by Katie Hinderer

Created on: December 12, 2008

From the time we are born we associate the color pink with girly-ness. Thinking back to the all pink outfits you donned at 2, and the pink room we lived in until you had the nerve to demand a different color on our walls, many of us shy away from the color later in life. But although the hue changes pink is a color that tends to stay in style from season to season. You don't need to fear donning pink. You can pull it off and not look little girls. Here's how...

Buy pink hues that are more subtle or muted. Don't jump from no pink, to bright fuschia or neon pink. Go with light baby pink or raspberry (which has a touch of blue).

Pick pink clothing that looks mature. Pink baby doll dresses or bold floral patterns can take you back to your younger days and give exactly the look you were trying to avoid. A pink button-down woven under a black suit, or a more tailored shirt dress in pink is probably a better bet.

Not into the all-pink motif? Stay away from looks that rely too heavily on the color pink. Pink pants and pink shirts are adorable on toddlers and hideous after that point. Pick one pink focal area. Either your shirt, or pants/skirt. Try a pink shirt with jeans of a black skirt.

Still too much? Try making pink just one of the layers in your look. Put a pink t-shirt under a black tee so that just the bottom pokes out. Or wear a pink shirt under a black sweater or vest. A layer of pink tights or leggings can work too, if your legs don't appear too long and pink. (stay away from mini-skirts and pink tights!)

Even this layering technique can be overwhelming for those who have not worn pink in years. If you need to ease into the color think accessories. Try buying a pink pashmina-style scarf and layering that with a basic black or gray shirt and your favorite jeans. Or try some chunky pink bracelet. Grab a pink belt (skinny or thick) and use that to cinch a cardigan closed or around a longer shirt. If you aren't ready to wear a lot of pink but still want to try the color out you can purchase a pair of cute pink shoes, heeled or flats. A pink high heel is far from girly and may be just the right item to introduce into your wardrobe.

If you want to try pink makeup remember: moderation is the key. You don't want those crazy bright pink blushed cheeks of the 80's or eyes that stand out from the piles of pink you placed on the lid. Go for a light rose color on your cheeks and lips. For your eyes a light pink on the inner lid mixed with a subtle brown on the outer half of the lid is your best bet.

As you become used to pink in your closet you will be able to try some bolder styles, hues and combinations. And as with all fashion - ask a friend what they think of your look, just to make sure you are edging toward the girly look you'd rather avoid.

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