Mixing and Matching Colors in Fashion
Fashion today is just one of the many ways we, as individuals are able to express our unique personalities. Using color to express ourselves is one of the most common and unique ways to go about showing the outside world who we really are. While it is impossible for me, or anyone else for that matter, to tell someone how to use color to express their creativity and unique sense of style, the following loose guidelines may help in choosing the colors and patterns that most closely resemble your style that you would like to portray.
Contrasting Colors
Contrasting colors in fashion are one of the more bold statements you can make with your style. Oftentimes, black and white are the most common contrasting colors seen, but there are other bold choices as well. Some other bold, contrasting color schemes include blue and orange and purple and yellow. While these colors make quite a statement, it is imperative that they be worn correctly in order to look professional, fun, and put together rather than like a clown that just entered the Barnum & Bailey's Circus. Black and white is a no-brainer way to go if you are in a rush and don't have the time to devote to choosing a coordinating outfit. I do suggest, though, that a splash of color be added to a black and white ensemble to represent your personal statement more closely. Perhaps you choose to accessorize with bold pink jewelry, or a classy pair of red heels.
If, however, you choose to take the more bold route and go with purple/yellow or orange/blue, I recommend a more subtle approach. Maybe you wear a purple sweater with your favorite pair of jeans and accessorize it with a bold piece of gold jewelry like a long, chunky necklace. Or maybe you choose a pair of navy pants and camisole with a peach cardigan. The key to using contrasting colors to your advantage is to remain subtle - the colors will speak for themselves.
Play on the Season
Another way to use color that I have found effective is to build your ensemble around the season. A chocolate brown skirt with a sage green sweater would be more appropriate for fall than summer, while a baby blue skirt with yellow jacket would be more appropriate for spring. While it may sound risky, the key is to use the most common colors found during that particular season. Keep in mind, though, that you do not want to go overboard with this color combination and risk looking like a giant Easter egg or Christmas tree. If in doubt, replace one of your colors with either white or black and accessorize using the original color.
Playing with Patterns
Bold color is not the only choice in expressing your personal style through clothing. Patterns are not only an effective way to mix up your wardrobe, but add additional color palettes as well. The key to patterns is to keep it simple. One patterned item is plenty for an ensemble - a classic polka dotted blouse with a pencil skirt, or pinstriped pants with a vibrant turtleneck. Using more than one pattern sometimes comes off as looking childish, so sticking with one pattern, and possibly accessorizing with chinky jewelry is plenty.
Don't be scared to use pattern on unexpected items as well. A classic pair of pumps in black and white tweed or black and white polka dots is a bold choice, but works with a number of different outfits. Pair black and white patterned heels with a vibrant sweater or jacket for an even bolder statement.
While I could go on and on about the color combinations available to express your sense of style, it all boils down to one point color should be used to express your own personal uniqueness. These are just a couple of examples of how color can be mixed and matched in your wardrobe, however, I hope that you are now able to envision all the possibilities that lie within your closet. Have FUN with color and your expression, and you will always wind up looking and feeling great in whatever you choose!