Even if you’re still bundled up in cozy winter gear, spring’s warm weather is just around the corner. It’s time to let brighter colors carry you through the new season.
The editors at DailyCandy.com have chosen three bold color palettes that are popping up everywhere -- and are easy to incorporate into your everyday wardrobe without breaking the bank.
Tangerine
When Pantone declared tangerine the It color of the season, we knew we’d see it everywhere. The color complements all skin tones, but you don’t want to dress in this bright hue from head to toe. Instead, start with a neutral base and add layers of tangerine from there.
Try white skinny jeans from Levi’s. (If slim pants aren’t your style, any neutral bottoms will do.) Pair the pants with a tangerine top that pulls double duty as a layering piece, like a lightweight striped sweater from Ann Taylor.
If seeking a more playful look while wearing tangerine, opt for a solid shoulder pleated tangerine top paired with an asymmetrical chiffon skirt, such as these options from Zara. (White Skinny Levi’s $49; Striped Button Tab Sweater $78.00, Ann Taylor; Tangerine Pique Blouse with Pleats on Shoulder $45.00, Zara; Asymmetrical Chiffon Skirt $49.90, Zara).
Not quite ready to take the plunge? Pile on the color with multiple accessories. Try belts, whimsical necklaces, sunglasses, and strappy watches. Charms, like a feather from Anthropologie, can be clipped onto a simple clutch to add a feminine touch. The hue is even showing up in hats and shoes -- ideal for a sunny day spent shopping. (Neon Peach Thin Leather Belt $37, J.Crew; Statement Necklace BaubleBar $48, Bauble Bar; Thread-Wrapped Sentiment Necklace $48, Anthropologie; Serpent Trail Belt $79.95, Anthropologie; La Mer Neon Wrap Watch $98.00, Urban Outfitters; The Collectors Charm Orange Feather $15.00, Anthropologie; Daytime Clutch Bag $49.90, Zara; Spotlight Sunglasses $16, Urban Outfitters; Mint by Goorin Striped Sun Hat $29.00, Urban Outfitters; Cooperative Canvas Tassel Loafer $59.00, Urban Outfitters.
For the most subtle pop, look no further than your fingertips. OPI’s nail colors, like the deep orange A Roll in the Hague, are unique, durable, and less toxic than other brands. (A Roll in the Hague by OPI $8.50)
Cobalt blue
Another bold color we spotted during Fashion Week -- and now see on the racks -- is cobalt blue. Like tangerine, beware of dressing in the shade from head to toe; the idea is to look vibrant, not monochrome.
Colored jeans, like these skinnies from Express, are a good starting point. Sure, they’re bright, but think of them as a punched-up version of your favorite denim. Pair the pants with classic stripes, like a color-blocked boatneck from J.Crew. Meanwhile, a pretty indigo sundress, like the Button Mini Dress by Tinley Road, will never give you the blues. (Zelda Jean Legging $79.90, Express; Color-block Stripe Boatneck Tee in Navy Kiwi $45.00, J.Crew; Button Mini Dress by Tinley Road $59.00, Piperlime)
As for accessories, carry an of-the-moment slouchy clutch or slide on an oversize cocktail ring that’s at once elegant and modern. Glamorous sunglasses in an unexpected color are always chic, and a multicolored bracelet adds tribal flair to any ensemble. Since no outfit is complete without a belt, pull everything together with a skinny patent cincher. (Large Leather Carryall Pouch in Cobalt $56.00, American Apparel; Glass Cocktal Ring $42.00, A + R Global Design; Spitfire Lola Sunglasses $39.00, Urban Outfitters; Skys Skinny Patent Bright Belt $24.00, Topshop).
Lastly, don’t forget your beauty routine. Swipe a coat of The Limit by OPI, a nice cobalt blue shade, on nails, or revive back-in-the-day blue mascara with a more sophisticated indigo that doesn’t scream 1980s. (The Limit by OPI $9, Target; Coloured Mascara In Blast $16.00, Topshop).
Nudes and pastels
Subtle is always chic -- and mixing nudes and pastels is an effortless way to go from day to night. Here are two ways to wear the season’s understated colors.
A neutral shift like this option from Urban Renewal can be worn with a pastel jacket over leggings or belted as a dress. Pair this look with any color accessories that fit your mood. (Tip: If you’re worried about looking washed-out, pile on a colorful statement necklace.) Bright yellow sandals add sunny style (and a little lift) to the simple frock. (Urban Renewal Smocked Waist Crepe Dress $59.00, Urban Outfitters; Cuffed Jacket in Peach Bud $29.80, Forever 21; High Heel Sandal with Buckles in color natural $89.90, Zara).
Come evening, wearing pastels from head to toe is more glamorous than basic black. Try a solid pastel chiffon blouse in sea foam along with pale pink jeans like these from Zara for a chic look. Minimal accessories (a sparkly stud, a cocktail ring) are all you need for a night on the town; sturdy flats add an edge and ensure the look isn’t too girly. (Blouse With Knot Collar $89.90, Zara; Zara Deinimwear Collection $79.90, Zara; Zara Basic Belt $9.90, Zara; Pastel Skimmer $98, Madewell.com).
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