Did you know that the “winter blues” are actually a real psychological disorder? That’s right, 9.7 percent of people living in the cold region of New Hampshire were said to experience Seasonal Affective Disorder compared to 1.5 percent in warmer Florida. This week’s Fashionista, whose hometown is Charleston, South Carolina, has found a way to escape this unique depression despite her blustery studying days in central Illinois. Her secret? “I wear bright colors all year ’round.” Going against some fashion advice of the past, you don’t need to throw out or put away all of your favorite summer staples. Mixing the sunshine of summer style into that giant sweater pile can help you be dynamic and fearless against those dull winter days.
First thing to remember: take it slow. Your goal is to add a pop of color that will allow you to get a head start on the imminent spring collections. Start with the correct type of fabric, which probably eliminates some of your dazzling pieces. The ones you’re allowed to rock throughout the cold months should be made of relatively heavier fabric. Avoid items made of lightweight chiffons or flowy silks, but keep out your thicker cottons and linens. Playing with different texture combinations can also be a great way to incorporate luminosity into the richness of hibernal January.
Creating contrast is key in achieving this look. Pairing very light or neutral colors (tans, browns, grays, whites, blacks and navys) with bright hues is a great way to feature both seasons in a cohesive look. Some specific color combinations you could try include coral and tan, bright orange and dark teal, eggplant purple and lime green, charcoal gray and light blue and almost any summery shade with black, white or dark brown. Choosing a loud pattern or print like one of the many, new spring florals or a classic neon stripe is another option. This Fashionista embraced both of these rules, pairing a plain, white blouse with her favorite raspberry, eye-cat reminiscent jeans. Think your outfit’s still too flashy? Tone it down like this Fashionista did with earth tone accessories or use layering to your advantage. For example, hiding a bright shade of red under a shadowy shade of gray will allow you to add some warmth to your look without going over the top.
Apply this concept to your next frosty night out. Pair your favorite little black dress with that loud fuchsia blazer you’ve been saving for spring. Avoid summer-suggestive open toed shoes, trading them for your favorite bold, close-toed pumps. This ice is too thin for you to walk on? Feel confident you won’t fall through in violet, fuchsia, fire truck red, coral or hot pink lipstick paired with a matching clutch.
Adding vivid colors to your dull winter wardrobe can help you feel happy and radiant, while uplifting your dreary spirit. Amp up your wardrobe and open peoples’ eyes with your brilliant personality!
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