a wardrobe built on neutrals will give you a bang for your buck and facilitate getting dressed in the morning. while i love pops of color all year, round neutrals are the backbone of my wardrobe. since winter has arrived, it’s time to discuss how to wear winter neutrals.
what are neutrals? it’s a color palette defined to be without color. the four most common neutral colors are black, white, brown, and gray. neutrals don’t compete with primary colors. instead, they complement them. many of you know i’m a big fan of color and add my favorites like pinks, purples, or reds judiciously into my wardrobe. pink and black look fantastic together and is a favorite color combo of mine. neutrals can be the backdrop for the bolder, brighter colors in your outfit. but neutrals look gorgeous all on their own. neutrals are easy on the eye, visually balance your silhouette, and are an easy choice for starting any outfit.
today, i’ve rounded up a few of my favorite outfits as examples of how to wear winter neutrals. several of my recent outfits of the day have focused on neutrals. notice how jewelry pops against a neutral background and makes a statement. adding texture to a neutral outfit keeps it from looking boring. think suede, pattern, or animal print.
an easy way to build a neutral wardrobe is to select three neutral colors you like and look good on you. then begin to assemble wardrobe staples in these neutral colors.
think black is too harsh? substitute navy. for me, i wear black all year round, but i especially love it come winter as well as camel, gray, and white. these are the neutral colors that are the backbone of my wardrobe. remember, dark colors recede and help make us look thinner if that’s your goal. light colors advance and make us look bigger.
cashmere dress | duster | boots | tights | handbag
similar denim | sweater | similar faux fur jacket | similar booties | handbag | earrings
faux leather pants | turtleneck | belt | similar shoes
pants | turtleneck | similar shoes here, here and here | handbag | earrings | watch band | bracelet
don’t forget to watch this YouTube video where i style five winter neutral outfits. happy sunday, ladies!
is the Founder and CEO of Style at a Certain Age. She writes Sundays-Fridays on all topics ranging from fashion, health, wellness, home design and more.
She’s 65, 5’8, and size 8.
I think i will always have black and grey and the different whites from pure to ivory and cream but the brown colors are what I love right now. Caramel, peanut butter and chocolate colors. Rather like a peanut butter cup. LOL
I pay attention to contrast because I like a medium to low contrast. You look so pretty in any color.
I don’t know about anyone else, but I also find neutrals visually peaceful. I also find I feel relaxed and at peace when I’m wearing them.
I adore your caramel suede 3/4 coat with the black ensemble, finished off with the snakeskin shoes 🥂
Hugs from a Canadian neighbour, Beth 🧸