How To Wear Color: Escape The Grip Of Neutrals!

As a lover of color, here’s how I’d suggest shaking up your palette

POSTED 05.08.26 14:03 BY MAE AUCKLAND

I think if a friend had to describe my style, they’d most likely mention my love of color.

I’m a firm believer in the power that certain colors hold. They can influence our mood, change how we're perceived, help us stand out, or even help us blend in—and there’s nothing more satisfying than finding your signature shade.

However, I wasn’t always this way. Even I had an all-black phase, which was surprisingly hard to get out of despite only lasting a few months (as most of my phases tended to do). So, I wanted to share a few of my top tips for embracing color in your outfits and breaking free from the all-too-easy all-black or all-neutral look.

My first step would be to think about why you'd like to diversify your wardrobe palette. I find inspiration everywhere: Pinterest, TikTok, Instagram, movies, red carpets, and even people-watching. It’s great to have a vision of what you want, so think about the color, style, or shade that caught your attention—and go for it.

Baby steps

I’d start by jazzing up my accessories first. There’s no need to jump straight into a bright red power suit if you’re not ready (unless you are). Instead, try a colorful pair of shoes, a bag, a hat, or even some costume jewelry in a shade you love to wear with your usual neutral outfit.

Then I’d swap out one key piece. Wear either a colorful top with neutral bottoms or vice versa. A starting point for me when I was trying to get back into color was finding a piece I liked in black and simply buying it in another shade instead. I started with navy, burgundy, and dark green. That way, you're already familiar with the fit and fabric, making the transition feel much easier.

But which color to choose?

Don’t stress too much about color. I used to think I needed a color analysis expert or some sort of consultation to figure out which shades worked for me. In reality, I simply pick up the colors I’m naturally drawn to. You’re far more likely to feel comfortable and confident wearing a color you genuinely love than one that just happens to be trending.

Once you find an item that catches your eye, hold it up to your face. I usually ask myself a few simple questions: Does it make me look tired or washed out? (Immediate no.) Does it clash with my skin tone or hair? Does it bring out my features? And, most importantly, how does it make me feel? If the answers are positive, you really can't go wrong.

When I’m shopping, I naturally gravitate toward certain shades. Maybe it’s fate.

Once you’ve found the colors you feel amazing in, the rest becomes easy. Try building up to one signature statement piece, whether that’s a colorful suit, a bold dress, or even a patterned piece featuring your favorite shades. Then just keep building from there.

So, if you want to add more color to your wardrobe without ending up with awkward combinations, start small and branch out.

Here are some colorful Fizzypicks to brighten up an all-black outfit, along with a few standout pieces that might just convince you to leave your neutral tee in the closet.

Close-up of red ballet flats with an instep strap, gold buckle closure, and a round toe.

ZARA
Flat Leather Ballet Flats
$79.90

How To Wear Color: Escape The Grip Of Neutrals!

Baby steps

But which color to choose?

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