CREDIT: ACHICCRITIQUE.COM
Cross-body bags are on-trend and practical for the on-the-go girl.

Whether you're wandering through Forever 21, Banana Republic, H&M or Gap, the clothes are generally similar. A pair of dark-wash skinny jeans? How inventive. A grey chunky knit sweater? Let's not reinvent the wheel. It is becoming increasingly difficult to stand out in the crowd when the crowd all shops at the same places. The most fun way to express your individual style and make the most of your wardrobe is by choosing fun and funky pieces to accessorize your outfits.

Footwear is a good place to start. A rotation of practical, dressy, warm and sexy shoes never leads a girl astray. Not only can the right pair of shoes spice up a humdrum outfit, rotating which shoes you pair with each ensemble can really stretch out your wardrobe and make the same outfit work for different occasions. An on-trend shoe lineup for the fashion-savvy female this winter includes flat knee-high riding boots in a black or dark brown and a pair of lowheeled suede (or faux suede) ankle booties with eye-catching details (think exposed zippers, studs, fringe or faux fur trim). Add in a pair of ankle-high flat biker boots and a more practical pair of winter boots like Sorels (or any other brand of water-resistant, rubbersoled boots that will keep your pedicured toes warm and dry), and you're good to go.

In terms of jewellery, the motto this season is "more is more." For everyday wear, simple, thin jewellery is always best. It also makes it easier to stand up once you pile on the layers of necklaces, bracelets and rings that are all the rage right now. To keep up with the trends, stack a few thin bangles on your wrist, layer on a few necklaces with trendy pendants like the infinity sign, a wishbone, or your initials, and then slide your fingers into rings upon rings. Thin rings can be layered, for example a trio of white gold, yellow gold and rose gold, or a couple of simple monogrammed rings. Skulls, crosses and roses are among the most popular motifs for jewellery and other accessories. That is not to say that bold jewellery isn't current. A statement necklace will not go amiss if you pare down the rest of your outfit, makeup and hair. Not to be forgotten, watches are having a moment that just won't end! The bigger the better, men's-inspired styles are taking the masses by storm. If you don't have the cash to splurge on real rose gold, there are plenty of affordable options that look the part!

Handbags can be divided into categories for clutches (evening appropriate), cross-body bags and purses you sling over your shoulder. Boxy, rectangular envelope clutches are a must-have for any night on the town. Cross-body bags are a practical, "look, Mom, no-hands" option, which make them perfect for taking to school, shopping, out for a coffee date or wherever your day takes you. These are done best in dark, neutral colours, like a rich chestnut or an inky black. Over-the-shoulder purses are taking a more professional turn, with structured, ladylike options becoming more and more popular. Their size and structure allows you to slip in your wallet, makeup bag and a file folder or small tablet to take your work on the go with you.

My favourite part of getting dressed is taking my look to the next level with funky and individual accessories. I might wear the same old jeans and t-shirt, but my accessory choices make a bigger statement about my personal style. Do what you like, do what makes you feel good, and, most importantly, be like Madonna and "express yourself"!