6 Ways to Update Your Look This 2013

Katrina Ramos Atienza is the blogger behind Plus Size Fasyon Mudra, a style blog that dresses up the thrifty, luscious, and/or maternal. She's the author of The Thrifty Mom's Guide to Style, The Pink Shoes Trilogy, and The Hagette. She's also the mudra behind mommstyle.tumblr.com.

It's the second month of 2013: high time to appraise your wardrobe and give your closet a big dose of inspiration! But what should you get to update your style? It's tricky: the Daily Mail reports that 2013 is the "year of no trends," reporting that designers have offered a smorgasbord of options -- from men's wear-inspired to retro ladylike; tough to twee; textured to slinky. Instead of a signature look, 2013 is all about owning your style and putting a personal spin on classics. 

This can be both freeing and terrifying. Aim to play around with your style and have fun with your accessories. Treat the year as a chance to discover and refine your personal look. Here are six key pieces to help you discover just what that is!

1. Something Girly

From HBO's "Girls" to Manic Pixie poster girl Zooey Deschanel, there's something to be said for going the cute and dainty route -- and upending expectations. Wear this sweet cardigan from Kamiseta with something unexpected, such as distressed denim mini or a naughty miniskirt. Black tights amp up the New Girl factor.

2. Something Glam

Inject some much-needed sparkle in your life with these gold glittery flats from Meet My Feet (via Zalora Philippines). A little glitz goes a long way to uplift the mood and add a dose of the unexpected to an everyday outfit. Pair these shoes with a standard white tee and dark jeans and bring a smile to people's faces. The best part? These flats bring on the glam without the pain of high-heels!

3. Something Sheer

Sheer and flowing tops have been in style for about two years now, so if you haven't committed to this trend, now's the time to start! A lightweight, long-sleeved sheer top drapes very beautifully against the body and is especially forgiving if you're not in the mood to show off bumps and curves. This Alexia top from Bayo is even better for the contrasting color details on the shoulder and chest pockets -- instant cool!

Feeling a bit high-brow? Or think that you've got designer chops? Head on over to these fashion designers and buy an item or two or send in a design of your own! 

4. Something Tough

Everyone needs a rock 'n' roll t-shirt. For the days when you feel a little badass, deploy a bold graphic tee and take a page from style icons like Alison Mosshart or Adam Levine by pairing it with a tailored blazer, slim trousers, and statement sneakers. Chic, understated yet still bold, it'll get you through the day. This Whiskey-A-Go-Go-inspired tank top from Human would be a great piece to start with.

5. Something Flirty

When you wake up with "I feel pretty (oh so pretty)" stuck in your head, there's only really one logical option: a fun, swingy, cheerful skirt. This Spring Fling jacquard skirt (via Zalora Philippines) has a great print, and its darker hues keep it from becoming too cutesy.

6. Something Bold

Bored to death of the typical blue jeans, dark trousers and undying brown pinstripes? One of the most fun ways to shake up your look is with a pair of bold-colored pants. Get something in a deep, rich hue so it can match with your neutrals most dramatically. This burnt orange pair from Hang Ten (via Zalora Philippines) adds more interest with the diagonal seaming detail. 

Bring any of these six style staples into your wardrobe mix and give your outfits an instant lift. Happy shopping!