Today I realized how much trouble I’m in — it’s only the first week of December, and I’ve got the wintertime blues. And, all things considered, the weather has been quite mild. Thankfully, in the land of fashion, designers have already presented their own versions of spring, so even living under this cold, gray sky we can make-believe it is warm.

Open-weave sweaters:

The Michael Kors spring 2011 collection is modeled Sept. 15, 2010, during Fashion Week in New York.

Trends from the ’80s have been in-style for a year or two now, so it only seems appropriate that designers are still pulling ideas from these same strings, reinterpreting them in a new direction. Open-weave knitwear will make a huge comeback this spring — but I say, why wait? Loose-fit, large-knit, almost-holey sweaters are a perfect layering piece and a brilliant way to add texture to any winter outfit. Look out for a cropped, open-weave sweater with long, lanky sleeves or a tank dress that you can wear over something more substantial until springtime. You will be amazed by the versatility of your knitwear, adding to your personal style when paired with everything from dressy skirts to simple blue jeans. See versions by Michael Kors and Tom Scott, Spring 2011.

Muted hues:

A model presents a creation for Giorgio Armani's Haute Couture Fall/Winter 2010-2011 collection presented July 6, 2010, in Paris.

Soft, muted colors worn on winter days feel wonderfully cozy and ultra-feminine. So easily our winter wardrobes become dominated by dark, drab colors like black, brown and gray; although we all love the utilitarian functionality of such colors, softer tones are just as wearable and easy to embrace. Pick out smooth crème sweaters, beige cardigans, mauve blouses and tan, desert-toned accessories. After all, doesn’t the idea of such a soft, comfortable color just sound so fabulous? Mix your muted apparel with other natural accessories and neutral prints. Think warm, gold jewelry, tan leather accessories, leopard-print handbags and simple, understated outerwear. Check out leather goods by Donna Karan and Dooney & Bourke and soft, feminine apparel by The Row and Balenciaga.

— Caitlin Donnelly can be reached at go@ljworld. com.