Adding colour to your wardrobe can feel intimidating, especially if you’ve always worn more neutral colours (or maybe even all black!).
However, incorporating some brighter hues is a fantastic way to express your personality and boost your confidence, even if it does feel a bit wild at first. If you’re not sure how to start incorporating a bit more colour into your day-to-day fashion choices, or you find it a bit scary to do so, here’s how to step out of your comfort zone and make your life a bit more vivid.
1. Start with small pops of colour.
If you’re hesitant about wearing bright colours, begin with small accents. Accessories like scarves, belts, or shoes are a great way to introduce colour without feeling overwhelmed. These touches can instantly lift a neutral outfit. For example, pair a black dress with red shoes or add a colourful handbag to a grey suit. These small steps allow you to experiment with colour while keeping the rest of your look understated, making it easier to build confidence.
2. Discover which colours suit your skin tone.
Knowing which colours complement your complexion can make choosing colourful clothes much easier. Warm skin tones tend to look great in earthy shades like olive, mustard, or terracotta, while cool tones shine in blues, purples, and jewel tones. Experiment with different colours near your face to see what makes your skin glow. If you’re unsure, start with universally flattering colours like teal, burgundy, or emerald green, which suit most people beautifully.
3. Use the colour wheel for inspiration.
The colour wheel is a helpful tool for creating harmonious outfits. Complementary colours, like blue and orange, or analogous colours, like yellow and green, can add visual interest to your wardrobe without clashing. Try pairing colours that sit opposite or next to each other on the wheel to create balanced, eye-catching looks. Understanding these basics helps you mix colours confidently while avoiding mismatched outfits.
4. Experiment with monochrome looks.
Dressing in one colour from head to toe can be surprisingly chic and easy to pull off. Monochrome outfits in bold shades like red or cobalt blue create a striking, confident look without requiring complicated styling. To add depth to a monochrome outfit, mix textures or different shades of the same colour. For instance, a navy knit jumper paired with lighter blue trousers adds interest while staying cohesive. Monochrome dressing simplifies adding colour while making a statement.
5. Balance bold colours with neutrals.
If bright colours feel too daring, pair them with neutral tones like black, white, grey, or beige. Neutrals help ground bold colours and create a polished, balanced look that’s easy to wear in any setting. For example, try a vibrant green blouse with beige trousers or a yellow skirt with a white top. The contrast allows the colour to pop while keeping the overall outfit refined and approachable.
6. Incorporate patterns and prints.
Patterns and prints are an easy way to introduce colour into your wardrobe. Florals, stripes, or abstract designs can add visual interest and help you get comfortable mixing colours without committing to solid bold pieces. Start with a printed scarf or blouse and pair it with neutral basics. As you grow more confident, experiment with bolder prints like geometric designs or animal prints that incorporate multiple colours for a playful, stylish look.
7. Invest in versatile colourful staples.
Pieces like a tailored blazer, a midi dress, or a pair of trousers in a bold colour can be surprisingly versatile. These staples can be dressed up or down, and easily paired with neutral items for a balanced look. For instance, a bright red blazer can elevate a pair of jeans for a casual outing or complement tailored trousers for a professional setting. Investing in well-made colourful staples gives you flexibility and ensures you’ll wear them often.
8. Pay attention to proportions.
When incorporating colour, consider how much of it you want to feature in your outfit. Bold colours work well as statement pieces, while subtler shades can be used in larger amounts for a more cohesive look. If you’re new to colour, start with one bold item like a colourful skirt, then balance it with neutral pieces. As you grow more confident, experiment with outfits where colour takes centre stage, such as a brightly coloured dress or a coordinated set.
9. Embrace seasonal colours.
Let the seasons guide your colour choices. Pastels like lavender and mint are perfect for spring, while rich tones like burgundy, mustard, and forest green feel cosy in autumn. Dressing seasonally keeps your wardrobe feeling fresh and relevant. Try incorporating seasonal colours in accessories, like a pastel scarf in spring or a rust-coloured hat in autumn. These additions help you stay on trend while experimenting with a variety of shades throughout the year.
10. Step out of your comfort zone gradually.
Building confidence with colour takes time, so don’t feel pressured to transform your wardrobe overnight. Start with shades you already love and feel comfortable wearing, then gradually branch out to more adventurous hues. For example, if you’re used to wearing navy, try adding teal or royal blue. Small steps help you grow accustomed to colour, and before you know it, you’ll feel ready to experiment with bolder choices like orange or fuchsia.
11. Use accessories as a gateway to colour.
Accessories are one of the easiest ways to experiment with colour without committing to an entire outfit. Bright jewellery, bold handbags, or even a colourful pair of socks can inject personality into your look without overwhelming it. Mix and match accessories to see what works with your existing wardrobe. A colourful scarf or statement necklace can completely change the vibe of an outfit, allowing you to experiment and have fun with colour in a low-pressure way.
12. Layer colours for depth and dimension.
Layering is a great way to play with multiple colours while keeping your outfit balanced. A colourful top under a neutral jacket or a bright cardigan over a muted dress adds dimension and makes your look more visually appealing. When layering, try mixing complementary or analogous colours for a harmonious effect. For example, layer a mustard jumper over a navy shirt, or pair a soft pink scarf with a grey coat. Layering lets you experiment with colour combinations while keeping your look cohesive.
13. Make it personal and have fun.
At the end of the day, your wardrobe should reflect your personality and make you feel good. Don’t be afraid to experiment and break the “rules” if it helps you express yourself. Confidence often comes from wearing what feels true to you. Use colour as a way to brighten your mood or inject energy into your day. Whether it’s a bold red coat or a soft pastel blouse, choose colours that resonate with you. The most important thing is to enjoy the process and wear your choices with pride.
