As cooler weather settles upon us, we all want to stay warm, and in doing so, we want to look hot. Whether you’re a buyer or an exhibitor, you’ve got to stay connected with the current styles, looks and trends, but that can be difficult to do on your own. At the Helen Brett Gift and Jewelry Shows, we always make sure to have the most recent fashions, jewelry and accessories available to you. So, here are a few things to look for this winter.

To begin with, gone are the dull browns, grays and blacks of winter. This season, color is the key! And, not just any color—bold color. Statement-making colors are the choice of the top designers and department store buyers this year. We’re talking tomato red to orange, gold and brilliant violet. These stand-out hues are perfect for a statement piece of accessory. A coat, bag or hair accessory in one of these brilliant hues is a must-have item.

And with the bold colors comes color blocking and a revisiting of the “Mod” styles of the 1960s. “Mod” is one thing, but “Austin Powers” is another. Don’t overdo it. Combining a Mod statement piece with anything from an ultra-modern outfit to a traditional suit can make all the difference. This youthful, exciting style is all the rage on the runway and people are sure to be clamoring for it.

Sweaters will also be quite in vogue this year. I know what you’re thinking. Everyone wears sweaters in the winter. True. But, this year, a relaxed, oversized fit that extends past the hips is order of business. Introduce a popular bold color or an eye-catching print and you’re ready to go. These sweaters are great with jeans or a skirt and can even be belted and worn as a dress if you’re feeling adventurous.

Cape May, New Jersey’s Tanir Fashion has an interesting assortment of fashionable sweaters among other great merchandise. Make sure to check out their booth the next time you visit one of Helen Brett’s Gift and Jewelry Shows to see some of these newest styles, textures, colors and prints!

Speaking of prints, you’ll find that both in clothing and accessories, mixed prints and colors are very fashionable. You should feel free to mix patterns and colors that normally would have been taboo together. This works especially well with geometric prints for fun, updated looks that transition easily from day to evening.

Mixing prints is one way to add texture to any ensemble. Another way is by actually adding texture. Feathers and faux fur are ”all the rage” for outerwear and bags. These untraditional textures are being used with a wide range of fabrics and sheens. Similarly, metallics are very popular this season in everything from blouses and cocktail dresses to bags and coats.

Make sure to visit our exhibitor “Unique Styles Out of Texas” at one of our upcoming shows. Their amazing selection is sure to offer you a lot of different ways of combining all of the best new trends and styles of this winter. You’re sure to find what you’re looking for—from geometrics to shiny bronze, copper and gold textures.

And, speaking of metallics, let’s take a look at the trends in jewelry for the winter season.

Fashion jewelry will always have an important place in women’s daily life, and trendy fashion jewelry allows women to express themselves in new, exciting ways with charm and confidence. Just as we’re mixing patterns and colors, we’re also mixing metals, tones and textures with our jewelry. On the runways, we’ve seen that diversity in jewelry choices will make for an exciting look.

The 2011-2012 season is all about feathers. From hair accessories to unexpected designs, feathers are dominating the look of the next several months. Feather brooches, bracelets, scarves, braids, necklaces and feathered bags are going to pop out all over. We’ve already seen how popular the feather earring has been. Colorful feathers combined with beads, shimmering stones, metals and leather will warm up even the coldest winter day.

Finally, for jewelry in the coming months, layering is a must. Multi-layered chain necklaces either alone, dripping with charms or a metallic tassel will dominate the fashion world this winter. Don’t be afraid of intricate designs or of combining designs. The more eye-catching the better! A wreath of chains or multiple strands of shining crystal beads showing behind a bold jacket will make a bright, cheerful statement. Why not add a brooch to the mix? That way, you’re adding one more layer of excitement to your outfit. Metallic flowers and creamy bead brooches are an excellent counterpoint to your assertive color-palette. You can count on these trends to liven up an ensemble for nearly any occasion. For a look at these trends in action, visit our Dallas-based exhibitor, Pink Box, at an upcoming Helen Brett Show.

Keep these in mind when shopping this season. Whether you’re buying for yourself or stocking your booth or showroom, these are the style notes which will be on everyone’s minds in the coming months. And, to see which of our excellent exhibitors will be showing these exciting trends, visit our website at www.gift2jewelry.com and search for any keyword in the “Exhibitor Search.”