Wintertime can be a beautiful, joyous season, but in terms of fashion, all that bulky clothing can get kind of frustrating. Because bulk only leads to one thing: that Abominable Snowman look, which is never in style.

Speaking of snowmen, I can’t stress enough how horrible and out-of-style “marshmallow” coats have become – to be honest, I’d rather brave the outdoors in a t-shirt and shorts.

Ideally, you want to find a winter ensemble that will fit your personality, be stylish, and keep you warm.

First off – and this goes with any season – it’s important to purchase form-fitting items. Be proud of your body – even if you’ve got some problem areas, they will only look worse if you allow yourself to get swallowed up in a shapeless sweater. Show off your asserts with clothes that match your body shape, without delving too far into the low-cut and super-tight.

Second, remember to jazz up your winter attire with jewelry and scarves. Scarves can be draped strategically to accentuate and hide certain areas, and they’re becoming more fashionable every day.

Similarly, bracelets and earrings take some of the pressure off your body, allowing people to focus on your unique personality and good taste – or maybe that new haircut and French manicure. Plus, accessories are a great way to make different outfits stand out, even if you’re stuck rotating the same two or three jackets throughout the winter months.

Right now, New York fashion is all about finding a balance between funky and professional styles, with an eye towards what’s sexy. It’s more practical than runway fashion.

Let’s be honest, most of the outfits you see paraded down the runway are not appealing for day-to-day wear. In New York, shoppers like to see real clothes for real people, which means affordability and comfort are important considerations.

For example, ballet flats are really hot right now – they are super simple, very comfortable, and available in a variety of colors, patterns, and styles. With the right outfit, ballet shoes can look as sexy as four-inch pumps, but they are usually much more comfortable and go with just about anything. They really embody the concept that fashion is not all about looking good – it’s about feeling good as well!

Another trendy New York item is the infamous clutch purse. This is usually an oblong or rectangular item, often “clutched” in the hand rather than supported by a strap. There are so many different types of clutches, from shiny metallic leather to bright green embossed crocodile.

Finally, crystal bracelets are another big-ticket item, especially in California. The crystals in question are made by Swarovski, and they come in an assortment of designs that accommodate every mood and style. I found an ice blue and clear diamond bracelet that I absolutely adore.