I love colors, and I admire people who can rock vibrant outfits and look amazing. As we get older, adding a bit of color can really give our look some extra flair.
So why do we often stick to safer, neutral colors? For me, colorful outfits lose their appeal quickly, so I end up wearing them only once or twice. Also, vibrant prints tend to have a short lifespan in my closet. Mixing and matching colors takes extra effort, and buying bright items can be expensive. Even though I appreciate bold color combinations on others, they rarely feel right on me. But I’m determined to add more color to my wardrobe for a fresher look.
Here are a few tips I’ve discovered for incorporating more color:
1. Choose Timeless Dresses in Bright Colors: Pick classic styles in vibrant shades so you don’t get tired of them too quickly. A good example is my red dress—it’s timeless but has unique elements to keep it interesting.
2. Shop for Colors and Prints During Sales: I try to buy my clothes at the end of the season when discounts are steep. This way, I can afford to experiment with colors and prints without breaking the bank.
3. Introduce Color Through Accessories: Using colorful handbags, shawls, belts, glasses, and watch bands is a cost-effective way to add color. These items can last for years and update any outfit.
4. Invest in Colorful Shoes: On a recent trip, I bought bright red high heels. Paired with matching accessories like a red belt, handbag, and watch band, they can turn a plain dress into a trendy ensemble.
Let’s see how women over 40 wear colors stylishly:
In New York, I saw a woman in a sleeved dress, paired perfectly with fuchsia shoes, chic accessories, a great haircut, and an infectious smile. She looked fabulous.
Carola Vecchio looked stunning in a floral dress with a red hat. Dresses with a dark floral pattern are versatile—great for vacations or paired with boots for fall.
Jackie looked amazing in a printed dress with elegant accessories, including a Chanel bag. She was on holiday in Singapore but lives in China.
Another fashionista caught my eye with her great mix of colors, creating a flattering silhouette with a high cardigan. These cardigans are popular in Singapore for their light layering.
During a party at Singapore’s Mandarin Gallery, I noticed a woman named Mieke from the Netherlands. Her dress and cardigan created a perfect look for her body type and added a vertical line to elongate her figure.
Anja adorned her dress with a lovely flower corsage, showcasing how accessories can enhance an outfit.
Combining bright colors with neutrals makes it easier to wear. Black is a go-to neutral, but dark blue or brown are good alternatives if black feels too harsh.
Here’s a quick style tip to incorporate colors:
– Get a patterned skirt.
– Pair it with a solid top that complements the skirt. Black works well, but other dark neutrals can also do the trick.
– Add a beautiful accessory.
One woman looked incredible using this simple yet effective formula.
How important are colors to you? What are your tips for adding more color to your wardrobe?
