Wearing Clashing Colors

Life is ironic.  And I really mean this in every sense of the word.

I was in the train this morning and I was thinking of several topics to write on my blog.  One of them was how to wear colors and still look elegant - not like someone who came out of the 80s.  Well, I didn't actually have to wait long or go through my memory bank to give an example.  When I came back from work, I saw this girl in the train, the full 9-yards: sky blue dress with white prints, bright yellow cardigan, shocking pink hobo bag, bright blue eyeshadow.  I almost cried.  Why, oh, why did she do that to herself.

Well, you can still wear clashing colors, but you just have to know how to do this tastefully.

1. Wear the Colors in Large Chunks
For example, wear a pink top and red skirt, but pull it together with a black or brown clutch and shoes.  This will calm down the color, instead of making your whole look out of control.  The key is to control the color, instead of having the color run you over.  Also don't wear pastel with pastels.  It will wash you out.


2. Don't Overload the Colors
Choose 2 or 3 clashing colors, but don't choose so many that you look like a clown.  Seriously.

3. Make-Up, not Cover-Up
You don't have to match your make up with what you wear.  Blue eyeshadow with a blue dress can look really tacky.  If your outfit is already screaming "look at me", you don't want your face to be doing the same thing.  Opt for a more neutral or pale look, accenting either eyes or lips (but not both).

4. Keep the Jewelry Simple
Pick chunky bracelets or one fat ring, rather than thin stack bracelets.  The chunky jewelry will help bring the look together.

5. Look at Yourself in the Mirror
If you only see half of yourself, it means the colors don't "gel".  Try different color combinations, or try to mute it down with black or brown.