If you follow my Instagram feed you may have noticed a recurring theme of black and blue outfit combinations.
Black and blue basics make up the bulk of my wardrobe capsules each season, and for good reason:
1) Black goes with everything… EVERYTHING,
2) Blue, I’ve come to realize, is a color that goes well with me.
Blue compliments my skin tone and, fortunately for me, comes in enough hues to keep my wardrobe interesting and versatile. My two favorite hues are Navy and Cornflower.
And then there’s denim.
One of my ultimate favorite blue key pieces is this classic jean jacket from Levis. I found this cropped version at a local fashion recycling boutique/consignment shop.
An all-black ensemble creates a blank canvas to showcase this classic and dependable clothing staple, The Jean Jacket.
Nautical by Nature: Who doesn’t love a good stripe?
A nautical stripe, or Breton shirt in navy/white is a such a big staple in my wardrobe that I probably have enough to wear one every day of the week.To avoid being repetitive I look for the same pattern of stripe but in different cuts, such as this Uniqlo tank below (sold out – see similar linked), or a maxi dress.
Identifying the colors that work for you is part art and part science.
There is plenty of research one can discover online to determine which hues work with your skin tone. This information can be confusing to apply to your situation.
My advice, when it comes to color, is to trust your or instincts and be honest with yourself.
For example, As much as I want to wear orange I accept that getting the hue to compliment my skin tone is a tricky proposition. Rather than forcing what could result in a fashion faux pas (a.k.a “HOT MESS”), I opt instead for an accessory in that color such as a clutch, floral print shoe, or sunglasses frame. Another creative option is to incorporate a bold print on an all- black background (again, working with a blank canvas to create pop and interest). This option can be very rewarding if your favorite color happens to be troublesome for you to wear.
Having a color palette that you know works for you is the key to developing a successful capsule wardrobe, and makes getting dressed pressure-free because you aren’t spending valuable time stressing about whether or not you look good in different colors.
Xoxo,
TenKeyPieces
