How To Wear Color, According To Four Style Insiders
Whether you prefer sumptuous jewel tones or pretty pastels, it’s all about letting an abundance of color into your wardrobe this season
Abisola Omole, creative director and CEO
Abisola Omole (known to her 82K+ followers as @abimarvel) is a creative director, writer, interior designer and CEO based in London. Her minimal yet playful sense of style and eye for color are documented on her beautifully curated Instagram feed.
“I think there’s something to be said about the power that color holds; as much as I love a really relaxed minimal outfit, there’s something special about what color can do to a look – whether it’s to brighten or improve your mood, set a tone or start a conversation. To me, wearing color gives me the opportunity to constantly redefine and rediscover my personal style.
“I am a big fan of color blocking and monochromatic outfits. So, I find myself wearing two tones of one color and then a second color just to give an outfit a nice pop. I also love playing around with color when it comes to accessories; for example, I’ll wear a gray dress or an all-black outfit, and then my bag will be bright green or red. I just love that juxtaposition; it’s so fun but also really classic.
“It can depend on the palette, but generally speaking, when I wear color, I feel like I’m having more fun and I feel a little less serious. I love how strong I feel when I’m wearing a really deep, bold red or green.”
Anouk Yve, content creator
Anouk Yve is a Netherlands-based content creator with a meticulous eye for clean, minimal design. While her looks lean on neutral tones, Yve likes to experiment with color and incorporate a vibrant accessory or two to make her outfits pop.
“If I have an event or a day that asks for more statement dressing, I do choose color because it can make me feel more seen and out there. I avoid harsh colors, but love an unexpected neutral, like a faded rose pink combined with a brown suede bag, for instance. If I use a color like red, it has to be a statement piece such as a coat.
“At this moment, I’m very into everything khaki green – preferably from head to toe. I’m also loving light blue, which is perfect with jeans. Khaite always manages to introduce new neutral colors I love, like a burgundy monotone look that I think is just so smart. I’m also obsessed with The Row’s knotted satin mules at the moment.”
Monikh Dale, fashion stylist
The London-based stylist Monikh Dale makes everything she wears look effortless. Known for her minimal sense of style, Dale is a pro at incorporating interesting colors and shapes into her everyday outfits, which she shares with her 388k followers on Instagram.
“Color can bring an outfit to life, and it doesn’t have to be head to toe. A pop of color can revive an old look that you might start to get a little bored with, which does happen to me, as I buy [pieces] to wear over and over again. The Row look (pictured), which I have worn in all seasons, was starting to feel like it had lost its magic until I mixed up the layers and accessories. Adding some yellow during spring made it feel almost new again.
“As we go into fall, I start to lean into dark greens and deep burgundy. I’m a real fall/winter girl; I love the styling opportunities that layers bring.
“I’m a simple dresser. I collect pieces of clothing that I’ll have for years to come and will want to wear on a weekly basis. I also love to wear pieces that feel like me – something that has a little of my personality in it and flatters my features. I find that buttery yellow is a shade that complements my skin tone, as well as my wardrobe. So, investing in that tone, whether it’s a top or bag, is still seen as a ‘staple’ to me.”
Catarina Mira-Rose, creative director
The London-based, Portuguese creative director Catarina Mira-Rose isn’t afraid to have a little fun with clothes and likes to play with color in a way that suits her personal style. Whether she’s wearing red from top to toe or a bright-pink tee with jeans, the result is always chic.
“My base wardrobe is relatively muted, which feels grounded and versatile, but I’ve started pairing it with bold shades to add a fun contrast. It’s a simple way to bring some energy and excitement into my everyday looks.
“Sometimes, I go all out with a monochrome outfit, dressing head to toe in the same color to make a bold statement. Other days, I keep things more muted and neutral, then add a pop of color with a standout piece such as shoes, a scarf, or a sweater. It’s a nice balance between subtle and striking, depending on my mood. As I get older, I find myself more open to being playful with my outfits, and color has become a fun way to express that.
“I’m still learning, but my top tip for adding a little color to your wardrobe is to start small. Try incorporating accessories such as scarves, socks, or bags. You could also experiment with layering – maybe let a splash of color peek out from under the collar of a blazer. It’s a subtle way to bring some vibrancy to your outfits without feeling overwhelming.”
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