7 Easy and Effortlessly Chic Ways to Wear Color
Although some fashion snobs have labeled it inelegant, wearing color can actually look quite chic.
I may be the one New Yorker who doesn’t make wearing black a personality trait. In fact, I wear color throughout the year and especially during the summer. The chartreuse shades and playful stripes are in, while the little black dresses are pushed to the back of the closet, reserved for special occasions. While I can’t deny the timeless elegance of black, bright hues feel like a better match for the warm seasons. Picture lush greenery, fluffy cotton candy, clear blue waters and golden beach afternoons, and you might get the idea. When it’s warm out, the air bursts with a certain energy that only a colorful outfit can capture.
Although some fashion snobs have labeled it inelegant, wearing color can actually look quite chic. You only need to see Christopher John Rogers’ sharply tailored suits or deftly constructed dresses to believe otherwise. Or, peruse the websites of Kai Collective or Hanifa for clothes that spark joy. Some people avoid color like an ex at a mutual friend’s party, but once you open your wardrobe to it, you might start to experience its mood-boosting effect. Plus, who doesn’t love matching their bathing suits to their cocktails when on vacation?
For the color-shy shoppers, accessories are the least intimidating (and often the most fun) way to start incorporating it into your everyday look. Could be the charm on your necklace, the pattern on your tote or the straps of your sandals. On the sartorial side, consider mixing delicate prints or playful stripes with your go-to pieces. On the other hand, if you’re feeling bold, put on the most eye-catching orange or purple dress, and pair them with matching heels. Ahead, see all the different ways you can wear color this summer.
Start With the Details
Photo Credit: NYCXCLOTHES, Abisola Omole, NYCXCLOTHES (left to right)
Leave it to a statement-making blue fringe panel or a graphic neckline to elevate an otherwise simple black dress. You may not be ready for a complete overhaul, but subtle color additions can effortlessly breathe new life into your looks. It’s all in the details, isn’t it? The print of a dress, the colors of a stripe pattern or a sash. Take things to the next level by matching your bag and shoes to the dress detail.
Lean Into Pastels
Photo Credit: NYCXCLOTHES, Nana Agyemang (left to right)
A pastel palette is the perfect cheat code for making the transition from a neutral to a livelier palette. Be it a lavender top, a soft pink dress or a light yellow matching set, pastel colors are great for the shy dressers who still want to look good without having the attention on them. Take a cue from the styling here and keep the accessories simple. A dainty necklace and matching studs will always do the trick.
Experiment With a Range of Prints
Photo Credit: Gezelle Renée, NYCXCLOTHES, Delanique (left to right)
Loud prints are not for the faint of heart, but luckily there are subtle motifs that can deliver the same level of style. Whether it’s a flirty cherry print, a cool color gradient or a swatch of paint, there are plenty of subdued options that are just as potent visually. Alternatively, prints that showcase a mix of dark and light colors are also a great place to start. As for the rest of the look, keep the focus on the main event by opting for minimal accessories.
Matching Sets Are Your Best Friends
Photo Credit: NYCXCLOTHES, Demi B, Kathryn Zahorak (left to right)
If you already look and feel effortless in a matching set, why not try a colorful version? Matching sets can solve the problem of wanting to stay true to your style while experimenting with something new. It may feel challenging to style a standalone purple top, so take the guesswork out of that by simply going for a pre-made co-ord. You can also wear the sets that mix two contrasting colors like this ivory and avocado Reformation Iskra Linen Two-Piece.
Center Your Look Around a Statement Piece
Photo Credit: NYCXCLOTHES, Chainky, NYCXCLOTHES
If head-to-toe color doesn't feel right, try styling a single colorful piece with your usual dark mix. Whether it’s a neon-and-blue striped halter top worn with black jeans or an olive-colored bodysuit worn with an off-white skirt, you can balance the visual effect with your more neutral pieces. It still counts as trying it out, but doesn’t stray too far from your comfort zone. The right combination will ultimately feel playful, elegant and understated.
Go All Out With Simple Silhouettes
Photo Credit: NYCXCLOTHES
When wearing head-to-toe color, I often find myself gravitating towards simple silhouettes. Think like a slip dress, a simple halter or a straightforward shape with ornamental details. A super bright dress can feel intimidating even to me, but that’s when the choice of shoes comes into play. Opt for a pair of kitten heels, some strappy sandals or flats (if the occasion calls for it) to optimize proportions and keep the silhouette light.
Enter Color Blocking
Photo Credit: Chainky, Indya Brown, Gezelle Renée(left to right)
This one’s for the adventurous dressers! If you feel bold enough to clash colors and patterns together, color blocking is a fun way to do so. Embrace the full power of a bright blue top and purple pants combo, finished with block heels that match the top. Or to keep it simple, go for a one-and-done dress that incorporates its own colorblocking. The key to mastering color blocking is by embracing shades that are either complementary to each other or are completely unexpected (Miuccia Prada would approve).