque tights. Now you’re discreet (and warm).

Trend #5:

Don a beret.
My grandma insisted on calling them “tams”. Call it what you want, but this classic Parisian staple is great way to add some sophisticated punch to your look. Slightly cocked to one side, this look is coy and sassy.