Favorite Looks: Unexpected Jewel Tones

One of my favorite things about autumn fashion is that jewel tones feel right again! After a summer of bright hues and crisp neutrals, I love stepping back into the lush vibe of deep, saturated colors. They’re perfect for everything from lending interest to a work look to spicing up a holiday party.  I’ve played with them so often that I’ve come to the point where I enjoy pushing the envelope beyond the familiar, though welcome, burgundies and plums. One of my recent successful experiments is the combination of deep blue-teal and amber. Blue and yellow are always amazing together and this exotic pairing is no different.  !).  While cerulean shades often show up as a counterpoint to yellows, this green-blue offers a fun twist that feels richer and more surprising.  (Hint: saffron, marigold and honey shades work well  with this teal shade too). Try it with a sweater and buttondown, paired with beige chinos, corduroys or even medium-wash blue denim (I always consider it a neutral anyway! :)).  Complete the look with a pair of knee or OTK boots in any shade of brown that has a golden or red-gold tone: chestnut, caramel, oak, tan,bittersweet. Add a selection of pendant necklaces for a touch of shine (turquoise or golden-stone pieces that tie the look together more closely are 100% doable a well :)).
Pink has been the rage in fashion for the last few seasons, but it tends to be one of my “forgotten” jewel tones. That needs to stop…yesterday! :) Pair almost any shade of it from rose quartz to magenta with bright cobalt for an of-the moment combination. Stay on-trend by including a chunky sweater or plated A-line skirt (bonus points if you combine the two! ;)). Finish with simple pointy pumps or mules in a neutral tone (don’t forget about my fave: metallic gold! – the warmth looks stunning against the cool blue and cheery pink) or bolster the luxe autumn vibe with a complementary jewel tone like eggplant, grape or violet. Complete the look with coordinating crystal or floral statement earrings.
Orange has been back on fashion’s radar lately and it’s another often-overlooked jewel tone that’s  perfect for fall with its vibrancy and energy. Pair it with contrasting indigo or violet for a sophisticated take on the warm-cool pairing. Add coordinating statement earrings and a laidback neutral ankle boot. PS Clean, bright oranges also look amazing with cobalt and similar bright blues, while earthier tones work with any shade of brown, olive, mustard and eggplant so consider giving those a go as well!).  I hope this inspires you to play with combining jewel tones sometime soon – experimentation is the spice of fashion life! Happy color-explorations :)