The “it” colors of the season are unmistakenly grey and army green. But the bright hues of fall — magenta, plum, bright blue and kelly green — are also back in a big way. The bright colors took on an eighties vibe for spring, and thank God it didn’t last, because the current color palette includes fun, happy colors that remind me of finger painting on my Kindergarten easel. Below are the top color trends for fall, from Instyle.com. I add my two-cents and offer suggestions on how you can incorporate these color trends into your everyday wardrobe.
InStyle Says: Bright cobalt blue was a runway favorite, and, as seen at Burberry Prorsum and on Kerry Washington, it really pops when paired with basic black.
Erin’s Tip: Blue is always a flattering shade, no matter your skin tone age or lifestyle. This season’s cobalt blue is seen on peacoats, dresses and accessories. And keep your classics: Navy is still a terrific neutral shade. Add some funk to your style by pairing your bright blues with steely greys and graphic black & white prints. Blue really pops against black, especially patent leather accesories. If you have a bold blue shirt or jacket, neutralize your outfit with black mary janes, grey skinny jeans or neutral accessories. And if you want to add some pizzazz to your already basic ensemble, make it pop with cobalt blue heels or a fun clutch for evening.
Above: Actress Kerry Washington and a Burberry Prorsum runway look; Claire Necklace from Stella & Dot, $49; Bullhead Super Skinny Jeans fromPacSun, $45; Candies Yunnis Peep-Toe Platform Heel from Kohls, $55.
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InStyle Says: Glittering gold is the it metallic this fall, but skintight styles like Jennifer Lopez‘s are better left to a Saturday night cocktail party. Michael Kors created a slightly more subtle version, suitable for a 9AM business meeting. The best part of this trend? No jewelry required!
Erin’s Tip: Gold is an increasingly popular metallic. And it’s surprisingly neutral when worn in subtle ways. Pile on the gold jewels for an instant update — popular jewelry trends for fall include braided chains and beads for a rocker girl vibe, and delicate pieces with rhinestones and pearls to achieve the coveted “vintage glam” style that’s so hot this season. If you aren’t a gold person, start out small and try a sparkly brooch or fun gold ring. And if you want to go all-out glam like J. Lo., above, then throw on a fabulous gold dress with one fun accessory (see the gold link bracelet she’s wearing in the pic).
Above: Jennifer Lopez and a Michael Kors runway look; Soiree Pave Ball Earrings from Stella & Dot, $39; Belle Fleur Ring in Gold from Stella & Dot, $49; ABS by Allen Schwartz Gold Metallic Dress from Bluefly, $228.
InStyle Says: Purple can be positively regal, but it’s also a perfectly pretty color for a party, as America Ferrera (in Brian Reyes) is aware. Phillip Lim‘s asymmetrical sequined dress makes an even bolder statement; take a cue from these two looks and ground your ensemble with simple black accessories.
Erin’s Tip: I love this color because, 1.) it’s my favorite hue of all time and 2.) it works on everyone. Purple goes well with any skin tone, hair color and eye color and anyone can wear it, whether you’re 16 or 60 years old. A purple dress like America’s, above, is a real show stopper, but if you want something more subtle, try a purple suede pump or even violet nail polish. Berry-hued accessories add a posh statement to a plum blouse during early fall months and can add some glamour to a corduroy jacket for when the weather begins to get colder.
Above: Actress America Ferrera and a Philip Lim runway look; Nine West Easycool Heels from Zappos, $90; Chloe Necklace from Stella & Dot, $49; Silk Tie Racerback Top from Banana Republic, $70.
Instyle Says: Classic camel goes way beyond coats this season. Try the shade in a demure slipdress, like Ashley Greene or in monochromatic separates, as seen at Chloe. (Add a skinny belt in a contrasting color if you want to break it up.)
Erin’s Tips: This color can be intimidating to wear. Afterall, your lunch could leave a beautiful mark on your beige slacks or a head-to-toe ensemble may leave you looking sallow. Pair fun jewelry with your camel-colored look to add some dimension and shine. And be sure to increase the cosmetic application — a full face is needed, especially when you wear camel near your face. Stick with pretty neutral colors, such as pinks and bronzes and you’ll look radiant and glowing. And don’t forget the essential every woman should have: nude, leg-lengthening heels.
Above: Actress Ashley Greene and beautiful Chloe runway look; Charlotte Charm Necklace from Stella & Dot, $49; French Connection January Platform Heel from Asos, $168; Satin Cowl Neck Blouse from Ann Taylor, $78.
InStyle Says: Sheer black can be suggestive without being salacious, as evidenced by Zoe Saldana‘s lacy number. Netting and mesh, as seen at Stella McCartney are sexiest when they still leave something to the imagination.
Erin’s Tip: I like this trend when worn all black, from head to toe. A sheer black, ong sleeved blouse looks gorgeous over a pretty black lace bra and a pencil skirt for evening. Also popular are the sheer lace tanks — pair it with black shorts and patent pumps for a fun “night on the town” vibe. Or go a little more rocker chic with slashed skinny jeans and a lace-y top. This look is best for evening (unless your office doesn’t mind some serious skin), so have fun with it and add a subtle pop of color when you can, like Zoe’s fabulous red lips, above.
Above: Avatare star Zoe Saldana and a Stella McCartney runway look; Madewell Dana Lace Yoke Top from ShopBop, $95; Lace Inset Tunic from Arden B, $60; Lace Yoke Embellished Tank from Express, $40.
InStyle Says: A variety of jewel tones are in for Fall, but it’s deep emerald green that best says ladylike-chic. To wear this trend, play with a variety of textures, like Oscar de la Renta did, or opt for a prim dress in an equally demure fabric like Kristin Davis.
Erin’s Tips: Another favorite color of mine, green is an amazing color for fall. Just be sure you don’t wear it head-to-toe, unless you want your style skills to seem, um, green. A green sweater is classic in a cashmere wool blend and hints of green in jewelry or in a tweed fabric looks beautiful. If you want to go full-throttle with a green dress, try one in silk or wool. Taffeta or too many ruffles are reminiscent of your Christmas photo from 1990. And a pretty emerald, jade or forest green is a wonderful alternative for your toenails this season.
Above: Kristin Davis and an Oscar de la Renta runway look; LaCoco Rosary Bead Necklace from Stella & Dot, $44; Saveena Flower Ring from Stella & Dot, $49; Diesel Women’s Miniskirt from Yoox.com, $123.
InStyle Says: Fiery in nature, red is a standout color—and should be worn when you want to be noticed, like Penelope Cruz. But what we love is the idea of a bold red statement pant, like Maison Martin Margiela elegantly executed, paired with softer reds or neutrals for a seriously stylish look.
Erin’s Tip: Red is always a power color and for good reason — it gets you noticed. Look for a well-fitted red pencil skirt this season and pair it with a printed, tie-neck blouse and retro peep-toe heels for a look that screams Joan Halloway. Red lips also go the distance, although be careful with the crimson lipstick in the office. Red nails are classic and red shoes, whether high heels, kitten heels or ballet flats, are always a “do.” When wearing all-out scarlet, like Penelope, above, only stick to neutral accessories and makeup — beige, camel or a slight metallic with a nude lip — or up to two black accessories — a black belt and patent pumps for example.
Above: Penelope Cruz and a Maison Martin Margiela runway look; Crepe Pencil Skirt from White House Black Market, $; Ladybug Stud Earrings from Stella & Dot, $24; Sm Heaven Patent Flat from DSW, $40.
The Style File: 