Colour Concepts Fashion stylist, Kirstie Smillie, looks at how to wear colour. There may be talk of a monochrome trend this winter but colour was very much alive on the catwalk and the designers showed us how it’s done. Most of the time we know which colours we like and keep it simple by paring with the neutrals of black, white, and all shades of beige and soft greys. But for those days when you need a boost, be brave and think about the Colour Wheel. The Two Colour Option, (colours sitting opposite each other), are complementary shades which have the power to ‘pop’. Even if it is a little detail or a narrow belt, the choice of colour could be more interesting than just black. The Three Colour Option, sit in a triangle which can rotate to unite the Primary colours of red, blue and yellow or the Secondary shades for more interesting combinations. This is often noticed in printed fabrics; the choice of colour lifting its neighbour. We have obviously learnt from nature - the green leaves of chard have powerful fuchsia pink running through it and the iris with its
perfect purple and brushstroke of yellow. Prada’s beautifully edged coat and Dior’s eye-catching dress stand out from the crowd. These shades are very vibrant, so for every day think about wearing them in softer tones and different percentages, not 50/50; maybe 80/20 or even 90/10. It’s a hint that is needed, not a shout! In high street terms this is easily translated. Take the rich royal blue shirt by Reiss, and to add a pop of colour go to the opposite shade and introduce a warm orange leopard belt by French Connection or for evening, a narrow golden metallic belt. Jigsaw’s bottle green knitted biker jacket would look great with jeans, but for a warmer colour option, try their deep red cigarette trousers. For tonal dressing take inspiration from Gucci this season. Soft shades of sage green and slate blue are easy to wear and it’s the different textures of leather and fur that add the interest. Vibrant shades of reds and fuchsia are powerful yet wearable with black accents. I personally have to be in the right mood for colour and print - ready to take on the world knowing that I may be looked at (and judged) more than if I wore my trusty jeans and pastel sweater. I often opt for a gorgeous printed scarf, full of colour, movement and cosiness. It’s an easy way to add the rainbow of colour into your outfit. You now have all the knowledge - use it wisely and choose your moments. And enjoy.
What colours say: Blue is noted as one of the most popular colours to wear in the world and in an interview situation, blue symbolises loyalty and control whereas grey represents confidence and allows the interviewer to focus on you, not what you are wearing. Black Brown Purple Green Yellow Blue Red White Grey 8
- Black is the colour of authority but too much can be unapproachable. Soften with textures. - Brown conveys reliability, stability, and genuine character. Lift with soft pastel shades. - Purple gives the impression of luxury, wealth and sophistication but is sometimes too bold. - Green is easy on the eye, calming, refreshing and balancing. Mint through to Bottle. - Yellow signifies cheerfulness and creativeness but can be overpowering if there is too much. - Blue gives the impression of trust and logic and is calm and peaceful. Simple to wear. - Red is an emotional and powerful colour, exciting and courageous. Choose occasion wisely. - White denotes simplicity and cleanliness and always works in unity with other colours - Grey is sophisticated and confident, and easy to lift with any other colour. vantagepointmag.co.uk