Thursday, July 28, 2011

NICELY NEUTRAL: CLASSIC SHADES OF BLACK, CREAM, BEIGE AND WHITE WILL NEVER GO OUT OF STYLE...



A stylish alternative to this season's bold prints and neon shades, nudes and neutrals are another huge trend that's hit the high street. First spotted on the catwalk by the likes of MaxMara, Chanel, Chloe, YSL and Gucci, it's a fresh and modern look for summer. From second-skin nudes to greys and creams, the palette is subtle, but vast. The high street has championed the look and there's something to suit every taste and budget. Mango's spring/summer collection is a winner this season and includes some stunning pieces for all occasions. Its selection of elegant nude maxi dresses are perfect for a summer wedding of special occasion.

Stretching from a deep cream to the palest dusty rose, neutrals are everyone's friend. But why neutrals?After bright colours, the fashion wheel has spun again and the trend is now towards a gentler palette. Sugary pastels can be as hard to wear as brights but neutral covers a decent range of tones created with varying depths of pinks, peaches and even khaki so make sure you choose an item that doesn't leave you looking washed out - the right colour will make your skin look warm, not dead.


Anyway, its hard not to be enticed by clothes in the colour of such grown-up luxury, and there will definitely be a hue that suits you. Camel for instance is the colour of coats that reek of money, class, and a dry cleaner on speed dial (That's if you're wearing MaxMara of course).Grey is the colour of fine beautiful knitwear, preferably cashmere, while beige is feminine chic. They are colours in which you can only be cool, calm and collected.

Whether you're dark, blonde or somewhere in between, cream is also a colour that flatters. On tanned skin, it looks sensational, but equally on pale skin it compliments rather than drains in the way that white does. Mixed with darker shades of camel, black, white and pink, you'll find cream a classic. Look out for knitted separates at House of Frazer, cream lace dresses at French Connection and, for absolute style, invest in Stella McCartney’s nude satin blouse, €415, at Brown Thomas. But it's not simply the designer labels that have chosen this classy colour. At Monsoon, cream is a big fashion statement and they take it into night with lace and beading through their cream collection to give it a romantic feel.

Even worn with darker shades, cream can lift an outfit. Add cream-coloured accessories and you'll realise how versatile this neutral colour is. There's certainly nothing boring about it. Choose cream and you'll be adding a touch of class to your wardrobe. Neutrals are adaptable. You can layer them with each other, or use them as a contrast to a bright colour or a classic such as navy or black. But you don't have to go all neutral -- mix beige heels with a bright dress or bright tops with khaki trousers or add a new neutral top to a pair of your favourite old jeans.

This is a romantic, elegant and very wearable trend that will see you through season after season, so invest in good classic pieces that will stand the test of time. Buying separates also allows you to break them down and wear with the coming high summer's safari look, as neutrals are one trend that really do go with everything. Perfect.
 

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