Coordinating Perfectly

Hey Pres,
I love The Pres Method for buying one perfect outfit. Can you address the subject of coordinating colors. I can match, but coordinating and using a pop of color is really hard for me.
Thanks!


I'll review The Pres Method: Start with the part of the outfit that is hardest to fit for you: the top, or the bottom; some folks start with shoes. Then, take that part (we'll assume it's the pants) over to the tops and find one perfect top that coordinates with the pants. The top must not ride up or gap, and it must end on the sweet spot on your hip. When you have the basic parts, take them over to shoes, and find the perfect ones. Have the bottom shortened (pin while wearing the outfit) for the shoes. Remember that we aren't stocking up on a bunch of versatile items; we're making one perfect outfit (for now.)

If you need a jacket over, try them on with the parts that you have. Hang the outfit in the closet, with all the parts in place (if you can bear not to wear it immediately.) When shopping, don't aim for a vague set of things that might look good one day with something you may have or might find. Assemble one perfect outfit that you want to wear right now.

Later, you can take your favorite part of the outfit shopping with you, and perhaps find another part for it. But another perfect part. Remember that we are always looking for one perfect outfit. A closet full of perfect outfits beats one jammed with sweaters, skirts and shoes that look just OK with one another.

Now, on to coordinating colors. It's trickier than matching, and that's why it looks so nice. There are color families that work together, once you get the hang of them.
And, there are tricky colors which should stand alone in outfits; the most famous one is bright red. If you use bright red for the clutch, don't add red shoes.

Although experienced pickers can mix many colors, there are some tips for beginners, too. First, if you add a print to your outfit (like leopard shoes) you can use the colors of the print for your other components: the leopard is made of brown, tan, black, or maybe other colors. You can echo these other colors in your ensemble: Black tights, a tan skirt, black sweater. I'd add a pop of red here (the bag?) but I'm an expert. It's always safe to use the colors of the print. BTW, you don't have to wear the print, you can use it to help you coordinate colors, and then leave it behind, if you want to.

Another technique is to notice what tones are in the color at hand. Purple is made of blue and red, so either of those can go into the ensemble; as can pink. If you are unsure, manufacturers often coordinate pieces for sale; ask the sales assistant "what was shown with this, please?"

Did that help any?