Trends Report: Neutral Territory

This season subtlety reigns supreme with a dominant color palette of tans, grays, crèmes and khakis. But before you dismiss this palette as being a little too dull, remember that neutral colors are complementary to all – use them to maximize your wardrobe options to enjoy effortless style. Timeless and classic, neutrals are easily integrated into your personal color palette. Don’t know what yours is? Log in to http://www.alwaysinstyle.com/ and complete your Color Profile to find out. Used as a base, neutrals can temper this season’s popular bright acid-tone shades. They also blend seamlessly with softer pastels to make them a little less sweet, and give more muted shades a crisp look. Mix up neutrals with popular ikat or graphic prints to stand apart from the pack. Earthy tones reflect the new eco-friendly mindset, and show up in a variety of fabrics and textures that add new twists to old favorites. For a down-to-earth yet sophisticated look, think natural fiber – organic cotton jumpers or accessories. Go modern or classic, dressed up or dressed down – either way natural shades are undeniably fresh this season in hip styles far from the boxy basics of yesteryear. The neutral palette has also crossed over to the beauty counter with minimalist looks that create a deceptively naked look with just a dab of soft gloss and a swirl of smoky shadow for a bit of seductive drama. One of the best things about the neutral trend is that stores will burst at their seams with silhouettes to choose from. Use this bountiful time and invest in wardrobe pieces that will remain perennially chic. Cotton Twill Short Trench Coat Ann Taylor Miss Sixty Laila Wedge Zappos D&G Stretch Cotton Mini Dress eLuxury Acid Washed Vest DKNY Lauren Ralph Lauren Isabel Full-Length Stretch Pant Macys Parameter Wool Blend Cuffed Shorts Blue Fly