Hello Fall – Make The Transition With Simple Shifts To Your Palette

By Brian Maynor

 

Obviously Mother Nature didn’t get the memo that summer should be coming to a close.  How are we supposed to pack away last season’s wears and move into fall when it’s still as hot and humid as ever?  The easiest way to make the switch is to change the colors, not the types, of clothes you’re wearing.

Remember a few months ago there was a lot of buzz about this season’s new ‘it’ color radiant orchid?  Well in case you forgot, here are the major palette trends for Fall/Winter 2014 from color icon Pantone to refresh your memory:

 

 

1.   Radiant Orchid.  Along with being one of the most talked about colors, Radiant Orchid is also one of the season’s statement colors.  This bold, charismatic color works great as an accent or dominant color in your wardrobe.  Guys it may be intimidating to embrace this shade of purple, but at least give it a try.

2.   Mauve Mist and Sea Fog.  These lighter shades of purple have names that evoke ethereal sentimentalities of decades past, and where Mauve Mist is romantic, elegant and feminine, the male version, Sea Fog, is masculine and warmer but just as chic.

3.   Sangria.  An invigorating color that is both exotic and sophisticated, Sangria gives your winter palette a vibrant pop of color.  You could find yourself intoxicated by this color, just like the drink.

4.   Aurora Red.  Aurora Red is a bit more sophisticated and brighter than Sangria, but just as bold.  So a little of this color will go a long way in your outfit and accessories.  If red isn’t one of your favorite colors because it’s just too flat, this is a great alternative.

5.   Misted Yellow.  Like a ray of sunlight, Misted Yellow adds warmth and assurance to the winter palette.  Found prominently featured in prints, it also pairs beautifully on its own with other colors or neutrals.  Surprisingly versatile, this may become one of your favorite ‘go-to’ colors.

6.   Bright Cobalt.  The trend of bold blues continues with Bright Cobalt and Royal Blue.  Working the same as traditional blues, bright cobalt provides a subtle shift that will catch attention without raising eyebrows.  A great partner to Sangria and Cypress, this is another statement color of the season.

7.   Royal Blue.  Dignified and classy, Royal Blue makes the perfect substitute to Navy.  With it’s crisp, clean and trustworthy qualities expect to see this color dominating formalwear and outerwear.  You can also create a futuristic combo by pairing it with Aluminum and Mauve Mist or Sea Fog.

8.   Cognac.  Confident and sophisticated Cognac grounds this palette.  It also adds some much needed glamour to basic brown.  This color will immediately elevate your outfit so give it a try at your next evening or social function.

9.   Cypress.  The counterpoint to Sangria and Aurora Red, Cypress is a deep, warm green that evokes power and stability.  A standout in the palette, this color is a noticeable as the tree it’s name after.

10.   Aluminum.  All neutrals are not created equal.  Aluminum is a futurist, high-tech and complex color that works perfectly when you want to give basics like black, white and grey a break.  Reminiscent of silver, Aluminum is deeper and warmer giving an unexpected depth to metallics.

 

 

Though it’s still too early to pull out seasonal fabrics like wool, tweed and cashmere, now is the perfect time to try these new seasonal colors.  Snapping them up in transitional pieces like short-sleeve tops and skirts will give your current wardrobe an infusion of Fall.

 

Click here or on the images below to learn more about the outfit.

 

 

 

Click here or on the images below to learn more about the outfit.

 

 

 

 

 

I am always curious to hear from you and what you see in the workplace.  Send your questions, comments and pet peeves to [email protected].  Also find each of these storyboards at http://brianmaynor.polyvore.com with links to purchase each item.

 

 

About Brian Maynor

Brian Maynor has built a reputation as one of the leading style coaches in the Southeast and is quickly expanding his eponymous company, BRIAN MAYNOR and his FIND, FLATTER & FLAUNT line of image consulting services. A professional with a fresh, upbeat and down-to-earth personality and boundless creative energy, he works frequently with with local celebrities; Fortune 500 companies and nonprofit organizations; modeling agencies; fashion designers; production companies; record labels; media and individuals. A regular contributor to various fashion blogs and online communities, Brian Maynor is one of the most trusted and recognized style experts in the region, utilizing his education and training as a broadcast journalist to serve as a style lecturer, emcee, and commentator for over a decade. He has appeared at fashion shows, expos, and charity fundraisers, as well as events with big brands like Banana Republic, Ann Taylor, Chico’s and Macy’s. His approach is innovative, creative and fashion-forward, balancing fresh, modern styles with classic pieces to keep one’s look grounded. To learn more, visit http://www.brianmaynor.com.