Embracing the power of colour!
As I wandered thoughtfully through the pandemic lockdown months it was mother nature that taught me the most. Looking at how the flowers and creatures embraced their beautiful shades I realised that in these times of trouble, the world really needs colour! As a chick who loves a good black outfit I have learnt to embrace colour a lot more in my later years, and would certainly encourage everyone to try.
Women have always used colour to send a message or cheer themselves up. Remember Ms Biden, Harris and Obama all in shades of unifying purple during the inauguration 2021? (the shade purple representing dignity and long since acknowledged as a bipartisan colour). Even black can be a statement as shown in the 2018 Golden Globes when the Hollywood elite chose to all wear black as a protest and to raise awareness for “Time’s Up”. The Queen often wears bright citrus colours to make sure everyone can see her in crowds of thousands.
We all know that certain colours suit certain skin tones. I am dark with olive skin so love bold shades, monochromes, glitter - anything to balance my overpowering dark hair. So what colours should we be loving in 2021?
Let's start with pure and simple monochromes. Top to toe white was very popular on the virtual catwalk. A pure colour for new beginnings?
Anyone lucky enough to get their hands on this H&M Simone Rocha beauty can feel very smug.
But don’t worry – black is still on trend! This year it is in slinky pieces with cut-outs and skin revealing details. I will not be flashing skin through holes this middle-aged year, but rather wafting in a billowy black dress that covers a little more. But you get the point.
Love this Victoria Beckham cut-out dress spring 21.
However I will be wafting around in this Arket organic cotton tiered dress
And even better – combine these colours! White tops with long black skirts and trousers, or black and white spots are always an investment. This Warehouse oversized collar blouse is a classic.
For those who love softer colours do not despair. Think meadow pastels with peony pinks, pale yellow, bluebell and lilac tones. Sky blue seemed to be the most popular of these colours on the catwalk so pull out that pale blue top, shirt or pale denim jacket and rock the sky blue trend.
This & Other Stories voluminous puff sleeved mini dress is the perfect pretty blue for summer - with jeans first, then bare legs in the sun. You will keep forever.
If your skin suits warmer colours it is all about cardinal red and burnt pumpkin orange. Think strong sunset colours or red top to toe. I am definitely pulling out my old H&M and Ghost red dresses this season - hot colours definitely bring out the siren in us!
I adore this Ghost red Trinity dress
The ochre hue of this Zara blouse cum jacket will be perfect worn with 70’s style jeans or over a slinky knitted dress.
If you are brave, a wonderful addition to the bolder colours this season is bubblegum or hot pink. You need to be confident to wear this shade but wow what a statement you will make. I may settle on Opi nail varnish in Two Timing instead! Or try a pink bag to add a pop of colour.
Love a shimmer? Metallic finishes replace sequins this season, and I am loving the silver shades. Great to wear with casual items, or under coats and jackets. Rethink that old silver top you never wore for Christmas....
And finally, those who yearn to mix in fashion elite circles need to follow one important statement from colour experts Pantone. Who revealed this year that “Illuminating” — a bright yellow hue — and “Ultimate Gray” - a formal pale grey - are its 2021 Colors of the Year.
With both synchronously representing unity, stability and hope.
💛 And at Conscious Closet we love a bright yellow!
Sarah xx
Why not book a styling session with Conscious Closet to find out the best colours for your skin tone, and how to wear colour combinations? We can work to a suitable time and session for you – just contact us on studio@conscious-closet.co.uk for more information
