![](http://theqandatimes.com/files/media/UserImages/img_173.jpg) | Stephanie Macera
is president and owner of Fashion Cents Consignment Boutique. Stephanie began her business with her sister and grandmother in 1999. She has 15 years experience working in the retail and service industry, formerly with Cessna Aircraft and Havertys Furniture Company. Fashion Cents consigns with individuals, retailers, wholesalers and artists in Wichita and the surrounding area. After the consignment period, unsold merchandise is given to area donation centers such as The Treasure Chest, YWCA Women's Shelter, Operation Holiday and the Children's Home in the consignors name. Stephanie can be reached at (316) 722-8360. |
Clothing, Shoes & Apparel
2003-10-01 08:50:00
Add color to a dull fall wardrobe
Stephanie Macera
Question: I prefer to wear bright colors, but with summer coming to an end it seems that most winter fashions are dark and drab. Is there a way to carry over some of my summer look into the winter months?Answer: The muted tones frequently found in fall and winter fashions can seem dreary after wearing your summer wardrobe full of vibrant colors. The skies and scenery are gray and hazy and then you go to your closet only to find more of the same dark, seemingly lifeless black, khaki, taupe and brown shades waiting for you. We are all stimulated by color in one way or another, and those who thrive when surrounded by bright, sunny, electric color lament the fall season. Not to worry, there are many things that you can do to brighten your fall wardrobe. Fortunately, the fall colors are primarily neutral, which means that you can add splashes of color with accessories or by layering your clothing. The standard fall colors of black, brown, and navy are all excellent backdrops for bright accent colors. As you are putting away your favorite summer clothes, ask yourself if any of the items can be layered with a blazer, sweater or denim jacket to brighten your look. Rather than put them away, incorporate them into your fall wardrobe. A lime green collared shirt with short sleeves or 3/4 length sleeves layered over a crisp white tank will look striking worn with navy blazer and pants. Yellow also works well with navy. Hot pink or red tanks and summer shirts can be layered under a snug black cardigan with tan trousers. Brown can be livened up with accents of deep purple or sunny coral. A denim jacket and jeans can be brightened with a colorful striped turtleneck and matching scarf. The key to adding color to a dull wardrobe is to keep things simple. Stick to adding one solid element of color to an otherwise simple, neutral outfit. Prints can complicate layering. If you want prints in your wardrobe, add a silk scarf that has your accent color and your overall outfit color in it as well. Designers understand our need for year-round color and every fall we are treated to the new "IN" color that you'll see everywhere. Flip through a fashion magazine, or stroll through the accessory aisles as you shop and you'll be sure to find items that will satisfy your craving for color. Don't settle for drab and dull, be your own ray of sunshine!