If you came across our previous article, How to wear pink, we mentioned that Pantone had selected two colors for the year-Rose quartz (an earthy,light pink) and Serenity (a pale blue). Earlier I showed you how to wear pink, now let’s explore the exciting options with blue.

Check out all our recent color guides here.

Serenity conveys exactly what the name implies, a calm and easy blue that is flattering on every skin tone. It is also extremely versatile and closely related to pastel blue.

The beauty of this shade, is its timeless quality. If you invest in the right pieces in this shade, you can wear them season after season. Here are a few quick tips for wearing pale blue.

How to wear pale blue | 40plusstyle.com

1. Pair with contrasting and bold colors

Create a chic look by pairing a pale blue piece with either a more subdued (yet contrasting) color, or  a bold color. In this instance the pale blue works as a neutral, which helps bring out the full strength of whichever contrasting color you choose. We particularly like the juxtaposition between the pale blue sweater and a reddish hue (such as the Chloe pants below).

colorblock orange red blue slit skirt | 40plusstyle.com

2. Pair with neutrals for a fresh look

Adding a neutral tone to your pale blue item will help give the ensemble a bit more of a foundation and give it a fresh and crip look (especially when paired with white). Select quality fabrics when going with a neutral pairing, as quality material and tailoring will create a cleaner and more luxe outfit.

blue neutral looks blazer pants | 40plusstyle.com

3. Go monochromatic for a soft and striking look

A pale blue monochromatic ensemble will create both a soft and striking look. The key to keep it from being too soft (or Easter like), is to add contrasting accessories that add a little edge. Slight variations in shade (such as with the top and trouser pairing below) create the same elongating look but keep it from looking too much like a uniform.

blue monochromatic dress pants | 40plusstyle.com

4. Accessorize

As always, accessories are the best way to go if you want to highlight your outfit with a select color. In this instance, the pale blue hue can work to soften an edgy or dark look. It can also serve as a low key contrast, which gives you a visually appealing look without being too jarring.

Pantone blue accessories | 40plusstyle.com

I was very interested to see the color combinations that others are creating for Serenity, so we went over to colourlovers and the following 4 color palettes caught our eye:

blue colourlovers pantone 2016 | 40plusstyle.com

I really liked the diversity of hues in the Mr&MrsG palette, so  opted to play around with these spring shades, which are both transitional and contrast elegantly.

The the more somber tones at both ends of the spectrum (deep burgundy and navy blue) contrast perfectly with the lighter shades from the same color family (light pink and pale blue). The more neutral tone in the center provides a great foundation to experiment with various color combinations.

blue color combinations spring | 40plusstyle.com

Here are four looks inspired by the Mr&MrsG color palette.

blue looks lace skirt dress coat | 40plusstyle.com

How do you plan on wearing pale blue this season?

 

Sylvia

Sylvia is 40+style’s editor-in-chief and has been helping women find their unique style since 2011. An alumni of the School of Color and Design, she is devoted to empowering women of any age to look and feel their best. Read more about Sylvia and 40+style on this page.

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