No wardrobe is complete without a solid collection of reliable neutrals to fall back on; they’re the key pieces that make your standout separates wearable. Traditionally, we’ve all veered towards black, white and grey colours, but this season’s neutrals are warmer and, dare we say it, a little more luxurious. What’s more, they’re absolutely perfect for the upcoming months; they’re the kind of colours that’ll perfectly complement your summer glow. Whether you’re looking to build a capsule wardrobe or just update your basics, these new season neutrals have got you covered.
Shades of Beige
If there’s one neutral colour to invest in this season, it’s beige. Proving that it’s anything but boring, the spring/summer runways were awash with beige shades, from the palest oatmeal to deep camel hues. And more often than not, the models were dressed head to toe in the colour; sleek tailoring and smart layering made these ensembles modern and chic.
L-R: Burberry, Christian Dior, Salvatore Ferragamo (image source: Vogue)
Darker, camel colours are a great entry point if you’re new to the trend; wear this shade with cream or ivory hues for a harmonious finish.
Adopt metallics for the evening; with golden undertones, this warm hue is just right for the night-time.
Cool Khaki
Coinciding with the utility trend, khaki is having a moment. This mossy green shade has an urbane appeal and it’s incredibly versatile. On the runway, militaristic greens were used in outfits that were fit for female warriors. Models stalked down the runway in ensembles that were both free-flowing and tailored, bridging the gap between masculine and feminine. Come summer, this colour is a real go-to; pair a khaki jacket with white jeans, a beige vest top and tan or gold sandals for an effortless daytime look.
L-R: Dsquared2, A.F. Vandevorst, Dries Van Noten (image source: Vogue)
Classic Ivory
Crisp white colours have taken a deeper turn with creamy ivory shades this year. On the catwalk, simple ivory midi dresses were proven to be the most adaptable fashion item of the season, as this off-white hue was used to soften bold block colours or break up other neutrals.
L-R: Alexander McQueen, Zero + Maria Cornejo, Proenza Schouler (image source: Vogue)
If you’re in need of a hard-working ivory dress this year, take inspiration from the runway and choose an off-white piece that can be dressed up or down, depending on the occasion. This cream hi-low hem dress has ‘summer soirée’ written all over it; take a styling tip from the Zero + Maria Cornejo catwalk by pairing yours with hot pink heels.
Navy, Now
Whilst it’s always been in vogue, navy took a darker turn on the spring/summer catwalks. The new navy is almost black; on the catwalk, this elegant hue was worn with contrasting with lighter blues. Every woman should have a pair of navy trousers in her wardrobe; whether tailored or relaxed, they can be styled to suit almost any event, and they’ve got a day to night quality that we love.
L-R: Isabel Marant, Tibi, Monse (image source: Vogue)
Wear these tapered trousers with contrasting blue or off-white shades. Pair them with a basic tee for laid back Sunday lunches, or dress them up with a blouse and heels if you’re looking for something easy to wear on your next night out.
Powdery Pink
Pastel pinks make a return every spring, but it’s only recently that they’ve been considered neutral. Unlike the more pigmented tones we’ve seen in the past, this season’s blush pinks are soft and powdery; they work really well paired with other neutrals like beige or ivory, and they can be worn alone for a feminine finish too. On the catwalk, the colour was used on frou-frou dresses (we’re looking at you, Marc Jacobs!) and sleek tailoring alike. And Prada’s cutesy, 60’s inspired shifts perfectly showcased this sweet, sorbet shade.
L-R: Marc Jacobs, Prada, Boss (image source: Vogue)
The beauty of this colour is that it’s really versatile; it can be sweet or edgy, depending on how you wear it. For a modern take on the trend, pair powdery pink separates with darker colours and tougher fabrics like leather; it’s unexpected and it works – it really works.
