by Isabelle Esteves

Created on: January 12, 2013

Color is defined as “the property possessed by an object of producing different sensations on the eye as a result of the way it reflects or emits light.” Using color in your wardrobe can be a frightening prospect. It might be that you have a predominantly black or dark wardrobe, or at the other end of the spectrum there is the totally neutral wardrobe.  Both of these suffer from the same deficit: lack of color. Does this mean that you need to adopt every bright color trend that comes along?  Not at all. There are many ways to brighten up your clothes without giving up the dark or neutral wardrobe items. Referred to as “pops of color,” here are a few options you may want to try.

The first step in adding color to your look is to determine the colors that are the most complementary to your coloring. If possible, go to a professional and determine what your coloring is spring, summer, fall or winter. If you need to do it yourself, this website can help you determine what looks best on you. 

Once you have determined which colors will make you shine, start with a small piece in that color. A scarf is a great and inexpensive way to experiment with color. Tie the scarf close to your face and find a mirror with natural lighting. Don’t trust a store dressing room mirror, as the lightening is harsh and will not give you an accurate result. Try to see yourself with sunlight or at least home lighting. Hopefully some of your friends will notice and give you some feedback. Once you have broken the ice, try going for a large piece of color -- a blouse, tee shirt or sweater in one of your best colors.

There are many ways to add a pop of color. Jewelry like earrings and thick, chunky bracelets come in a wide variety of colors. A colored belt or a great new purse in a bright color adds a pretty touch to dark or neutral clothes. Once you are feeling a bit more confident with color, why not look for a classic little black dress and a bright pair of shoes, a neutral trench coat with a bright pashmina or even better, forget the little black dress and get a colored dress in a classic style and add black or neutral shoes.

Color is a great way to try the latest trends. You can find inexpensive items to experiment with and keep your best buys for the darks or neutrals. There are new and popular colors every season and florals have been especially popular for several fashion seasons. By choosing a floral you are not only on trend, but you can add color to your wardrobe as well. There are so many different types of colors -- soft pastels, neons, brights and jewel tones are all possibilities and in small pops can be worn by just about anyone.

Learn more about this author, Isabelle Esteves.
Click here to send this author comments or questions.