We all love black. It goes with everything. It makes us feel safe and happy. So it’s only sensible to buy most of our core investment pieces in it. But by late winter all that black can start to feel a bit flat, dull and boring. So how can you change it up? In this post I’m going to show you how to add winter warmth to black by bringing in beige, camel, brown, orange and soft lemon tones.
The versatility of black
Black is the epitome of versatility. Its timeless appeal lies in its ability to effortlessly transition from casual to formal settings, making it a wardrobe staple for any season, but especially for the winter months. Whether it’s a simple black polo neck paired with tailored trousers or a little black dress for a night out, black exudes sophistication and provides a perfect canvas for layering and accessorising.
So, how should you add layers and accessorise your black for winter? By using classic earthy tones to add in some winter warmth. Think classic beige, camel and brown or zingy orange and soft yellow.
Why beige, camel, brown, orange and lemon?
- Choosing a strong bright colour to lift black, for example red or hot pink, can look a bit harsh and unsubtle for everyday. It can work well for a dramatic evening look, but can be a bit too much for winter daylight hours.
- Beige, camel and brown are all warm colours but also core wardrobe neutrals in their own right. Investing in them will not only add winter warmth to your black outfits but also add greater versatility to your wardrobe as a whole.
- The right soft shade of orange or yellow can be really flattering to those of us over 60 who can be drained by strong colours. By experimenting to find the shade that suits you best you’ll lift your outfit and lift your mood.
- These soft earthy tones evoke a sense of comfort and relaxation, making them ideal for adding winter warmth to black and creating outfits that exude effortless style.
The rich and luxurious hues of black, beige, brown, camel, orange and soft lemon effortlessly capture the essence of winter. Black, with its sleek and sophisticated appeal, creates background and a sense of depth, to which the other tones add a warm, cozy and comforting layer. Together, they form a harmonious balance that complements the winter season.
So let’s look at how you might add and layer these colours one at a time:
Layer beige to add classic winter warm to black
Beige is a classic and neutral wardrobe staple in its own right. It exudes sophistication and luxury, adding a touch of refinement and elegance to any outfit. Paired with black, it always looks super chic and confidently elegant.
The obvious choice for adding beige to black is to throw on a classic trench coat. This iconic piece effortlessly lifts any outfit, adding a touch of refined charm and versatility to both casual and formal looks. Its clean lines and tailored silhouette make it a perennial wardrobe essential, which seamlessly transitions from season to season. Whether worn over a tailored suit or layered with casual separates, the classic trench remains a timeless symbol of enduring style and effortless grace.
Beige leather adds a touch of luxury to black. Try wearing a soft beige leather jacket like the one pictured above. It looks great with black pants and top but would also look great over a black dress or skirt. Alternatively add a stylish bag or a pair of statement shoes. A beige cashmere sweater or scarf will always look refined.
Add warm toasty camel to black
The classic pairing of camel and black has been a big part of the quiet luxury trend of 2023, but it’s also a timeless combination that’s not going to fade away anytime soon. Camel is a rich warm and earthy colour that works brilliantly against the drama and depth of black. I’ve shown it above with some gorgeous knitwear that adds a cosy and stylish warmth to this classic combination. Try a soft camel cashmere hoodie or a fuzzy mohair vest to add texture and interest.
For me, camel works best with black when it is added via a soft and plush garment, like a quality wool coat, a soft scarf or faux fur. The textures accentuate the warmth of the colour and interest to the overall look.
Yes, you can wear brown with black
It used to be said that you should never wear brown and black together, but that style edict is now very much a thing of the past. Today you most definitely can. If your reluctant to break this rule, take a look at the pictures above and see how well it works. Still unsure? Take a look at some of the fantastic black and brown outfits on Pinterest, you’ll definitely change your mind.
Adding a black and brown pattern to an all black outfit can be a good choice if you’re not too confident. For instance, you could wear the brown and black tortoiseshell coat pictured below over completely black outfit and look really stylish. Similarly the bucket hat would be a safe bet with black.
Add orange accents to black
Orange is an eye catching colour that can add warmth and zing to black in winter. Personally, I like just a touch of orange, but not too much! A bag, a scarf or just a touch of colour in a patterned fabric to give that little point of interest to lift your look. Burnt orange, rather than bright orange is also a good choice close to fairer, older skin like mine. Darker skin types always look fabulous in orange whatever their age.
layer on the soft lemon sunshine
Who doesn’t need some winter sunshine? Lemon yellow is a soft sunny colour, ideal for lifting black in winter. Go for soft yellow not neon. They’re kinder to older faces and look better in the winter daylight. Try out different colour tones and see which one works best for you. There’s a perfect yellow for everyone, you’ve just got to find yours. Try buttermilk, it’s a lovely soft yellow and has been on-trend this winter.
So, come on, have some fun and add a bit of sunshine into your gloomy February.
Conclusion
Adding a warm colour tone to a black outfit can help to lift not only your outfit but also your mood. If like mine, your wardrobe of winter black is feeling dull and predictable, give it a boost by layering in some beige, camel, brown, orange or yellow. Have some fun, try something new and lift that late winter gloom.
Thanks so much for reading my post. If you would like to please add a comment in the box below or subscribe to my newsletter.
Sian. x
Leave a Reply