Wearing colours: Try a monochromatic look, colour blocking and more to express your personality

Styling tips: Try a pastel blazer or trousers paired with white for a fresh, airy look. (Image: Canva)

If you love wearing colours, don’t let the “everything beige” aesthetic intimidate you. Wearing the right colours is about boosting your confidence and expressing your personality.

Whether you love bright, bold hues or prefer a more neutral palette, learning how to use colours effectively is key to mastering your look this year.

From understanding the art of colour blocking, 2024 has been about experimentation and pushing boundaries. With new takes on timeless classics and playful twists on bold statements, the world of colour is open for you to explore.

So, whether you're trying to stand out with bold power dressing or keep it subtle with pastels and earth tones, there’s a colour combination for everyone.

Start with neutrals as a base

• Neutrals are the foundation of any wardrobe, offering versatility and timeless style. In 2024, the go-to neutrals like black, white, grey, and beige are still in, but the trend also leans toward warmer neutrals like camel, soft olive, and taupe. These shades are perfect for creating a base that you can layer with pops of colour.
• How to wear it: Start with neutral basics like a camel coat, grey trousers, or a beige sweater, and layer them with colourful accessories or bold shoes to create a balanced look.

• Monochromatic outfits are always a stylish option. Wearing a single colour from head to toe elongates your silhouette and creates a sleek, polished look.
• How to wear it: Choose a single shade in varying tones. For example, wear different shades of blue—from navy to baby blue—or opt for an all-white ensemble for a fresh, clean look.
• Updated twist: In 2024, pairing monochrome with textures is in. Mix fabrics like silk, wool, and denim within the same colour family for added dimension.

• Colour blocking is about pairing contrasting or complementary colours to create bold, vibrant outfits. This trend continues to shine in 2024, allowing you to get creative with your wardrobe.
• How to wear it: Pair bright colours like red and pink, yellow and navy, or green and purple for a high-impact look. Keep accessories neutral to balance the vibrancy of the colours.
• Updated twist: The latest take on colour blocking includes incorporating prints and patterns within the blocks for added visual interest.

• Pastel tones are not just for spring anymore. In 2024, soft pinks, baby blues, lavenders, and mint greens are trending year-round, offering a refreshing alternative to bold hues.
• How to wear it: Try a pastel blazer or trousers paired with white for a fresh, airy look. You can also mix pastels with metallic accessories to give the outfit a modern edge.
• Updated twist: Wear pastel tones in oversized or structured pieces, like an oversized lilac coat or mint-green trousers, to add sophistication.

• Earth tones are still going strong this year, reflecting a connection to nature and sustainable living. Browns, terracottas, ochres, and olive greens are great options if you want a warm, grounded look.
• How to wear it: Wear an earth-toned dress or pantsuit and accessorise with gold jewellery to elevate the natural colour palette.
• Updated twist: Pair earth tones with modern, sharp cuts like a tailored terracotta blazer or sleek olive trousers for a contemporary, chic look.

Mix prints with colour

• Prints and patterns add personality to your wardrobe, and in 2024, the bolder, the better. Don't be afraid to mix colours and prints for a head-turning ensemble.
• How to wear it: If you're new to mixing prints, start by pairing a bold pattern with a solid colour from the print's palette. As you get more comfortable, mix stripes with florals or animal prints with polka dots.
• Updated twist: In 2024, mismatched prints in vibrant colours are trending. For example, pair a floral blouse in bright red with a checked skirt in navy for an unexpected yet stylish combination.

• If you’re not ready to commit to full-on colourful outfits, start small by incorporating colour through your accessories. Shoes, bags, and jewellery can add that pop of colour without overwhelming your look.
• How to wear it: Bright red heels or a cobalt blue handbag can make a neutral outfit pop. Coloured jewellery, like emerald earrings or a statement necklace, adds vibrancy without overpowering the outfit.
• Updated twist: In 2024, the trend is to layer colourful accessories—think stacked rings in different gem tones or a mix of colourful scarves tied to your bag.

• Bright, bold hues like electric blue, vivid red, and canary yellow are dominating the fashion scene this year. These colours exude confidence and are perfect for making a statement.
• How to wear it: Choose one bold piece—like a red suit or a yellow dress—and let it be the star of your outfit. Keep accessories and makeup minimal to allow the colour to stand out.
• Updated twist: For an even more daring look, pair bold colours with equally bold accessories, like pairing a bright orange coat with purple shoes.