5 Ways To Wear Red
Whether you opt for lipstick-red or a tonal burgundy – or one of the myriad cherry tones in between – there’s no denying FW23’s most covetable color… But how best to wear it?
With each new season comes a must-wear shade that encapsulates the mood of the moment – and for FW23, designers proposed one that’s bold, bright and beautiful. Enter the era of lipstick-red (and its allies). This fiery, confident shade bled across the new-season runways, from Fendi to Valentino Garavani and Gucci, in a vivacious jolt to the senses. There’s a reason traffic ‘Stop’ signs are red: this statement-making color commands attention.
Symbolizing everything from passion and love to danger, the color red taps into our visceral emotions and acts as a palate-cleanser from the sea of tonal beiges and muted tones that typically dominate the FW runways. A long-time staple on the eveningwear circuit, red is proposed for daytime this season, too, where it’s historically been overlooked. So here are five fabulous ways to incorporate this power palette into your everyday look…
Head-to-toe red
It can be difficult to decipher which other tones complement this standout color, so why bother? Instead, leave a lasting impression by pairing red with more red. Suzie Kondi’s snuggly crew-neck sweater is perfect paired with Gucci’s pleated skirt – the oversized fit of the knit brings a more relaxed feel to the polished, preppy midi. Sturdy loafers from Saint Laurent dial up the preppy look, while a polished black bag from Loewe and statement sunglasses add just the right amount of contrast.
Break it up with black
Spirited and sensual, red and black are an ideal pairing that taps into the sophisticated-siren mood. Case in point: &Daughter’s ‘Ada’ cardigan, a product that is locally made and thus forms part of our NET SUSTAIN edit of consciously crafted clothes, which comes in a vibrant shade of poppy red. Toughen it up with a black leather skirt by Citizens of Humanity, and add Malone Souliers’ red velvet mules, a NET-A-PORTER exclusive, for a festive feel. Saint Laurent’s slick shoulder bag and gold-tone jewelry will add extra edge.
The little red dress
Forget the LBD, or even the LWD – this season, it’s all about the LRD. Cool and contemporary, the LRD does all the talking. Ganni’s pretty off-the-shoulder mini with spahetti straps and A-line skirt is the perfect party-season piece and is sure to become a dance-floor favorite; it’s an ideal choice for a big-event dinner party, too. Add an air of intrigue with Paris Texas’ slouchy leather boots and silver-toned jewelry.
The color clash
Red’s sartorial dominance can make it a tricky hue to temper. But rather than opting for classic dark tones, which can amp up red’s bold brightness, look further down the red color spectrum. Burgundy’s rich depth will pair perfectly with vivacious shades – and Saint Laurent’s oversized vinyl trench brings a sophisticated feel that will turn red into a pop of interest, rather than a focal point. Layer it over The Elder Statesman’s cashmere turtleneck and Burberry’s checked wool pants, and add Bottega Veneta’s intrecciato leather tote for further refinement.
The accessories
Use shoes, boots and bags as a seamless way to incorporate color trends into everyday wardrobes without committing to a whole look. Versatile and playful, after-dark handbags from Alexander McQueen and Bottega Veneta will also refresh daytime trench coats, while Manolo Blahnik’s ‘Corintia’ bow-embellished slingback pumps will put a sashay in your step. Meanwhile, Agnelle’s red leather ‘Kate’ gloves are the perfect way to bring brightness to cold-weather dressing, and look particularly perfect with an oversized charcoal-gray coat and vinyl black boots.
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