Avoiding Monochrome Monotony, Part I: Color on Color

When I first started creating my business wardrobe, it consisted of zero patterns and only two "colors": black & white. I had no idea how to break into the color scene. And I was hesitant to do so on a budget, fearing I would regret color choices and having no idea how to match colored pieces with the rest of my wardrobe. But after a few months in the corporate world, my simple monochrome closet also created a sense of monotony in my daily life. My self-confidence regarding my appearance as a businesswoman diminished and that reflected in my self-confidence in my quality of work as well.

There are several ways to respond and change that feeling. While my wardrobe is a superficial aid to boost my confidence, it is a real factor that I consider important for my success as a businesswoman. I truly believe that when I feel good about myself physically, those feelings pour into the rest of my life and act as a catalyst for my other great work qualities to shine through. Maybe you feel the same and maybe you do not. Either way, I'll be sharing (through a series of posts) the ways that I try to eliminate the monotonous feelings that I sometimes permit to take over.

First on the agenda is adding colors. You can always pair a colored shirt with a pair of black pants or a neutral shirt with a colored pencil skirt, for example. But sometimes that might still feel a little too much like a uniform. Feel free to break through that structure and pair several colors together! I personally love pairing various shades of the same color together to create a unique, professional look. While making sure colors don't clash or look like an accidental mismatch of suit pieces is important, it shouldn't stop you from trying something new. Here are two tips to trying out color on color:

1. If two shades of the same color seem a little too close for the accidental mismatch hazard, pair different textures together. The colors are compatible and simply need a touch of intention behind them. Here are two examples of my favorite pink pencil skirt from Express paired with two very similarly colored tops, one of which has a more satin texture and the other has a more cotton cozy texture.

2. Choose similar tones of the same color. For example, if you choose a pastel color, then (if you're on a budget) I would invest in a few pieces in a similar color on the pastel pallet (versus buying a pastel blue and a bold royal blue for example).

My last tip would be: Don't be afraid to try it out! At least try on the outfit that you pictured in your head. Sometimes it works and sometimes it doesn't. But that's the beauty of it. You're creating a business style that identifies with your unique self while complying with the business uniform! And if you're still at a loss, ask a friend, post an IG story for a vote, or message me! I want to be a sounding board for fashion tips in the corporate world and I would absolutely love to support your journey! Here's one more example for a little inspiration!

As always, thanks for reading! Xo, Pax