How To Wear Colour In Autumn/Winter

The Brighter The Better This Season

“Bright, bold colours are everywhere this season,” says stylist and SL contributor Anna Bromilow. “Bright apple green, cobalt blue and sunflower yellow are my favourites at the moment, styled in a pared-back way during the day or more flamboyantly for night time.” Influencer Soraya Bakhtiar agrees: “This season I’m really into green, particularly that bright, almost neon green popularised by Bottega Veneta. I recently bought a green blazer from Zara, which is really nice styled with a clashing bright pink, or with neutrals like black, brown and denim.” 

…Or Go Tonal

Alternatively, Anna recommends a head-to-toe look with a tonal colour palette “A combination I come back to for daytime wear is a pair of Isabel Marant pale pink jeans and a cherry red oversized knit. Unless it’s a coordinated look or a dress, bright colour looks better complemented against slightly differing shades rather than precisely matched, as it adds depth.”

Colour Blocking Creates A Striking Look

It’s not for the faint hearted, but head-to-toe colour blocking will make a statement for all the right reasons. Whether you choose to clash top and bottom or stick to a tonal palette, there are a few combinations to keep in mind if you want to get it right. “I particularly love pink and red, plus green and blue or purple,” says Soraya. “It’s important to understand which colours are warm (red, orange and yellow) and which are cold (blue, green, purple). I find it easiest to mix colours in the same ‘family’ and also ones that suit your skin tone best. There are some helpful videos on YouTube if you’re unsure about which colours will complement your tone.” Anna adds: “I am obsessed with pink and red, and I also like yellow with ochre, plus teal and pale blue. Try a bright slip dress and chunky knit or coat, or colour block a bright, languid evening suit with a satin blouse – very Helmut Lang.”

You Can Also Use Print & Pattern

Wearing brights needn’t always be about block colours. Instead, use patterns with hints of brights to break up a neutral autumn wardrobe. “A bold check that adds a pop of a primary hue is a great way to subtly add some colour,” suggests Danielle, “as are stripes in red or green, and florals, which offer a much-needed lightness to the layers and chunky textures you see during autumn/winter.” Anna is on the same wavelength: “Floral prints are always a good idea and there are plenty on offer in autumnal tones and denser fabrics – try a winter floral dress layered up with knitwear. I am also obsessed with tartan and tweed, as they don’t work at all for the summer, so I tend to try and make the most of them during A/W.” 

Experiment With Accessories If You’re Apprehensive

“If wearing a bright jumper, coat or trousers feels a bit daunting,” says Danielle, “adding one colourful accessory – like a bag or shoes – is the perfect way to inject a bit of personality into your look, particularly for the evening.” Anna also likes to experiment with a bold accessory choice: “I love wearing a camel and then throwing in a pair of orange or green shoes or bag. Also, a classic combo of jeans, a bouclé blazer and bright bag always works well, as does a double-denim look with bright shoes.” Soraya suggests a silk scarf: “Tie it onto your bag or around your neck for a playful injection – sometimes the smallest details make a huge difference.” 

Head To These Brands First 

“Mira Mikati is one of my favourites for playful colourful pieces,” says Soraya. “Otherwise, Zara and Uterque always have a great selection, while Ganni and Staud have some fun pieces this season.” Anna suggests: “On the high street, Arket is great for bright knitwear, and Massimo Dutti has some sophisticated separates. For a designer investment, Roksanda is the queen of colour and manages to combine modern bright tones into effortless, abstract prints. Gucci, Prada and Miu Miu are also great for colour at the luxury end.”

 
Follow @Anna_Bromilow, @SorayaBakhtiar, @LittleFashBird