When winter hits its cold-temperature stride, our outfits often mimic the bleak, dark days of the season. While there is definitely room in your wardrobe rotation for your trusty black and navy picks, why not try to lighten up a little this season? Stick to a neutral palette, but opt for light grey, white, cream and oatmeal hues for a fresh take on winter dressing.

Winter white
An all-white outfit is an easy way to make a statement—the monochromatic look is always eye-catching. For winter, we recommend adding a subtle Breton stripe turtleneck under a white sweater for a little variation, and wearing white or cream corduroys (instead of denim). The heavier fabric is seasonally appropriate but still fresh. White footwear isn’t the most practical—especially with the snowy, slushy sidewalks to navigate—so stick with a chunky pair of loafers in a basic black.

Polo neck top, $20, zara.com ; Wilfred sweater, $125, aritzia.com ; Corduroy jean, $22, joefresh.com ; Loafer, $104, urbanoutfitters.com

Go grey
A cozy grey knit is a winter staple. Wear it under a wool vest or blazer in a similar hue and add a pair of simple grey skinny jeans. While a great ankle boot would work here, keep it casual with a pair of off-white or grey sneakers.
 
V-neck sweater, $29, joefresh.com ; High-rise jean, $164, jcrew.com ; Wool vest, $170, mango.com ; Reebok sneaker, $89, urbanoutfitters.com

Oatmeal #ootd
Creams, beiges and oatmeal shades work especially well with light denim. Wear a knit sweaterdress in one of these shades over your favourite pair of jeans. Add a cable-knit beanie in classic cream and a pair of brown or tan booties—this western-inspired pair is great pick.

Wilfred Free sweater dress, $165, aritzia.com ; Levi 501's, $118, aritzia.com ; Cowboy ankle boot, $90, zara.com ; Cable beanie, $23, asos.com

Read more:
Sweater weather: 9 cozy pullovers
How to make green work for you
The best beanies, tuques and winter hats to wear this season