Brighten your winter wardrobe: Tips for adding colour

While we might still be experiencing a few sunny days, winter is slowly but surely creeping up on us. 

Many of us are already starting to organise our wardrobes in preparation for the cooler months ahead. 

Winter fashion often leans towards dark, neutral tones like black, grey, and navy.

This, however, doesn’t mean that you have to stay clear of more vibrant hues.

Adding colour to your winter wardrobe can uplift your mood, make your outfits more dynamic, and help you stand out in a sea of monotone layers. 

If you're looking to brighten up your cold-weather style, here’s how to incorporate colour seamlessly.

Start with accessories

If you're hesitant about bold hues, begin with small pops of colour through accessories:

• Scarves and gloves: A bright red, emerald green, or mustard yellow scarf can instantly liven up a neutral coat.
• Hats and beanies: A deep burgundy or cobalt blue beanie adds warmth and vibrancy.
• Bags and shoes: A statement handbag or colourful boots can elevate an otherwise muted outfit.

Layer with colourful knits

Swap out your usual grey or black sweaters for ones in rich, winter-appropriate shades like:

• Jewel tones: Ruby red, sapphire blue, or amethyst purple look luxurious and seasonal.
• Earth tones: Rust, olive green, and mustard add warmth without being too loud.
• Pastels: Soft pink, lavender, or mint can provide a fresh contrast to darker layers.

Experiment with outerwear

A colourful coat or jacket makes a bold statement while keeping you warm:

• Classic red or camel: Timeless yet vibrant.
• Puffer jackets in bright hues: Electric blue, fuchsia, or even lime green for a sporty look.
• Plaid or patterned coats: Incorporate multiple colours in a stylish, winter-ready print.

Play with textured fabrics

Winter fabrics like wool, corduroy, and velvet come in rich colours that feel cosy and elegant:

• A deep-green velvet blazer adds luxe colour to office wear.
• Corduroy pants in burnt orange pair well with neutrals.

Mix neutrals with bold shades

Balance bright pieces with classic winter staples:

• Pair a vibrant sweater with black trousers or a charcoal skirt.
• Style a colourful skirt with a cream turtleneck and tights.

Try monochrome colour blocking

Wearing different shades of one colour (e.g., head-to-toe burgundy or navy) keeps the look cohesive while still making an impact.

Don’t forget prints and patterns

Florals, stripes, and geometric prints can introduce multiple colours subtly:

• A fairisle knit blends reds, greens, and creams beautifully.
• A plaid scarf with hints of yellow or blue adds interest.

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IOL Lifestyle