Looks like the temperature in California went down a few notches because Nicole Richie was seen dressed like it was winter as she left another traffic school class last March 31. The socialite-cum-fashionista was also complaining about her allergies, another strong sign of a cold weather.

Nicole Richie (March 31, 2010)

Nicole’s traffic school outfit consisted mostly of black and gray, including her bag and oxfords shoes; but she brightened up the whole monochromatic look with a red knitted scarf. Nice touch Nicole!

Wearing a bright or colorful scarf is a great way to give your boring, colorless look some accent. Of course, you do have to make sure that you’re wearing the right color.

If you’re wearing an outfit with colors and prints, then make sure your scarf is toned down and not too busy nor too bright. Otherwise, you will have too many accents and you will end up looking like a Christmas tree.

If you like Nicole Richie’s traffic school style, here are some bright and multicolored scarves for you to choose from:

Missoni Multicolored Scarf, on sale for US$156 from US$345 (6pm.com)

Lucky Brand Crusher Plaid Scarf, US$40

Love Quotes Hand Knotted Tassel Scarf, US$88

YARNZ  Check and Stripe Scarf, US$165

If the knitted tube scarf was “the” item to have last winter, this spring it is the silk scarf. It is everywhere this season, starting from big brands like Prada, Emilio Pucci, Gucci, and Hermes. And I mean literally everywhere, from clothing, to shoes, to accessories. Check out the items below and tell me what you think:

The silk scarf as a skirt

Prada (Resort 2010)

The silk scarf inspired swimsuit

Juicy Couture

The silk scarf inspired wrap dress

Emilio Pucci

The silk scarf inspired bikini bottom

Prada

The silk scarf inspired halter top

Gucci

The silk scarf covered and embellished shoe

Prada

The silk scarf as a tube top

Prada

The silk scarf as a belt

Hermes

Of course, if you feel the above interpretations of the silk scarf are a little too much for you, then feel free to keep the accessory around your neck.

A silk scarf always gives an air of luxury and elegance when worn so whoever wears it gets an immediate upgrade in appearance.

If you’d like a fresh set of silk scarves, then check out these embellished and printed scarf selections:

Ed Hardy Roses Silk Scarf, US$64

Madewell Mosaic Square Scarf with Fringe, US$52

Tolani Feather Inspired Scarf, US$85