Fall is an easy time to bundle up and rely on the darker hues of the color wheel, like navy blue, gray and black on black. Take a risk this fall and utilize the tips below to bring some color into your autumn wardrobe.
Story by Lydia Wagner | @wydialagner
Whether you’re going for something more subtle, or you’re ready to be extra beyond belief, adding vibrancy to any outfit can switch your mood from ‘blah’ to bold. Here are five styling ideas to help you get started.
1. Channel nature through shades of orange, red and yellow.
Let the changing of the leaves inspire you this autumn. Choose one or two pieces that will make you seem festive and give you extra attitude during the day. Oranges are always safe during fall, reds are the perfect first step to adding a pop of color and yellows are surprising, bringing your outfit an icy fluorescence in the colder months. As seen below, A$AP Rocky went bold and nearly monochromatic at the Raf Simons x Calvin Klein fashion show during New York Fashion Week.
Photo courtesy of ASOS.
2. Find patterns and plaids.
Finding any piece in a funky pattern is basically a one-stop-shop for a pop of color. Plaid, animal prints and silky color-blocked patterns are most prominent in new designer collections and stores like Urban Outfitters. Whether on top or bottom, one busy fabric can transform a drab outfit. Layer patterns for a more dynamic and bold look. During London Fashion Week, Zendaya layered a checkered yellow Burberry coat over maroon plaid and a graphic-print collared shirt.
Photo courtesy of Burberry.
3. Go for bleached denim.
With cloudy, gray days ahead, icy blue denim pieces will electrify any winter look. If you’re feeling adventurous, invest in a brightly-colored denim piece. Proving her ultimate fashion supremacy, Rihanna stepped out in New York wearing all denim, and somehow using an unbuttoned mini-skirt as a top.
Photo courtesy of Harper’s Bazaar.
4. Choose a neon.
No, this isn’t an ‘80s trend revival. Colors this bold are being used in more selective, innovative ways by high-profile designers and trend followers alike. Neons can be intimidating, but one neon piece and other small accents create a glow that draws the eye. During this year’s Milan Fashion Week, Amandla Stenberg stunted a knee-length neon vest to sit front row at Prada.
Photo courtesy of Elle.
5. Color-block with complementaries.
Refer back to art class and use that color wheel. Colors across from each other are complementary and often produce the most dynamic mixtures. For example, take blue with yellow, green with pink, and red with greenish-blue. Pairing complementaries in an outfit creates an eye-catching clash. If you’re less adventurous, use more muted tones. Wear a dusty purple with olive green or something similar. Arguably the king of color-blocking, Tyler, The Creator’s most recent FW collection showcased a wide array of vibrant shades. Here, he pairs a yellow GOLF beanie with a baby blue hoodie.
Photo courtesy of The Guardian.
In a time of creative expression and individual freedom, there is no reason not to take a few stylistic risks. Whether it’s a few accessories, or an entire rainbow fit, you can’t go wrong wearing unexpected brighter pieces this fall.
