Patent leather anything.
A patent leather shoe, belt or clutch will instantly infuse some shine back into your wardrobe; just don’t wear all three at once! Try combining a basic work pant with colored patent leather pumps to mix up drab office attire. In search of an evening look? Red patent peep-toes always make for a fun night out.

Wide-leg trousers.
Although more and more people are converting to the skinny jean, don’t throw out your wide-leg trousers just yet. Skinny jeans will still be a staple in spring, but tailored trousers are ready to make a comeback too. Demure, French-inspired blouses look great tucked into these pants and if you don’t have a romantic, lightly ruffled shirt, any blouse will do. Finish off the outfit with a strappy heel or even some metallic flats.

Refurbished boots.
You have them in your closet: a quality pair of black leather knee-high boots. Even though jeans worn over boots will always be classic, give your pair the attention they deserve and wear them with a skirt or wrap dress. The move immediately contemporizes your style and allows you to show off just enough leg. Remember, though, that your boots may need to take a visit to the shoe repair shop. You want them polished and clean because scuffs and cracks were fine when they were hidden under a layer of denim, but not anymore. If you’re feeling really daring, try pairing ankle boots with opaque tights and a graphic mini-dress. Worried you’re too Edie Sedgewick? The swinging 60s is what 2007 trends are all about.

These simple buys will update what you’ve already got without having to tap into your new-purse fund. The real lesson here? Don’t ditch your staple pieces. Who knows what you’ll be paring with your cream cashmere sweater next season.