Neutral Looks Don’t Have to Be Boring!

Written by Kelli Colbert

Happy Monday Wear + Where + Well readers! Kelli, here again… As you might recall, back in August, I shared 18 neutrals on my radar for fall. You see, contrary to Carrie’s colorful cacophony style, my style tends to be very neutral. Today, I’m back and excited to share with you some fun photos of my current off-duty neutral favorites.

Side note: Huge shout out to the uber talented photographer Maritere Rice for making me feel so comfortable for my first official blog shoot 🙂

4 Tips for Creating Anything-But-Basic Neutral Looks

Here are a few tips I utilize when styling my neutral looks to make them anything but basic…

1. Play with proportions

If I’m wearing a skirt, like this high-waisted destroyed mini from Mother Denim (same skirt, different color), I’ll make sure to balance out the top with longer sleeves. Sometimes, less is more when showing skin. Plus, the juxtaposition of the pieces creates visual interest.

Right now, I’m loving the trend of lace up knit wear that’s popping up all over the place. This Madewell lace-up sweater in a charcoal hue is a favorite of mine, and it happens to be on sale! Other lace up sweater options to consider:  Other Options: this ivory sweater for less than $150 or this blush option for less than $60!

2. Add some metallics

All of the jewelry that I am wearing is from local Texas designer The JEN Collection. This line carries the most amazing and unique fine jewelry pieces, including the matte gold chain necklace that I am wearing, adorned with a unique pave diamond pendant. In full disclosure, I work for the company. So, though I may be biased, my love for the jewelry is warranted. It is unbelievably beautiful. Feel free to email us with inquiries ([email protected]).

Beyond jewelry, there are other ways you can mix in metals. Consider sunglasses… I’m loving Illesteva sunglasses these days. Their designs are so unique and the lenses come in a plethora of different sheens ranging from bronze to even bright purples. A splash of shiny metals really makes the outfit pop! In particular, check out these and these.

3. Mix in some fun and funky patterns

Patterns keep things interesting. Specifically for this season, try to mix in two of my current favorite patterns: skulls and stars. Shop a slew of these patterns in links here:

4. Opt for black bags that are anything but basic

Of course, we all know that every woman needs a good black bag in her closet. But do you realize how many non-basic, non-boring black bags there are out there these days? Rejoice!

Now, I have a new personal favorite… I love this fringed Saint Laurent bucket bag that I received for my birthday recently. This bag is super versatile and can be worn as a clutch, shoulder bag, or even a cross body! And, good news – it’s well over 50% off on several sites right now. If, even on sale, that splurge still isn’t in your budget, don’t worry! I understand and have you covered. I found this great bargain in a similar style as well. Browse all the bags below. Tell me – can you spot the bargain option?

Not-So-Basic Bargains

If you’re like me, you love finding a good bargain! So I wanted to be sure to point out the best bargains of my look…

The biggest bargains of my look:

• My favorite, super comfy, OTK microsuede boots by Sam Edelman are less than $125. Seriously I love these and wear them all the time!
• Plus, this incredible bargain rancher hat is just $24! Can you believe that?

And, by the way, scroll to the bottom of this article to shop everything from my look!

A Few Final Thoughts…

So, tell me… Are you a neutral lover like I am? If so, I’d love to hear any tips you may have! Leave your thoughts in the comment section.

Finally, Carrie wanted me to mention a few things:

1. Did you see the giveaway we are hosting with Minted? See the details here, and enter!
2. Did you catch us talking Houston holiday sweets on Houston Life last week? If not, watch and read about the TV segment here.
3. Plus, we have teamed up with our friends at Macaron by Patisse to offer you a holiday discount. More info here. This is valid not only for Houstonians but for shipping across the US!
4. Check back right here later today to find out the winners of the (2) $1,000 Saks gift cards given away in conjunction with our color-coded gift guides.

GIVEAWAY WINNERS!

Wendy + Stephanie win the $1,000 Saks gift cards. I’ve emailed them. Thanks so much for entering and reading and shopping our gift guides!

Thanks for reading, and have a great week!

Photos by Maritere Rice