Fashion Myths: Big Purchases Should Be in Neutrals

I saw it when I worked at Nordstrom all the time. A woman comes in looking for a nice everyday handbag. She ends up loving the item in burgundy or emerald (you name the color). When she finally makes it to the checkout, she ends up with black. Wait, what? I thought she loved the color? 

It’s so easy to default to black or neutrals when making a big purchase, like a bag, pair of shoes, or a basic blazer. There are many reasons, but the most common is that neutrals are safe and go with everything. But here’s why I think you shouldn’t default to neutrals when making big purchases.

Stop Defaulting to Black

Black is not a bad color. I personally like black a lot. It’s chic, sophisticated, and a bit edgy. What’s not to like? 

However, I notice a lot of women wearing black for none of the above reasons. They wear black to hide their bodies. They wear black because they don’t know how to wear colors. Or they wear black because it’s a default choice. 

Sure black “goes” with everything, but do you actually love black? Do you really want all of your shoes and bags to be black? Does black bring you the optimum enjoyment? If black isn’t an intentional, stylistic choice, it’s a safe choice, and the sophistication of the color fades.

Neutrals Go with Everything?

Maybe you’re reading this and you’re thinking “but neutrals go with everything.” Look at your closet. Is it mostly neutrals? If it is then hear me out - if you buy neutral accessories because they go with every color, then buying a colorful bag will go with everything in your neutral wardrobe. A pop of color is a great way to showcase your personality and have some fun!

And neutrals may go with everything, but do you know what else goes with everything? Jewel tones. Earth tones. Muted colors. There are so many different colors that can be harmonious with other ones. I get that an energetic cobalt blue would be hard to wear everyday, but try calmer colors like a soft sage or a deep mustard. 

Create a Cohesive Aesthetic

Creating a cohesive aesthetic will help you pair colors together effortlessly. Something that has really helped me is to figure out what color season I am. It’s all about whether you’re warm toned or cool toned (read my guide on finding your color season). 

I’m a spring, which is a warm season, so most of my clothes are warm toned colors. Pairing colors is a lot easier when the undertones are the same. If all your clothing is warm toned, then the overall look will feel a lot more harmonious. 

All this is to say that if you love the seafoam green bag, get it! The warm blue-green color will go with your yellows and oranges as well as other warm blues and of course, those creamy whites. 

Generally, I think if you know your personal style, you should buy what speaks to you because you’ll end up with a closet full of things that you love. And people generally aren’t super eclectic, so chances are they’ll be related. 

As always - may your weekend be full of creativity and style.