Spring has sprung which means lighter and brighter colours are replacing the grey and black tones that dominated your fall and winter wardrobes. For some, shades like yellow, blue, pink green, and purple can be scary. But we’re here to tell you that they don’t have to be. Here are some top tips on how to incorporate pastels into your wardrobe this season.
Do: Wear pastel trousers. Really, we encourage it! Too often people view these delicate colours as options only for tops. That simply isn’t the case. There are few looks that rival the crispness of a pair of sage green trousers with a fitted white Oxford shirt.
Don’t: Allow them to wash you out. We’re not saying that you need to go on holiday or get a spray tan (we’d never recommend that…) but we are saying that you need to bear in mind your skin tone when wearing pastels. If you’re light-skinned, stick with pale blues and avoid yellow. After all, you don’t want to blend in with your button-up shirt.
Do: Buy something pink. Whether you’re going for something dusty and soft and bold and bright, pink goes with everything and has since the 19th century. Connotations of girlishness are old news and we’re seeing pink pop up in more and more top fashion lines. The best part? Pink goes with practically every colour. No, seriously! Try pairing it with brown, beige, blue, olive and – of course – white. If you’re weary about looking too flashy, start small with a tie or pocket square.
Don’t: Mix and match too many colours. We don’t want you to end up looking like salt water taffy or a dish of Neapolitan ice cream. Keep it simple with either one pastel accessory, a pastel-coloured top, or – as we suggested – pastel trousers. The rest of your outfit should be rather muted to highlight seasonal hues.
Do: Invest in a nice, light jacket, like a Harrington. It’s perfect for the wishy washy Spring weather and adds a sense of personality to even the most basic outfit. But, be mindful of choosing a flattering colour and make sure it fits perfectly. It should be symmetrical, proportionate, and the shoulders should fit snugly against yours.
Don’t: Be afraid to wear a pastel tailor made suit! It’s easier than you think, especially when you consider how easy it is to mix and match pastels with neutral colours. A lilac or rose-colored suit jacket goes perfectly with white, grey, or tan trousers and you can have a lot of fun with accessories, especially if you’re daring and willing to experiment. And remember, pastels aren’t just for summer weddings. Show up to the office in a smart, pale blue suit and see how many heads you turn.