Audrey: May 2014

Instead of reaching for your usual block coloured outfit why not opt for prints instead? Prints are a great way to add an extra element to your look. Understandably, people can be a little intimidated by the style (including myself), however try incorporating small portions to your outfit, either through shoes, scarves or a clutch/bag! And start with the classic prints, stripes, polka dots and plaid. If you are braver you can try print on print, either the same print - this looks particularly smart and works well for the office, or mix different prints for a more casual look. However, BEWARE: this can be hard to get right, but when it is done right it looks oh so good! Nevertheless, I shall share street inspiration and leave you to judge!

Inspiration

Here are some of my fav prints, be sure to check out (and support) these Aussie labels...

Cameo

Finders Keepers

Bec and Bridge

xo.

By wearing the correct colours to match your complexion you can improve your look and it will look effortless. Firstly, we have to determine what category your skin tone falls under. These categories are broken down into seasons and are distinguished by the coloured undertones of your skin. To decide whether you have a cool (winter/spring) or warm (summer/autumn) complexion, simply check the underneath of your arms! If the veins running down your forearm appear blue you are a 'cool' complexion, if they appear green-ish then you fall under the 'warm' category. We then consider the individual tones, pale, medium and dark and then eye colour.

Tones

Cool Tones – If you fall under this category you will usually have either pale or dark skin with blue or pink undertones. Bright, bold colours will bring out these undertones and show off your skin to the best effect. Don’t be afraid to go bold with solid primaries and pastels, but bare in mind my tips coming up later for individual skin tones.

Warm Tones – These skin types tend to have deeper, richer undertones of golds and yellows. Avoid anything too bright or bold, and think of Autumn’s key colour palettes when picking out your outfits.

This is still a little vague, so additionally there is the more common individual skin types, pale, olive and dark. If you fall somewhere in between these categories you will have to play around with my tips from each skin type, and see what works best with your individual tone.

Fair/Pale Skin

The pale skin is a trait of many blondes and redheads. If you have pale skin the predominant issue is looking ghostlike. Firstly, stick to darker colours that contrast your skin, whites and pale colours will merely wash you out. Navy’s, blues, emerald greens and primary colours will look great on you. Don’t be afraid to go bright and bold, your colourful undertones allow for you to be that bit more bolder with your colours than anyone else. But if you desire a lighter, more subtle look than the bright primary colours, go with icy tones such as teal and turquoise. If you wear black, choose a bright colour such as red, and integrate it in through the accessories or however you like to highlight those rosy undertones. If your rosy undertones are so red that you look like you are constantly blushing, tone it down with a cool primary blue.

Olive/Medium Skin

The medium skin is a trait of brown hair with yellow and green skin undertones. You can generally wear any colour (lucky you!), however here are some tips on what works best for this complexion. Avoid settling for the middle and choose either light or dark tones for your outfit. Beiges, creams and light blues are great for a brighter feel. Pure whites may look a little harsh against your skin but don’t be afraid to experiment, creams would suit your complexion much more easily. Blacks and greys go well for a darker feel, and teamed with a lighter piece is a great mix of contrast. By wearing subtle items of earthy browns and beiges, and sands you can bring out the olive tones of your complexion, but be careful not to overdo it! You can mix with key monotone pieces to avoid this.

Darker Skin

Similarly with the olive complexion, you will find that pretty much all colours suit your tone. Make sure you don’t go either too bright and white, or too dark and black, but keep it bright and fresh with bold colours! Avoid dull colours such as browns and navy’s, and stick to pastels to compliment your blue and pink undertones. Don’t be afraid to go bright and bold teamed with black, or light and fresh teamed with pastels and whites; just avoid the all white or all black look and you’ll look great!

Eye Colour

Additionally with skin and hair types you need to consider eye colour.

Blue eyes – If you have blue eyes, wear blue-simple right?! Find a similar tone or shade to your eyes to bring them out, or wear a slightly darker shade of navy or teal to emphasise the brightness of those beautiful baby blue's. Oranges can also be a great complimentary colour, but keep in mind your skin type at the same time.

Brown eyes - Brown eyes often fall into two categories: those with red tones, and those with green tones. If yours appear reddish, then wear deep, warm tones to highlight them. Reds, yellows, golds and browns fit perfectly, but again be aware of your skin type. If your brown eyes have green tones to them, then wear emerald greens or plums and purples to really compliment and bring out the green.

Hazel or green eyes – Similar to brown with green tones, wear purples and plums to really bring out the green of your eyes.

xo.