The power of colour
The Paul Smith show was so joyful – aside from the clothes, he’d laid down lilac carpet and a rainbow backdrop – it got me thinking about the power of colour. It’s ridiculous how good bright shades are in helping to spread a smile. Particularly in an office environment where things can get, y’know, a bit serious. I’m not usually a bright colour person – although I love colourful interiors, my everyday wardrobe tends to be black, navy and khaki. But this year a spotty yellow pie-crust shirt has done for my energy levels what a zesty slice of lemon will for your gin and tonic. Instant sartorial zing. A deep blue printed silk kimono I wore to a wedding recently had a similar effect. With the news feeds as dire as they are and the sunshine due back today, maybe now’s the time to take a colour bath (Paul Smith online sale now 50 per cent off, just saying). If you’re worried about looking like a Play School presenter, don’t be. Try block colours separated with neutrals – avoid black, which can make vivid colour look cheap.
Navy is a good foil to most rich colour. Orange and red are great with khaki. Citrus shades with white are instant refreshers.
If this all sounds far too cheerful, I find those slightly off mid-century hues – tan/ dirty orange/teal/bottle green – provide just the amount of lift without forgoing all of one’s carefully acquired street-cred cool.