by Nikki Gotianse-Tan
MAYBE it’s a sign of people’s sensibilities gone softer but more muted hues have been stealing the limelight away from the bold and the bright. Tones such as cream, taupe, mauve and ash are experiencing a weighty influx both in the runways and in everyday streetwear. It is a mood board in subtlety yet wearing pale neutrals in the right sheen and in interesting shapes can help you create strong style statements that look naturally alluring and less overpowering. One thing is certain, investing in the right skin-tone pieces can afford you neutral bases in which to build great (and none-too-obviously repeated) outfits every time. Another thing the softer side has going for them is the element of timelessness that it imbibes, taking their cue from their classic cousins crisp white and noir. Here are some ideas on how to flesh out your wardrobe and experiment with the softer styles of dress:
Down in the pumps.
Nude for footwear has been one of the more recent revelations of our fashionable times. Whether in the classic pump or strappy heels, its barely-there color gives the illusion of longer, sexier gams – something to always seriously consider. Whereas black for footwear is already an accepted wardrobe staple, it now has to make room for its more skin-ny counterpart which is turning out to be its near-equal in being versatile enough to pair with almost any ensemble.
The trail of textures.
One thing pale neutrals allow for is the imaginative and sophisticated play on textures and details. From trench coats to evening frocks, designers are bringing them on strong with calculated frill. From gowns in flowy jersey to layers of ruffles on party dresses, a sense of the delicate and romantic is primarily connoted. Even in the more casual arena, apparel in the nude palette are gaining dimension through the small facets of ruches and pleats. All throughout, a feeling of jaunty lightness lingers which is just what our warmer climates call for.
Go utilitarian.
The neutral palette is proving that it will endure due to the fact that one can apply it to a number of looks. Whereas soft drapery and frothy ethereal frocks are one option, going basic and utilitarian is another. Here, the colors of the earth, safari and the desert are chief inspirations. Troop over to the utility chic camp where the cuts and fall of pieces are cleaner, more pristine and functional to the hilt.
A matter of face.
The ultimate complement that you can pay your more neutral wardrobe is a fresher, more naturally made-up face – “day-fair”, as Julie Hoylen of Sensational Color puns. Whether it was the countless sticks of concealer the hip girls in swinging London were said to be swiping onto their lips or the way makeup sales were soaring since this ‘nude’ trend caught on, it is safe to say that doing away with a heavy hand when picking up your makeup brush and choosing your colors might be the way to go. Let your natural features show through, enhanced with just a light dusting of some blush and maybe a strong stand-out lip color.
