How to wear color and still look sophisticated

As a New Yorker I find myself looking at a monotone wardrobe more and more. Black is easy- it launders well, it doesn’t look dirty even if you spill a sip of coffee on yourself in the morning, and that LBD (Little Black Dress) always makes you look thinner, taller and sassier. But when did color become something to shy away from? Too often we are afraid of colorful clothing for fear of not looking age appropriate, but the black stops here because there are so many ways to wear color and still look fabulous!

If you’re not buyin’ it, start small. Accessories are a fantastic way to attract some attention to your look. Try a thin yellow belt with that black blazer and nothing says ‘va-voom’ like a deep red pump with your black trousers. Try anything, from jewelry to handbags; see what a little color can do for you.

When you’re ready to graduate to your closet, the easiest thing to remember is to first actually ignore the color. Why? Because you should look at the shape and cut of the garment first. Before you even think about plucking that dress off the rack, what will the style of it do for you? That means staying away from the fitted mini-skirt, or a skimpy baby-doll dress. Always ask yourself, would a 15 year old wear this? If the answer is yes, it’s time to move on.

A safe start for everyone is to shop in a store whose image is already age-appropriate for you. Sorry moms over 30, Forever 21 isn’t your store. Great middle market stores include Club Monaco, Banana Republic, Armani Exchange, White House Black Market (yes they sell a pop color every season) Ann Taylor, and J. Crew just to name a few. These shops cater to a more sophisticated client so your pool of choices is great from the start.

Now comes the tricky and fun part, start trying on! Don’t worry about what colors you’re picking, just grab what you think looks attractive on the hanger. We tend to gravitate towards colors that look good on us anyway so fear not! If you see a great outfit on the mannequins or in the window, ask a sales person for help locating it. Ask for honest opinions from the staff or bring a friend who will let you know what they really think. Once you find a piece that works see what other colors it comes in.

Ready to start combining colors? Now your choices are unlimited! The key with color is to make sure it doesn’t look like the skittles factory spit you out in the morning so here are a few tips:

• If you have a bold piece, try toning down your other outfit components. For example, a bright yellow sweater looks great with a white camisole and a navy pant, but green pants, not so much.
• Think of the color wheel. Yes that silly color wheel from high school art class. Re- acquaint yourself with terms like complimentary colors, primary colors, and analogous colors here: Color Wheel and Other Helpful information You can see that it’s okay to wear a light blue camisole with a bright blue sweater (monochromatic) or to belt a plum colored day dress with a cognac orange belt (triad colors).
• Still apprehensive? Try starting with soft colors, pastels or easy true tones. Then you can start experimenting with brighter, more vibrant shades as well as layering.

If color still unnerves you, look to a master like a personal stylist or your favorite designer. Check out runway looks from a collection you love and take them with you when you go shopping. You don’t have to spend a lot to look absolutely fabulous and dressed to impress.

Some favorite colorful looks:

Vintage Hues

Sleek and Chic

Great Style and Color Combo

For the Brave and Confident

Colorful and Conservative