Rarely, if ever will you hear me say I cannot wear that color. However, brown is where that line gets etched in cement. Although brown is grounded energetically, sophisticated, and a total neutral which means it pairs with absolutely everything including BLACK. Yes, black is a very chic way to accomplish a monochromatic look with tones that are slightly off. Wearing most shades of brown close to my face is a no no.
Now having said that, certain shades don’t work. Allow me to expand the brown pallet so we can all find our niche. By the way, the Pantone color of the year is “Mocha Mousse,” hence the title. I researched and cannot find Pantone ever using a brown as their color of the year before. If you can find evidence otherwise, please let me know.
This is a significant departure from recent color choices for color of the year which were more vibrant or quiet pastels. It also signifies a move towards stability, familiarity, and connection. Symbolically, the color brown aligns with the year’s focus on well-being and connecting with nature, evoking warmth, harmony, and serenity. Color has vibration, and few can argue that we don’t need a calmer and softer vibration at this time.
Brown actually spans the shade spectrum from the lightest of beiges and camels all the way up and through Mahogany; it just depends on how much of the “browning” pigments are added as well the contrasts of red, orange and black, making this color ideal for foundational pieces like boots, trousers, blazers and handbags. So, when I said I cannot wear certain shades of brown, it was in reference to the color being close the face. All the dynamics change when the color moves down the body. Using brown as an anchor color invites other autumnal colors to the party which can be more flattering when worn closer to the face.
Think of wearing an orange sweater with a pair of brown trousers – very chic! Or a plum silk blouse with a brown tweed skirt or a brown suit with a soft pastel blue shirt and striped tie. The possibilities are quite endless, and many are most likely already in your closet, waiting to be rediscovered.
As we enter Fall, think of getting dressed as a walk in nature; blend together the colors of the woods and meadows. Mother nature continually creates the very best palettes, and she won’t mind at all if you copy them.
Dress for the day you want – NOT – the day you are given.
Be well, Be Stylish, Be Kind as you Glow with me!