I’ve never been that into Valentine’s Day, but seeing as I am always into red why not embrace the Hallmark holiday simply for an excuse to become une fille en rouge and eat even more chocolate than usual? It’s all in the name of romance, right?
As a powerhouse hue, red is always a go-to color for me. Be it a simple splash or full on head to toe dowsing, in my opinion you really can’t go wrong with red. For color-lovers and neutral minimalists alike, this color can be statement making or understatedly chic. I think what I love so much about this color is its versatility and effectiveness.
While I enjoy spending time reading and writing about style and fashion, I often don’t spend much time actually getting dressed. I hardly ever have the time for it, and in truth I always feel best in things I pick out on the go, which is where statement colors play a large role. Either as the main event in the form of a dress or tailored separate, or the side act as a coat, shoes, scarf, or earrings, vibrant red is like a magic wand for adding instant chic and polish.
For me, the key to creating that je ne sais quoi is putting in the work on the front end building a hardworking closet so that getting dressed really is effortless. Everyday basics in your favorite neutrals are fundamentals in a functional wardrobe, but classic pieces in bold, rich colors put the FUN in those fundamentals (and never go out of style.) From casuals to cocktail attire, classic separates and footwear in vibrant shades of red are guaranteed options for upscaling casuals or relaxing tailored looks to embody understated elegance.
It’s safe to say I’ve been on a major red binge, but I’ve also found myself feeling quite keen on pink lately, which is something entirely new to me. I’ve always enjoyed the idea of pink and admired it on others, but it’s always felt too girly for me. That said, over the past few years I have accumulated a few pink-hued separates here and there and recently I have really enjoyed experimenting with them in finding ways to make the color feel a bit less sweet and more boyish.
So far, I’ve come up with two components that make even the most pink-averse like myself, feel more comfortable and confident in the color. First up is in the shade. Pink is definitely less daunting to wear in paler shades of pastel and dusty pinks. Some dusty pinks like the color of this handkerchief are so soft they almost act as a nude but also bring out the pinks in your natural features. This is my favorite handkerchief to wear because it’s a trendy piece that doesn’t feel trendy. The nude shade of pink is so close to my skin tone that it blends in whilst making the most subdued of statements. If you’re wanting to experiment with a trendy accessory without feeling ostentatious, a dusty pink is a good way to go.
Secondly, I really love the dynamic of mixing pink with menswear. The combination balances out the feminine and masculine components creating an equilibrium of powerful prettiness. For this look, I chose a neck scarf, sailor stripes, suit pants, and my favorite white tennis shoes. I’m a die hard stripes lover, and despite the pink, this top was a no brainer for me last year when I bought it. This 3/4 length style breton top is the most worn top in my closet, so whenever I find one in my size on sale I snag it. I normally wear this stripe top with denim, but when I was digging through my closet looking for pinks to wear with these red pants, I really loved how the two-toned stripe would create a gradual blending from the dusty pink handkerchief down to the red pants. While pink and red can be a bit cliche during February, including another shade from the pink to red spectrum can put an edgy spin on the traditional Valentine’s Day colorblock.
Another way to play with Cupid’s colors is playing with different textures. Layering textures always adds depth and richness to an outfit, and it’s definitely the best way to mix and match for monochromatic or colorblock looks. One of my favorite textural combinations during winter is tweed and silk. It’s elegant, classic, and evocative… essentially the epitome of Valentine’s Day. Silk button up shirts are staples in my wardrobe. I love them with denim, but also use them to layer under sheath dresses during the winter. The soft drape and silky smooth fabric of this tailored separate is perfect with pencil skirts for work, or with denim and flats to host a dinner party at home. For Jewelry, they’re best worn with a statement earring or very delicate necklaces.
Any pink colorblocks well with red, but I particularly like the raspberry shade of this skirt because it’s a red-tinted pink so the pairing isn’t too jarring. Another way to shed the girly girl vibes and embrace pink in a modern way is with rich textures like tweed, lace, silk, patent leather, and linen; and also with classic patterns like sailor stripes, gingham, and houndstooth.
Accessories and shoes with a Chanel-esque black/white combination are my go-to neutrals for color. A black/white combination is classic, but more interesting than a single neutral on its own. And don’t forget that animals prints are always fantastic as neutrals, particularly in a black and white snakeprint.
Now go get your chocolates! XO
