I 'm scared of colour. I've put on a bit of weight and I tend to go for darker colours, as they are more slimming. My partner recently mentioned that I used to wear more colour but where do I start? Although I love looking at dresses in vibrant hues and vivid patterns, I always end up at the till with the same-shaped garments in the safe black option.
Have you any advice?
I empathise with your dilemma. However, hiding behind dark colours can make you feel dowdy, and worse about yourself, especially as summer is finally here. If you are too frightened to suddenly don a myriad of rainbow brights, why not try introducing small splashes of colour to your existing wardrobe.
Throw a colourful mac over your boring black ensemble and you suddenly have a flattering spring look that will work whatever your body shape. Introduce colourful accessories such as floral tote, a striped scarf or a pair of red heels and before you know if you’ve gone from drab – to fab!
Limit yourself to one section only (colour) and start small - the head-to-toe Missoni kaftan isn't for the faint hearted. Colour breeds colour, so try darker shades of a colour: darker greens, berries and burnt oranges. If you have put on weight, avoid brights in problem areas and introduce colour slowly, for instance a bright pair of shoes or beads, or layering a shocking-pink vest under a black one.
And don't worry: black is big for autumn/winter 2009.
