New Ways to Wear Neutral

New Ways to Wear Neutral

After meeting with some clients today, I realized that one of the biggest qualms for women as far as wearing color is knowing what to wear that color with. I'm not necessarily talking about the uber-trendy bright colors, but more like Khakis, Navy, Gray, and even Olive Green. Many of these are colors I consider "neutrals" - as in interchangeable with black and brown for the most part, but how do you make the most of these neutral colors and what do you wear them with to keep your outfit from being so "neutral?" 

Here are some suggestions:

NAVY
Color message wise, I love navy. If you are interviewing for a job, GET A NAVY BLAZER NOW! navy says "confident, reliable, dependable, honest, etc." - all good things that an employer wants to in a job candidate. Studies have shown that wearing the color navy really does impact employers' decisions as to whether or not to hire a candidate (obviously it is more of a sub-conscious thing).
Here are some great colors to pair with navy:
- Orange: No you won't look like a Bronco's player if you do it right - more navy, less orange. Orange is a great accent color to navy as it is vibrant and can really pop against the dark shade that navy comes in. 
- Bubblegum pink: vibrant colors of any kind will really help navy to do it's job - lend a supporting role, while being neutral enough to work with these bright colors and not "compete for the spotlight." Plus, navy is softer than black so there won't be such a stark contrast between the bright color and the navy. Try a navy trouser with a hot pink blouse. You'll be surprised at how "wearable" that hot pink blouse really is. 
- Turquoise: Another bright color. It pops against the navy but also blends well enough to give you that "put-togehter" look that we all crave. 
- Kelly Green: This bright shade of green works well with navy because it is a very basic (yet bright) color. I wouldn't necessarily put it with a bright blue (too many primary colors), but the navy is subtle enough to let the green shine and still look classy. 


OLIVE GREEN
This neutral shade is a great option - especially for those with warmer skin tones. It looks surprisingly feminine when paired with "girly"colors, yet helps those colors from looking too "frilly." It's a great neutral to help break up color while keeping black from causing too much of a contrast.
Great colors to pair with olive green are:
- Cantaloupe (light yellow): This color, paired with olive green looks feminine and flirty. Still, it doesn't look over the top girly and still is able to shine against the subtle background of an olive green staple piece. 
- Petal pink: This is one of my favorites to mix with olive green. Usually such a frilly color, "baby pink" is usually reserved for weddings and Easter Sunday. I love this color paired with olive green because it is allowed to be girly and the olive green provides a nice compliment which makes it a little more wearable on a day to day basis. No one will be expecting that you are looking for the wedding party when you pair these two together. 
- Hot pink: In a similar way that the light pink works with the olive green, so too does the bright pink. Once again, the olive green is a grounding color, allowing pink to stand out in all it's glory, but keeping it from looking too over-the-top girly. This is a perfect combination. 

IVORY
Ivory isn't quite as flexible as white as far as being able to be paired with any color. Ivory demands crisp color pairings, otherwise it runs the risk of looking boring and somewhat "blah."
Some colors that will keep the ivory looking great:
- Forest green: This bright color pops against the ivory and as expected, the neutral color of the ivory keeps it from looking so startling as it would if it were paired with white. 
- Crispy baby blue: Although this isn't a bright color, this color works when added to ivory in a CRISP fashion (say a crisp blue shirt). This lets ivory take center stage, yet ads interest. 
- Hot pink: Because of the bright pop that hot pink brings, it works with ivory to keep the interest coming. Rather than looking washed out, the pink helps the ivory to do it's job - work as a base for the pink to take center stage. Even if you are wearing an ivory suit (which can look very sophisticated), a hot pink shirt underneath will steal the stage away from the suit but, the suit itself will look very appropriate and beautiful, rather than dull thanks to the pop of pink. 
- Light yellow: Again, like the baby blue, this color works really well with ivory when paired in a crisp fashion. The yellow brightens the ivory and also shows that the ivory really is that - ivory, not a dull or washed out version of yellow. 

GRAY
Gray is a neutral color that I consider appropriate for almost all occasions. As a softer version of it's counterpart (black), it meshes well with a wider rage of colors because it is a more muted version. This color can be played up two different ways - you can wear it with similar muted tones such as sea foam green and light purple or you can pair it with a bright color such as cobalt blue. Both work with this neutral color.
Some of the best pairings are:
- Cobalt blue: This color will really pop against the muted gray. If the blue was being worn with black, it would almost have to compete for attention (although it does look good with black). With gray, the blue takes center stage. The gray is the perfect counterpart for this startlingly beautiful color. 
- Sea foam green: This tends to be a more muted color but it works well with gray because the two help to enhance each other. Gray does not overpower the green so it is allowed to shine in all of it's glory, yet the outfit is still subtle and subdued. 
- Lavender: Again, a more muted color, it works for the same reason. The overall outfit will be a more subtle or neutral outfit, but the lavender will be able to shine more against the gray backdrop. 
- Lemon yellow: Yellow is a great color this season and it works well with great because it is a bolder color and the gray allows it to pop, without creating too much contrast. Sometimes I am hesitant to pair yellow with black because I don't want to run the risk of looking like a bumble bee. Gray is the perfect answer because it is neutral, yet still powerful in color and the yellow allows both colors to be their best.

While you can obviously wear more than just these suggested colors with the neutral colors being featured, this is a good start to help you find some different ways to wear those colors that you already have in your closet - and is a good way to help you to start looking at colors a different way when shopping for them.

Happy shopping!

Xo, Kristin @ Kristin Golden Image Consulting

www.kristingolden.com

Men's Summer Styles (My list of Must-Have's for Men)

Men's Summer Styles

Summer is all about spending time in the sun, relaxing with friends, cutting out of work early to get to the BBQ, volleyball in the sand (even if you don't live by the beach), and above all, FUN with those you love. While I can write pages and pages on women's summer style (and believe me, I have and will - as it is my FAVORITE season), I thought I would dedicate a blog to men's summer style.

Summer is one of those times where you want to look great, but you don't want to put a lot of effort into it (and more importantly, you don't want to LOOK like you put a lot of effort into it). Just having a few of the right pieces can make having good style a no-brainer! 

Here is a list of some of my summer "must-haves" for men as well as some pieces that I love. Also, here are some great examples of pieces that you can find at places such as Nordstrom, Target, Nordstrom Rack, and other local retailers for prices that won't break the bank (or take away from your summer "fun" fund). 

1 - A couple of pairs of shorts in navy, camel-color, and a few others. For guys who are on the slimmer side, shorts that have big cargo pockets can help to add some "bulk" your look, giving you a a more "filled-out" appearance. For the larger gentleman, shorts that have smaller pockets are generally a better choice.


2- A great pair of sandals. It seems obvious but having a great pair of sandals that you can throw on for almost any event is essential. While I love black flip-flops, I recommend a pair in a more neutral color - these will go with almost all of your outfits and keep from making your feet look bigger (heavy looking shoes make your bottom half look heavy).

3 - Good quality, non-graphic tees. Yes, you loved your "Corona" tees back in college and I am sure that you are proud of your Greek frat tees - but those tees make you look like you are still trying to live back in college. I am not opposed to some detailing - but try and keep it a little more sophisticated than booze and fraternity themes.

4 - Light-weight button downs in fun colors - polos work too. If you brave enough, try a light purple pinstripe or even a pink. Not willing to go that "feminine?" Try something in a yellow, a green, or even a light blue. COLORS are in and will make you look great. Patterns like plaid, pinstripe, and gingham look great patterns for style that are easy and will make you look on trend.

5 - Accessories - I understand not wanting to pile on the jewelry but a nice watch (metal is still my first choice although a sporty watch will look very appropriate for most summer occasions) is a must. Also, try a leather banded bracelet or an simple (yet elegant) silver ring. You don't have to look like you borrowed your girlfriend's jewelry in order to have some accessories that add immensely to your look.

6 - A nice, well-fit pair of jeans. I still maintain that every man needs a pair of dark jeans that can be dressed up or down. For summer, add to that list a pair of medium wash jeans. Still, try and stay away from too much distressing or details as that will completely take away from the point of having "simple" or "clean-cut" denim.

7 - A good bathing suit/board shorts. I love flowers, colors, patterns, etc. Just make sure they aren't so long that they overwhelm you (below the knee gets a little long for my taste). At the same time, it is Colorado, not Europe so keep the short shorts for your girlfriend. Don't wear a swimsuit around unless you are going to be in a setting where there is potential for swimming (or at least some sand volleyball).

8 - A nice pair of sunglasses. I am a fan of the cheapies - the ones that can get lost, stepped on, or jacked by your best friend and you won't miss them, but I think a nice pair of sunglasses (these examples are Ray-Bans and Deisel) are a must-have summer item for any guy who wants to take their look up a notch.

9 - A nice shoe to wear in place of flip flops when the occasion calls. While there aren't too many events where it is inappropriate to wear flip flips, there are going to be times where a nicer shoe (or a shoe in general) is in order. A boat shoe is the perfect answer. Toms are also a great option. I love the burlap Toms for both men and women!

10 - A soft, neutral-colored summer sweater or pull-over. This will be great for evenings or cooler days. Keep it lightweight so it can mix and match with the rest of your summer attire. I recommend something in a camel-colored brown, black, navy, rust or even an off-white.

11 - A nice pair of non-denim pants in a softer color (think khaki, brown or gray) - try and stay away a from tapered leg as they won't do any body type many favors!

Happy summer and happy styling! 

Xo, Kristin @ Kristin Golden Image Consulting

www.kristingolden.com

Boutique-hopping in Denver

Kristin Golden Image Consulting has named April as the first annual "boutique awareness month," and in honor of that, I thought I would give you my recommendations on the top boutiques in Denver. These boutiques range from inexpensive to designer, so there's something for everyone!

1) Goldyn Boutique - They have a great selection of designer items and have a great styling team there to help you with sizes and selections! This isn't your store if you're looking to find something for under $50 - but when you need (or want) something a little more designer or a little better quality, this is the first place I would check!
Check them out at: 2040 West 30th Avenue  Denver, CO 80211 or call (720) 489-0580.

2) Blush - This is a fun boutique in LoDo that does carry some designer brands but mixes it up with some more inexpensive pieces. Definitely worth checking out! 
Check them out at 1411 Larimer St  Denver, CO 80202 or call (303) 399-7779.

3) Delish Demure - This eclectic boutique in Greenwood Village is just that - eclectic. They have something for almost everyone and their prices range from affordable to "investment" price. 
Check them out at 8000 E Belleview Ave # D10  Greenwood Vlg, CO 80111 or call (303) 740-1100.

**I have to make a retraction - after an unpleasant shopping experience today, I must say that Delish Demure is no longer a boutique that makes the top of my list. While they do carry some nice brands and some cute items, the salespeople are extremely rude and do not have much consideration for the customers who are in there who don't show an obvious interest in spending a ton of money. Their prices are a bit higher than I remember as well. I don't like to have to make retractions like this - especially when it comes to local businesses but I firmly believe that the salespeople at Delish Demure are there strictly to take your money and they will treat you differently if they don't think that you have the money to spend. I would much rather shop at Goldyn or A-line for some investment pieces, rather than wasting my time with a horrible sales team at Delish Demure.**

4) Pink's Straight from LA - This boutique is located in Denver, on University near Bonnie Brae Ice Cream. It's a great stop for anyone looking to pick up some "trendy" pieces without spending a bunch. You can find fun and flirty pieces for under $50. I would recommend this to anyone looking for vacation attire, trendy "of the moment" clothes, or something that they don't mind letting go of in a year or two. One hesitation - it tends to cater to smaller sizes. While they do carry a good size range, many of their brands run a bit small. Still, it's worth a stop in!
Check them out at 745 South University Boulevard, Denver, Colorado 80209 or call (720) 570-2486.

5) Inspyre Boutique - This is another one of those fabulously inexpensive boutiques that carries a wide array of trendy pieces for under $50. If you are looking for a fun sundress to launch off your summer wardrobe or a cute new wardrobe for vacation, this place is worth checking out. 
Check them out at 2021  West 32nd Avenue, Denver, CO 80211 or call (303) 718-2645.

6) The Garment District - Once again, this is a shop that might require a few extra dollars but they do carry brands that will last for a good amount of time and they are great at helping you find your best fit!
Check them out at 2595 S. Colorado Boulevard, Denver, Co 80222 or call (303) 757-3371.

7) PJ's Boutique - This boutique is a fun little store down on Pearl Street in Denver. They carry a good selection of items and brands that cater to just about any budget. A big plus - the staff is super friendly and the location is great if you are looking for something else to do after you hit up the shop!
Check them out at 1509 South Pearl Street, Denver, CO 80210 or call (303) 777-8912.

8) The Blue Jean's Bar - It's not the most inexpensive place in Denver to get jeans BUT, if you are having a hard time finding jeans that fit, than this is a great stop. They carry a large number of brands and their staff is pretty knowledgable for the most part. Aside from denim, they carry some fun shoes and accessories, as well as some pretty cute clothes. I'd rate it at an average price range - but it's a store you will want to visit at least once! 
Check them out at 250 Fillmore Street, Denver, CO 80206 or call (720) 542-3756. 

9) Roxy Boutique - This boutique has now expanded to two Denver locations. While it originally started as a boutique in Vail (and then Beaver Creek), they have brought their product down to Cherry Creek North and LoDo. Some pieces are marked up a bit too high but they do have the greatest selection of Michael Stars that I have ever seen (which is great if you are looking for some good quality basics). Check out either one of their Denver locations at: 2549 Welton Street, Denver, CO 80202 or call them at (720) 381-6420 OR 2628 E. 3rd Avenue, Denver, CO 80206 or call them at (303) 316-7774.

10) A-Line Boutique - This is a beautiful boutique located in Greenwood Village. While the styles are a little more fashion-foward and the price point is a bit higher, you can find some great "investment pieces" at this store. I love their selection and their staff is so friendly and helpful. (Just don't expect to walk out with multiple pieces without spending a couple hundred dollars). 
Check them out at 5375 Landmark Pl # 107  Greenwood Vlg, CO 80111 or call (303) 773-8200.

11) The Crazy Merchant - As I have written about them before, they are a great place to go to get your fix of "Fashion Jewelry." They are known for they're beading and "crafty" jewelry but they also have some really great "off the shelf" pieces at great prices. One of the best things - if you can't find something you like, they'll make it for you! 

Check them out at 1700 West Belleview Avenue  Littleton, CO 80120 or call them at (303) 761-6100.

Happy Boutique hopping! Don't forget, for this month, you can purchase four hours of boutique shopping for $250!


Call 720-207-4912 to find out more information about Kristin Golden Image Consulting's "Boutique Awareness Month" and our boutique shopping specials. 

Xo, Kristin @ Kristin Golden Image Consulting


www.kristingolden.com