Everything old is new again. This is especially true in the world of fashion where trends continue to return year after year, decade after decade with new twists and takes on the original. This year may be an exception as winter florals dominate runways in patterns and colors rarely seen together and paired with heavy shoes and accessories that create a polished, sassy look that is anything but what dear old Granny used to wear.

Designer Derek Lam described the style as “somber and mysterious – definitely not sugary and naïve.” Muted shades of eggplant, midnight blue, burnt orange and brick red create a scene one might find as storm clouds roll over a garden party. Pair these foliage colors with tweed jackets and mink stoles for an astonishing take on the flower.

To create a perfect balance between bold florals and the rest of your outfit, be sure to choose all your coordinating pieces carefully. This seasons’ floral demands front and center attention and any competing patterns or accessories will take your look from glamorous to disastrous. Lam suggests “piling on luxury and texture” to enhance the magnitude of pattern and color of winter florals. Pair a tweed peacoat and menswear trousers with an ultra feminine floral blouse. Top a bold floral skirt (long and flowy) with a simple black turtleneck or cardigan and black boots. While these blooms are brazen, they can feel drab without the right pairing. Take Lam’s advice to “be brave and make it bold.” Top a dowdy blouse with a cropped jacket of faux fur in the same color palate.

Much of the seasons’ flower power – though anything but ‘60’s – is reminiscent of 1940’s florals. When opting for the marigold, pumpkin and spice colored blooms, keep everything else in solid colors and ultra simple. Even a floral coat should only be worn over solid colored outfits, never more patterns.

The right shoes are more important than ever with this style. The key to choosing the right pair is to be sure they are of substance – no delicate, strappy heels. Be sure there is significant depth to the sole, material and style. Heels should be as high as you can handle. If you feel like your floral piece is too formal for the occasion, pair it with a pair of slouchy, mid-calf boots to add bit a whimsy. To add edge and sass to your blooms, opt for well-worn ankle boots to keep everyone guessing about your fashion intentions.

The elegance and boldness of these clothes calls for the same in your makeup, but don’t think “elegant” and “bold” has to mean loads of color. Quite the opposite, a damp sponge makes foundation application light and a dusting of translucent powder is all you need other than a pinch of pink for your cheeks, well groomed brows that frame liner and mascara free eyes. Red and burgundy glosses mix well to create a lip color that enhances the natural brightness of your pout without creating a heavy matte finish. Think little girl innocence in playing dress-up in Mommy’s closet.

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