Ask A Fashion Editor - How to Wear Color

STRIKE THE RIGHT BALANCE

First and foremost, striking the perfect ratio of vibrant-to-neutral tones is paramount; grounding your look in classic hues of black, white, beige, and navy lays the perfect foundation for layering on brighter shades. “I recommend a 70:30 balance,” says THE OUTNET’s Style Director Sinead Cutts. “For color afficionados, go as bold as you like with tone-on-tone looks. For beginners, keep things pared back with just one vibrant piece within a softer palette.” Consider a timeless beige trench from Bite Studios as your foundation, and balance with bright pants from Zimmermann or a colorful cardigan by our in-house label Iris & Ink.

FIND YOUR FAVORITES

While we’re firm believers that you can make any color work for you, some hues might appeal to you more than others. There are a variety of tricks you can use to find your favorites. “Hold different tones up to your face in daylight to see which ones make you look and feel your most radiant,” says Cutts. Of course, there are no real ‘rules’ here and you should always take into account your personal preferences – nothing sparks joy quite like wearing your favorite color. Invest in standout pieces such as Stand Studios’ vibrant coat or everyday staples from Jil Sander in your go-to hues.

EXUDE CONFIDENCE IN COLOR  

Speaking of feeling your best, color can embolden you as you go about your day. Color combinations can also leave lasting impressions on those around you – Cutts suggests lifting your office look with a bold blazer from Jacquemus or mixing navy or gray closet foundations with colorful printed separates such as Dries Van Noten’s printed cotton-poplin shirt. For parties, go all out in a jewel-colored satin midi dress such as Stella McCartney’s sky-blue style.

BRIGHTEN YOUR LOOK WITH VIBRANT ACCESSORIES 

Not sure if you’re ready to succumb to head-to-toe color? Invest in bold accessories to add an unexpected hit of color to neutral looks. Winning finishing touches, like a bubble-gum pink Stand Studio handbag or a neon beanie by La Ligne, will take center stage against otherwise minimal foundations in the chillier months.