Lavender, peach, mint green, dusty rose. This year, one of the hottest Spring trends is pastels and as with many trends, some women aren't sure how to incorporate them into their existing wardrobe.
The great thing about a trend is that just because you adopt it, it doesn't mean that you have to go whole hog. There's no reason why you can't incorporate it here and there -- no one said you to have to wear it head to toe.
If you're interested in giving pastels a go this spring but not sure how best to go about it, here are three ways to incorporate them into your wardrobe -- without looking like an Easter egg (not that there's anything wrong with that).
1. Mix It In
One simple way to introduce pastels into your wardrobe is to pair it with something you already have.
Instead of grabbing a white t-shirt to wear with your blue jeans, how about choosing a pale blue or mauve one? Have a pair of grey jeans or army green cargos? Try a baby pink or soft yellow top instead.
Pastels go great with other neutrals as well. Cream, ivory, light grey, white or whatever you have on hand -- all would compliment any of the pastel shades.
Don't stop there -- bright colours are well-suited with pastels as well. Whether you opt for a more monochromatic look such as wearing a light pink top with bright pink pants or decide on the colour blocking route by wearing a pale yellow jacket with bright purple shorts, don't be afraid to experiment. You'd be surprised at how many combinations you can create.
2. Edge It Up
Some women like the look of pastels but don't want to seem overly sweet and girlie when wearing them. One easy way of avoiding this is to pair your pastels with some edgier pieces.
Let's say you've got a favorite black biker jacket that you love to wear. There's nothing wrong with pairing it with a pastel top or bottoms -- like a pair of mint skinnies.
Not into leather? Then perhaps you've got some studded bracelets or rocker necklaces that you could add to your outfit. The combination of the softer pastels with the edgier details is a nice contrast and keeps your look from becoming too saccharine.
3. Accessorize It
If you like the idea of pastels but don't necessarily want to wear them, you could always incorporate them into your accessories. How about a butter yellow cross-body bag or clutch? Or maybe a pale pink belt?
Still too much of a commitment? How about painting your nails a light jade or buying some inexpensive bangles in a variety of pastels to spruce up a neutral outfit? Don't forget about scarves -- they're a fun and inexpensive way to add a little pastel to an existing outfit.
Which brings me to one final point about wearing pastels. Not every skin tone is suited to the paleness of pastels and neither is every shade suited to every person. If you're thinking of wearing pastel tops, jackets, scarves or anything that sits close to your face, make sure to test the colour first.
Bring the item close to your face and take note of the changes to your appearance. Are the shadows on your face more pronounced? Do you look washed out or rather sickly? If so, then that colour's not for you. On the other hand, if your face seems to glow or if all the shadows seem to disappear, then you've found your shade.
However you decide to incorporate pastels this Spring, remember that in fashion these days, the possibilities are endless. The only limit is your comfort level and imagination.
