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Have you noticed neutral colors are becoming a staple this summer?  But what is a neutral look anyway?

A neutral look is an outfit where neutral colors are predominant. Initially, neutral colors were defined as basic colors like white, black, and gray. In the fashion world, neutrals also include “in-between” colors such as off-white shades like beige, cream, ivory as well as the so-called “earth tones” which include warmer hues like many shades of browns, and cooler shades such as navy blues and sage greens. In short, colors you would find primarily in nature, hence “earth” in their name.

There is an ongoing trend lately where neutrals are taking a center stage in the fashion industry. This trend got started last season and has no signs of slowing down.

Neutrals have become the “It” color and a must-have item in any fashionista closet. They’re also great for a capsule wardrobe if you’re a minimalist. I, myself, invested in several pieces recently.

Neutrals are great colors. Not only because they’re practical but also they never go out of style. Neutrals are like a blank canvas that you can use to build your entire outfit from, and because they are so easy on the eyes, they transmit a sense of calm and peace by the person who’s wearing them. But you must be asking yourself, how do I style neutral look?

One of the things I like most about neutrals is that they are easy to wear. Because they don’t require much thought or effort from your part and they can make you look put together effortlessly in no time. However, if you’re looking for inspiration, I have a few style ideas that can help you get creative with it.

There are several ways you can wear neutrals and style them differently. Here are a few ideas that will help you get started on a fabulous look for any occasion:

 

1. SOPHISTICATED LOOK

For a sophisticated look, you can mix and match off-white tones. Choose different shades of the same color or just one color for an all monochrome look.

White and ivory and/or beige with cream are great choices for an all-neutral ensemble.  If you’re going for a monochromatic vibe, it will give your outfit a sophisticated touch and it works great for an office look as well.

Shop the look, here

2. POP OF COLOR

 

You can choose to turn the volume up or down on a monochromatic look just by adding some color to it. Picking one or two accessories (bag, shoes, or a piece of jewelry) is the way to go.

Bright warm colors such as yellows and reds look great for summer, or you can go for basics such as grays, blacks.  To turn the volume down choose cooler tones such as olive greens and navy blues.

Usually, one item is enough to give a pop of color, but if you want to do more, like a shoe and a bag, or a bag and a piece of jewelry, make sure the colors complement each other.

Shop the first look, here

Shop the second look, here

3. EARTH TONES

The same way you would add warmer colors to an all monochromatic look, you can mix and match with earth tones as well. Try overlay with some shades of browns, lighter shades of blues and olive greens.

Shop the first look, here

Shop the second look here

 

4. ADD TEXTURE

 

Adding texture is another great way to mix and match without using color. Pick some accent pieces with statement materials such as crochet, linen, knits, straw or even patterns and pair them with softer materials such as cotton, crepe, polyester or silk.

Shop the look, here

 

5. ADD STRUCTURE

Still playing with optical illusion, aside from different kinds of fabric, you can try to add structured pieces.

Structured pieces are a great way to accentuate your best features (or give the illusion of having one).  Whether it’s paper bag pants and shorts to create height and accentuate the waistline, or puff sleeves and wrap tops to broaden your shoulders.

Be creative with them and take full advantage of asymmetrical cuts, pleats, ruffles, belts, knots, or statement sleeves to create your perfect neutral look.

Shop first look, here

Shop second look, here

Shop third look, here

There you have it. Five different ways you can style a neutral look from work to casual. Who said neutral colors have to be boring?

Xoxo