Neutrals

All the creams, beige, black, browns and whites. However the Near Neutrals, grey, navy, blush, etc (listed on your swatch with an (n)) are all considered neutral. Wearing neutrals can make getting dressed easier and can also help you create a more minimal wardrobe.

The colours blend well because they’re so similar to each other but often lack contrast, particularly helpful for those of you with a medium to lower contrast in your look as these combinations will never overwhelm you. For this guideline I am referring to wearing these neutrals by blending them so as not to create contrast.

How to wear neutrals

Mix different textures and fabrics

Creating interest is key so mixing up the textures of your neutrals through different fabrics are an easy way to do this. Pair white denim with a chunky open knit topped with a cream silky scarf. Mixing and matching fabrics creates interest instantly.

Play with patterns

This creates more interest while wearing neutrals. Think about mixing a chunky knit with plaid. Or something geometric with stripes or polka dots. When mixing patterns, try to pair a larger print with a smaller scale to have a visually balanced look.

Use statement accessories

Tying it all together is always key. And a good statement accessory can do just that. Take just a cream top and trousers. Nice…but add a really cool and interesting statement belt and you’ve got a more wow outfit. The same goes for a statement shoe, or an interesting bag. These little details are just small touches but they can really make your head-to-toe neutral look feel so much more intentional and stylish.

Mix neutral tones

There is absolutely no need to make sure your cream top is the same as your cream bottoms. The only thing I’d stick to is a colour palette from head to toe in your neutrals. Creams and beiges? Go for it. Make it head to toe and it all feels so much more cohesive. Having some repetition and consistency in your shades and tones will help to make it feel more intentional and elevated.

Use denim as a base

If you’re nervous to wear all neutral from head to toe, especially creams and tans, try grounding it all in denim. Any shades of blue denim would work and it can help you try out all the mixing and matching. The same rules still apply as you can mix and match tones and textures to create interest throughout your look.

Introduce metallics

Metallics add colour in a neutral look. A copper shoe looks fabulous with brown, khaki, beige, or black. Silver perks up cool tones and gold is the perfect complement to warm colours. A metallic belt or bag would also add a hint of glamour.