Welcome to our latest post, where we discuss how to wear colour in midlife. This stage of life brings an opportunity to refresh your style and express yourself in new ways. We're advocates of the capsule wardrobe with neutrals as its building blocks, but there is definitely room for colour which many of you love. Whether you're looking to inject a splash of colour into your outfits or completely overhaul your colour palette, we've got you covered with tips, tricks, and inspiration for wearing colour with confidence, including some invaluable advice from our Senior Stylist and colour expert Ros Giles.
WHY EMBRACE COLOUR NOW?
Reflecting Where You Are Now
Midlife is often a time of reflection that can lead to a better understanding of who we are, what we really like, and what we want out of life. Ros says, “The colours we love are often the ones that suit us best. You have to feel comfortable in the colours you wear.” Whether you're drawn to the cool blues, warm reds, or earthy greens, there's a perfect colour for you. It's about discovering the colours that not only complement you but also make you feel like your authentic yourself.
Boosting Your Mood
It's well documented that colours can significantly affect our mood and confidence. Ros explains that “wearing the right colours and colour combinations will skyrocket your confidence.”Incorporating brighter shades into your wardrobe can lift your spirits, especially on those grey, dreary days that are all too familiar in the UK.
HOW TO INCORPORATE COLOUR INTO YOUR MIDLIFE WARDROBE
Start with Accessories
If the thought of wearing a bright yellow dress or a bold red coat feels daunting, why not start with accessories? A bright scarf, a bag or even a colourful piece of jewellery can add a pop of colour to your outfit without overwhelming you.
Find Your Flattering Colours
Not every colour works the same way for everyone, although we'll add a caveat by saying that you can wear any colour you like. However, if you're worried that a particular shade doesn't suit you but you love it, wear it away from your face. Ros says, “Putting together your own unique colour palette will save you time and money.” So, if you want to know once and for all which colours suit you best, book a session with Ros. She can conduct a colour analysis for you and give you the confidence to experiment with colour.
MIXING AND MATCHING
Colour Blocking
Colour blocking is a fun and modern way to wear bold colours. Pair pieces of solid colours together in one outfit to create a striking look. The key is to combine colours that are either complementary or analogous (i.e. colours that are close together) on the colour wheel, ensuring harmony in your outfit.
Balance with Neutrals
If you're not ready for full-on colour, balance your brighter pieces with neutrals. A brightly coloured top can be paired with navy or beige trousers, or a colourful skirt with a white top. This approach allows you to play with colour while maintaining an accessible look that mixes and matches with the rest of your wardrobe. Ros emphasises the practicality of this approach, highlighting the importance of a wardrobe that maximises wearability.
