When was the last time you added a new color to your closet?  (And I’m not talking about navy or gray…)  Each season there seems to be an emphasis on a few specific colors and this season is no different.  If your curious about autumn’s hottest hues, check out Pantone, the leading authority on color forecasting. Twice a year they give us a healthy handful of options to try.

This season one of my “new” favorite colors is “red pear,” a.k.a. wine or burgundy. I consider this color to be somewhat of a pseudo-neutral. It is as versatile as navy and adds a wee bit more visual interest than black. What’s more, it flatters a variety of different skin tones.

Sophisticated and subtle, it may just be the color to inspire you to swap out your favorite black cardie (or boot or pant) for its more perky, burgundy counterpart.  If you’re looking for a little shopping inspo, check out some of my fall shopping picks.

If this season you’re thinking of giving your black bootie the boot, this one offers a great option.  Here it’s all in the details with a rounded toe, exposed zipper and patent finish. “Paired” with a full or skinny pant, it adds a touch of fashion-forward to any footwear collection.  ($389 at Bloomingdales)

Always in search of the perfect blouse, many of us opt for white or black. Yet this blouse offers an easy and elegant addition to any wardrobe. A little sparkle at the neckline captures the light and beautifully frames the face, making it a perfect choice for day-to-night dressing. ($498 at Bloomingdales)

Yes, you can love a tote that’s not black! Big enough to carry all of your daily essentials, this clean, modern, leather tote is topped with comfortable over-the-shoulder straps and offers a convenient, optional crossbody strap.  A zippered inside pocket gives you easy access to keys and your metro card. ($158 at Nordstrom)

When you are bored of the same ole, same ole…This sporty, yet chic this wide leg pant features a side stripe. I love the playful look and how the vertical stripe adds length and balances a sometimes-difficult-to-wear, wider silhouette. ($44 at River Island)

When it comes to jewelry, this season the mantra is “go big, or go home.” It’s probably why this season we can’t get enough cuff love. This one is hand crafted with an inlay of Bordeaux croc print Italian calf leather, making it beautiful addition to any day or night ensemble. ($125 at Orchard Mile)

Want to try out this hot hue, but in a more low-risk kind of way? Add it with a new lipstick. This “audacious” shade offers immediate impact and ups the ante to any colored outfit. ($34 at Saks)

Please know that I’m not suggesting that you give up on black. (Heck, no!) However, I think you’ll be surprised how adding a little color to your closet can breathe new life into your existing wardrobe. For more info on these items and my other fall picks, please check out my fall lookbook.

Carol Davidson, CPC, AICI CIP is a certified image consultant and life coach who has helped thousands tackle their careers and personal lives with confidence and enthusiasm. She believes that it’s never just about the new dress, the right bag, or the perfect shoes. It’s about powerfully walking in them toward what matters most. Whether Carol’s work starts from the outside in or the inside out, it’s always a collaboration that leaves her clients looking and feeling better about who they are in the world.  Contact Carol at Carol@CarolDavidson.com.