New Year's Goal: A Fashion-Forward 2012

Happy Friday, everyone! I don’t know about you, but throughout the past year, I've lapsed into somewhat of a fashion rut, especially when things get hectic. Perhaps my work-and-study from home regimen is partly to blame, but whatever the reason, I continuously find myself reaching for the same tried and true staples again and again with little motivation to change things up.

Well, no more!  After a thorough cleaning of my clothing, jewelry and makeup collections last week, it’s my goal this year to be much more mindful of just how many options I have in all of these areas and, most importantly, actually put them to use.  

Between generous gifts from friends and family members, plus plenty of shopping trips with my mom and sister in Southern California, the holiday season definitely added more than a few new pieces to my rotation, helping me get excited about trying different looks and styles throughout the coming months.

Here, a glimpse at some of the fresh additions, which I hope you’ll see again in the more frequent outfit and fashion-focused posts I’m aiming to put together. In any event, here’s to a fashion-forward 2012!

This classically styled dress, purchased on sale for $20 at JC Penney, is versatile enough to wear on its own during the warmer months or paired with a cover-up when things get cool.  

 I just love the too-cute cat print accenting this lightweight frock, and especially loved its $26 price tag at thrift chain Buffalo Exchange. 

 Another bargain find, this A-line jean skirt on clearance for just $7 at H&M will be the perfect casual weekend piece throughout the summer. 

A chunky bracelet in some of my favorite colors can help punch up just about any basic style. 

I'll be New Year's Eve-ready come next December with the help of a twinkly necklace and earring gift set. 

A multicolored beaded clutch offers a welcome change from my standard black patent purse. 

Lightweight scarves in pretty patterns will carry me right through into spring. 

Though it wasn't on sale, I simply couldn't resist snapping up this $70 top at Anthropologie. With its neutral shades and eye-catching pattern, I'm sure I'll get enough use out of it to more than make up for the price! 

Fingerless gloves are just what I need to stay warm and stylish when facing down winter's chill. 

Last but not least, a Bobbi Brown bronze highlighter pen, NXY light blue liner and shimmery Stila Rhapsody palette allow for a variety of looks to best complement all the different styles I'll be wearing. 

Are you good about using all of the clothes, jewelry and makeup in your collections, or do you have a tendency to lapse into the same routine, like me? Did you come upon any great holiday bargains this season?