STYLE ADVICE OF THE WEEK: Contrasting Colors

In last week’s post, the featured Fashionista showed us how to rock a bright color paired with neutrals and funky patterns. But why stick to only one bold hue? This week’s Fashionista shows us a great way to include more than one fun color into your ensemble.

The first thing that catches my eye about this Fashionista’s look is her vibrant teal mini skirt. She pairs the skirt with a coral lace bandeau. Over the top, she throws on a sheer black lace button-down with cap sleeves. She adds some spice to the ensemble with fun accessories. She wears a mini tea cup ring, an intricate, bronze snake bracelet, an elephant necklace and more. She completes the look with a pair of nude, patent leather flats. This Fashionista keeps her beauty routine simple, wearing only a subtle cat eye and keeping her hair down and straight.

If you’d like to replicate this Fashionista’s look, keep in mind that what makes the outfit work is the fact that she is wearing contrasting colors. Monochromatic looks are typically successful as well, just check out this Fashionista from SCAD. But colors close to each other on the color wheel can sometimes be an eye sore. Leave it to your own discretion though. Fashion never has real rules, only guidelines.

Another thing to keep in mind when wearing more than one bold color, is not to go overboard with the color of your shoes and accessories. Neutrals are always the best bet. This Fashionista keeps her look cool by wearing the black top and the nude flats. Throw on a fun purse and a great pair of sunnies, and you’re ready to stroll the streets!

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STYLE ADVICE OF THE WEEK: Contrasting Colors

For most fashion savvy individuals and anyone not living under a rock, it is common knowledge that a “matchy-matchy” outfit is a major fashion faux pas. As much as I hate to admit it, my absolute favorite outfit in the 5th grade, which was composed of a pair of orange shorts, a white T-shirt that was embroidered with orange lettering and orange tube socks, simply would not be acceptable today. Actually, it probably wasn’t acceptable back then either, but that’s beside the point. What is important to note is the emergence of contrasting colors being worn in coherence.

Take a look at this Fashionista’s contrasting colored ensemble: her turquois top and crimson skirt create a look that is chic, simple and on trend. A skirt similar in style and color can be found at Forever 21, while NASTY GAL carries a skirt that amps up the color in a solid neon yellow. Both skirts can be paired in comparative style to this Fashionista’s outfit. One of the best things about this trend is that most of us already own a solid colored shirt or pair of bottoms; it is much more affordable to only have to buy one more piece of clothing to match, or technically mismatch, what you already own — cheap couture, as I like to call it. The key to creating a look with contrasting colors is to balance the mismatching elements with neutral pieces.

A pair of tan shoes, as photographed here, keeps this look from seeming tacky and overdone; a pair of crazy bright shoes or an obnoxious pattern would veer from fashion into people wondering if this person owned a full-length mirror. NET-A-PORTER has a pair of rag & bone tan boots that make a perfect neutral staple. For any of you not living off of ramen noodles and surviving as a broke college kid, there are a pair of tan Prada platform oxfords with a slight pop of color available at Sak’s Fifth Avenue.

Most importantly, don’t over-analyze your clothing choice or take it too seriously. Afterall, mismatching colors is all about having fun with your wardrobe and taking risks!

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