Fall and winter are usually the seasons where our outfits take a turn for the dark and neutral. We've packed up our bright, patterned sundresses for next summer and out come the gray and black sweaters. But this doesn't have to be the case. There are ways that you can work those bright summer pieces into your winter wardrobe.

I got this hot pink dress from Marshalls over the summer and it was one of my favorites. It's an effortless shape and the color makes me stand out. So I found a way to transition it into the colder months by pairing it with black pieces. My black cardigan, black tights, and black booties tone down the dress and make it winter appropriate. I wore the gray and white plaid scarf just to split up all the black and to add a fun detail with the plaid. 

Wearing all black also makes the bright dress the focal point of my outfit, but at the same time it keeps it from looking to summery. It's all about finding a balance with the colors! And you can definitely do this with any other bright, summery piece you have that you thought had to stay in summer.

Remember, fashion has no rules.

Dress: Marshalls, similar color / Cardigan: H&M / Scarf: Old Navy, similar / Booties: H&M, similar

The first trick is finding the skirt that works for you. There are many different shapes and materials available in the midi length, but if you don't pick a style you're truly comfortable with, it will be harder to style with the clothes you already have. The minute I saw this one I fell in love with it; I liked the fact that it wasn't tight, but wasn't too full. The fabric hangs down, but the pleating gives it more shape. The stripes and thinner fabric also makes it more casual.

When it came to styling, I knew I wanted to go sporty, and what better way than to throw on a pair of sneakers! My shoes along with the denim jacket were a perfect casual balance to the natural femininity of the skirt. For a pop of color I've been into neck ties recently! I like to mix patterns so I chose this red plaid one, but any color bandana would work really well also.

I know that trends can be intimidating, but it's really about finding the right way to incorporate it into your wardrobe. Never compromise your personal style for a trend, because you never know how long it will last. My best advice is to wear what makes you comfortable and confident, and you'll look fabulous no matter what.

Skirt: J.Crew / Sneakers: Saucony similar or try Adidas / Sweater: Forever 21 old, similar here / Denim Jacket: C Wonder old, try this style / Neck tie: Thrifted, try a bandana!

The "Half-Tuck" is probably the least common way to tuck in a shirt and the hardest to pull off, however I personally love to do this with my button-down shirts. It's an easy way to make your look more casual, but still balance out your proportions by not hiding your waist-line. I recommend wearing a belt when you do this tuck to make your outfit a little more put-together. 

Also, when doing this style always remember to pul the tucked side out slightly--you don't want the shirt tight against your stomach, because it will look less proportionate with the untucked side. For the same reason, choose a shirt that isn't too long, or if it is, go with a lower waisted pant.

Next time you're feeling ambitious with your outfit, definitely try styling your button-down this way!

Dress: Forever 21

Heels: Cole Haan

Necklace: H&M

 Cape: Jockey

Sweater: Old Navy

Jeans: Hollister

Boots: Vince Camuto