Adding Pops of Color with Rouge and Whimsy

I was so excited when alissa asked me to write a post about wearing color. I hadn’t realized that I wear a lot of colors but once I took stock of my closet, I realize I do actually love a mix of color.

First off, let’s be honest. I live in Seattle. And before you all go “whoa– doesn’t it rain a lot there?” let me correct something. Yes, it rains, but there are other cities where it rains more. What is true about Seattle is that it’s GRAY a lot. Overcast. Picture London fog but over Seattle.

While I could wear gray and black and blend in with my surroundings, I find that little punches of color really does wonders for my mood– especially when I’m missing the sun.
So how to do I add color?

1. Pops of bright color.

If you’re a little hesitant about bright red, bubblegum pink, or a hot trend– NEON– do it in small doses, ideally in an accessory. (I’m currently on the hunt for a neon belt to add to my collection!)

Here I’m wearing neutral blues but rather than choosing a brown belt, I chose a patent leather red belt, which I’d like to think makes it a little more interesting and cheerful.

2. Accessories!

As mentioned, colors are great in accessories. I’m a bit of a scarf fanatic and often add my accent there. It doesn’t need to really go or match– if it’s a solid or small print, it’s a neutral!

Another fun way is to add color with tights. I love my plum tights here. While my dress looks a little blah (cute, but blah) the purple adds a lot of interest.  (p.s. if you look real close you can see my dog– he’s wearing color too– in his handmade dino costume. more about that here and here.)

3. Shades

 

Purple and mustard together? To be honest, I was hesitant. But the key here was that I stayed in the same color family– rather than pairing mustard with lilac, or pastel yellow with plum, I’m sticking with the same shades and depths, which creates a more cohesive look.

But on the other hand– sometimes you just have to go for it. You’ll never know what looks good until you try it on! Walk around your house– dare yourself to go to the grocery store. You never know– the crazy color combo you created may end up being your new favorite look!

Thanks for having me Alissa!

I blog over at Rouge & Whimsy and have an etsy shop filled with colorful accessories for you and your home. I’d love to see you stop by or say hi to me on Twitter (I’m on there a lot.)