Fashion might be constantly in flux, but if one thing never changes, it’s the power of a good neutral look. Head-to-toe neutrals are timeless classics perfect for everything from a relaxing afternoon with friends to high-pressure professional events to a glam night out. Plus, seeding your wardrobe with neutrals is the perfect way to ensure you’ve always got a polished look or something to pair with that new statement piece you took a chance on.
So what’s a neutral? While some may include muted tones like lilac, sage green, and blush, I’m focusing on what I’d call “true neutrals”—the colors that go with anything: black, white, gray, beige, and brown. And while a monochrome look is never a bad choice, remember that “neutral” doesn’t mean “plain.”
Building Blocks of a Wardrobe
Your wardrobe staples and basics are the #1 place to focus on neutrals. Whether you’re building a simple but chic look or looking for the right jacket to pair with a colorful dress or top, having neutrals around is an effortless choice.
Stick to solids for basics, and you won’t have to worry about pattern-mixing or your outfits getting too busy. Consider a black faux leather jacket, chunky tan cardigan, or the ever-classic white jeans—like the Ren Jeans Free Sewing Pattern, made in white denim.
Add a Little Spice
Once your basics are sorted out, it’s time to start finding ways to bring a little visual interest to your looks. Ease into it with some texture: the shine of satin against a rib knit, the pure luxury in the contrast between velvet and lace, or even subtle linen slubs against crisp cotton.
If physical texture isn’t working for you, consider adding visual texture with a neutral pattern instead. Checks, plaids, and stripes can’t be beat for classic style, or you can dress up a favorite pattern with a sweet floral, as we did with the Vallea Tunic Free Sewing Pattern.
Go Big and Bold
Neutrals aren’t all about blending in—you don’t need color to create a bold look. Neutrals are the perfect place to think about contrast. We covered contrast in texture, but contrast in color and value are just as important. Audacious black-and-white patterns bring a little extra oomph to even the simplest garment (have you seen The Metro Collection?), and a combination of black and white with brown or beige can feel downright colorful in the right print.
For our standout look, we brought big and bold in the form of an animal print to the Trillium Jacket Free Sewing Pattern—and it’s the perfect piece to prove that neutrals can truly go the distance.
