Wicked winter temps are kicking in, and it's time again to wrap yourself in cozy, warm clothes and don deep-hued bags and boots. From luxurious scarves and cashmere socks to high-tech gloves and fuzzy sweaters, winter fashion doesn't have to be gloomy or boring. Go outside your norm and consider adding fun accessories like faux fur earmuffs or a plaid scarf to your winter wardrobe. Choose key pieces and accessories that keep out the cold and you on trend. Here's where to start.

Gloves

If you're still wearing gloves from the last century, consider an upgrade. A new crop of texting gloves has sprung up that keep your fingers toasty while enabling you to tap away on your phone or tablet. The best styles combine the warmth and coverage you need with a snug yet stretchy fit, so you have control while you tap. You'll find touchscreen gloves in a variety of styles and prices, or you can even make your own out of mittens and puffy paint.

Scarf

A warm and wonderful scarf is key to protecting you from the chill while keeping you stylish. If you're not good with tying and wrapping, opt for a cowl or infinity scarf that simply slips over your head. Northernly out of Minnesota makes a collection of heavenly scarves that combine form with fashion. Their best seller, The Perfect Scarf, is the "go with everything" piece that's worth the splurge.

Handbag

With every season comes the opportunity to switch out your handbag. This winter, consider investing in a shoulder bag that carries you through many seasons to come. Winter handbags need to be spacious enough to stash your essentials like gloves, earmuffs, hats and scarves—yet, you don't need a huge bag weighing you down. Look for a well-made designer shoulder bag with straps that are long enough to drape over bulky winter coats but still looks sleek and chic. Bonus: To add a pretty punch of color to your look, choose a bag that comes in a perky shade such as red currant or violet.

Coat

Your coat is a key element of your winter wardrobe. While practicality and warmth are important, also think about its shape and form. You don’t want anything too bulky and too wildly colored that it clashes with your look. This season, the trench makes a reappearance along with plaid coats, tweed coats and pea coats. Coats are also getting glammed up with pops of leather or gold hardware trims. If you want a more neutral coat, try a fun jacket that incorporates leather or plaid. You can also tone a louder jacket down with low-key accessories and a neutral handbag.

Hat

Top off your look with a hat that punctuates your personality. From fabulously fake fur caps to knitted berets, the winter hat forecast is anything goes. The key is finding one that does double duty to keep your head warm and your look stylish. Fashionisers.com has a round-up of the best looks for winter 2015.