Reader Question: "How to choose neutrals other than black, even though it doesn't suit my personality and I find it harsh I tend to go there all the time. I find it hard to find greys that go together as there are so many different shades. What are some of the smart solutions for combining neutrals?"
Mastering the Art of Neutral Tones: Beyond Black
In the world of fashion, neutrals serve as the backbone of any versatile wardrobe. They're the unsung heroes that provide balance, and a backdrop to the colours you wear. Yet, many of us find ourselves gravitating towards black because it's so easy (and there is so much of it available), even when it feels harsh or doesn't align with our personality or our colouring. Let's explore how to choose and combine neutrals beyond black, making your wardrobe both stylish and harmonious.
The Spectrum of Neutrals
Neutrals aren't just limited to black and grey. They encompass a wide array of off-colour wheel shades, including:
And let's not forget the coloured neutrals like:
For example here I've combined grey with denim and then a cool light beige in my boots.
Each of these shades can bring a unique element to your wardrobe, allowing you to express your personal style without defaulting to black.
Choosing the Right Neutrals for Your Palette
The first step in mastering neutrals is understanding your colour palette. A well-curated palette will include a range of neutrals that naturally complement each other. For instance, if your palette leans towards warm tones, you might find an array of browns, tans, and camel shades that blend seamlessly.
Take a look at these examples:
- Warm Browns and Camels: Imagine you have a palette with three shades of brown. These shades are designed to be worn together, creating a cohesive look without the need for exact matches.
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Cool Grays: Gray can be tricky because it comes in various undertones. Mixing blue greys with green-greys often results in a clash. Stick to similar undertones for a harmonious blend. You can use a colour in between to combine them more easily.
Smart Solutions for Combining Neutrals
Combining neutrals can be daunting, especially with the myriad of shades available. Here are some smart solutions to simplify the process:
- Stick to the Same Undertone: Ensure your neutrals share the same undertone. Warm colours mix with warm neutrals and warm neutrals work well together. As do cool neutrals
- Use Your Palette: Your colour palette is your best friend. It's designed to ensure that the colours, including neutrals, work well together. Trust it to guide your choices.
- Mix and Match Neutrals: Don't be afraid to combine different neutrals. Navy and brown, for instance, make a chic combination. Warm navy with camel or cool navy with rose beige can also create an elegant look.
- Think Beyond Matching: You don't need to match everything perfectly. Brown shoes can pair beautifully with blue jeans, or you can opt for an oxblood shoe with navy pants. The key is to ensure the overall look feels balanced and cohesive.
Embrace the Versatility of Neutrals
Neutrals are incredibly versatile and can be mixed in various ways to create a multitude of looks. Here's how to make the most of them:
- Navy and Brown: Pair a navy blazer with brown trousers for a sophisticated, professional look.
- Camel and Brown: A camel coat over a brown dress creates a stylish, layered ensemble.
- Olive and Tan: Mix olive pants with a tan sweater for a casual, chic outfit.
- Denim and Grey: Denim works well with so many other neutrals, try it with grey or camel or olive or brown.
- Denim, Beige and White: White can be mixed with any neutral easily, why not try it with a denim and beige combination.
The possibilities are endless. The beauty of neutrals lies in their ability to provide a solid foundation while allowing your personal style to shine through.
Here's a useful post all about how to build a wardrobe of the right neutral basics for you.
Final Thoughts
Choosing and combining neutrals doesn't have to be a daunting task. By understanding your palette and the undertones of your neutrals, you can create a wardrobe that feels cohesive and stylish. Step away from the default black and explore the rich world of browns, greys, navies, and more. Your wardrobe will thank you for the newfound versatility and harmony.
Remember, fashion is not just about what you wear but how it makes you feel. Embrace the power of neutrals and let your personality shine through every outfit.
What to Wear with Beige Pants
How to Pick a Warm or Cool Beige
