Use neutrals as your backdrop. A touch of yellow, orange, or green can provide quick impact in an everyday outfit.

Add Just a Little Color with a Belt

A strip of yellow takes this conservative style (left) from basic to a little more bold in seconds flat. Since the patent-leather belt is so intense, keep the rest of the look toned down and allow the belt to become the focal point of the outfit.
To Buy: Fantas-Eyes belt, $10, Rainbow, www.rainbowshops.com for locations. Kenneth Cole navy matte-jersey dress. O by Oscar de la Renta leather sandals (shown at left).

Add Just a Little Color with Shoes and Jewelry

Jeans and a white shirt risk looking run-of-the-mill. Brighten up the outfit with add-ons in citrus shades: Classic ballet flats are surprising in tangerine leather, and the Lucite bangles in lime add a touch of fun.
To Buy: Zoe leather flats by French Sole, $130, 212-737-2859. Alexis Bittar Lucite bangles, $125 and $150, 212-625-8340. Ellen Tracy stretch-poplin blouse. Express jeans (shown at right).