Did you know that nothing rhymes with Orange?

Orange is one of those colors that universally most people feel that they cant wear. But this is not true. While we may not all be able to get away with the orange of childhood, the spectrum that exists within orange is beautiful. From pale melons to infused burnt oranges, the options are endless. Orange is a happy color that lifts spirits and can be very comforting all the while energizing. When using orange, though, most relegate it to the background for accents, and while it works well here, it can also do wonders when allowed to take center stage. But because most shades of orange are only a shade away from garish, it does benefit one to take your time with choosing the color and placement of the color so as not to become lost in it.

I was perusing online and came across these darling studs by Betsey Johnson and I actually grinned at the computer screen. While Monica may find them scary, these are a pair of studs that can lighten the mood all the while remaining understated, simply because they are studs. A way to not take yourself too seriously. Part of this is accomplished by the color in and of itself. The shiny orange laquer is unexpected but simultaneously appreciated. Maybe not appropo for every situation, certainly not for an interview or black tie dinner, but every other in between.

For me, fashion and color is about expressing yourself, having fun and not taking yourself too seriously. Everything you wear should look polished and on purpose yet not severe. Knowing who you are and exhibiting that through dress should never be a problem...though I do draw the line at a flaxseed mumu.

One of the best neutrals ever...

Per Adrienne's request, this week we are going to talk about one of the best neutral's ever. Navy. Navy is such a stately color. Its saturated, refined and stands out or blends into the background beautifully. Often used in sailor themes, it is beautifully accented by any color, though when it comes to aquatic themes, it's most often paired with red and gold. And preferably with stripes. But I digress, when it comes to neutrals, the goal is to have a color that will go with most everything else, in some way, shape or fashion. Neutrals are like basics. They mix and match and form a cohesive look, relatively easily. There is a reason why a lot of people default to black, and sometimes grey. It goes with everything, but when you are looking to spice it up and add some visual interest, try the simplicity of navy. Because navy is such a dark color is is great when worn as a bottom (ie. pants or skirt) because you can mix just about any color from your wardrobe and not have to think too hard about it. When used as a completer piece (ie. cardigan or blazer) it polishes your look in a way that makes it look like you got 'dressed on purpose.'

But dont send navy to the neutral zone to die. When done is fabulous textures and styles, navy can also make a statement. Take for instance this BCBGMAXAZRIA strapless dress. The varied textures and subtle inflections of color make this dress standout even though it is done in navy. Navy has an innate refined quality to it that says, "I'm cool, calm and collected." Navy gives the impression that one is in control of themselves and isn't afraid to be just a little bit different. Everything we wear speaks to how we feel about ourselves and what we are trying to say to the world, even if inadvertently. Black says this is my routine, my whole closet matches itself. Navy says this is my way of life, I did this on purpose. What are you saying to the world today?

Green Day...it's not just a band anymore...

I was talking to a friend of mine last night and she was giving me the details of how she had inspired "Green Day" in her Master's Program. She is a recent transplant to the Bay Area and said that people there dont wear color. Just black and grey. She and I come from the same world, where color and pattern are necessities in life and there is no reason to be bland. She said, "They look at me in my sparkly shoes like I look crazy but they're wearing a flaxseed mumu. Honey, I'm not the one that looks crazy." She said she was talking to her study group and suggested that they all wear green on Tuesday. "Well that spread like wild-fire and I get to class and EVERYONE is wearing green! It was great! Next week we're wearing purple." It was after talking to her that I remembered that it was because of her that I fell in love with jeweltones. My favorite of which is Emerald Green.

Emerald Green is one of those colors that to me is universally flattering. I have yet to see it on someone where the color is not complimentary. Because the tone of the color is relatively dark, it is most often reserved for colder times of the year and formal occasions. Personally, I think that the color translates through seasons and should not be relagated to only formal occasions. A lot of us also wear it as accessory pieces. A great statement bag or a piece of chunky jewelry that will make someone else stop in their tracks to find out where you go it. It works with most color schemes but also stands well alone. I have been looking for the perfect green tote sized purse for a while now and have yet to find THE one. I will one day. There is one from the  Cambridge Satchel Company that is trimmed in navy that I love, but it is more of a work bag than a purse, but hope is not yet lost. I will one day....have my very own Green Day.