A Neutral Outfit Idea for Spring

While there is lots of pattern and color this spring, there is also a new focus on the neutral outfit. What?! Neutrals are a trend? We don’t usually think of neutrals as a trend, but a trend is generally a highlighted look that is at the forefront of fashion. So, OK, let’s call neutrals a spring trend!

There were lots of neutral and utility looks mixed in between all the color and patterns at the many spring fashion shows, so if you prefer neutral pieces, there are lots to choose from.

Of course, the beauty of neutrals is that everyone can wear them and you can mix neutral shades together almost any way you choose.

Here are some style tips and ideas for wearing neutral shades:

1. Try a neutral power suit
2. Combine textures like satin or silk with chunky knits
3. Add a pop of color–a belt, bag or scarf
4. Pair with denim–jeans, shirts, skirts
5. Add a touch of animal print (yes, animal prints are neutral, too!)
6. Go bold on accessories like earrings, bag or shoes
7. Combine with soft earth tones
8. Pair neutrals with camo print

Whew! There are so many possibilities!

For today’s outfit, I’m sharing a blend of many of the things listed above.

The Neutral Outfit

The Platform Sneakers

This outfit starts with these adorable animal print platform sneakers! I’ve been eyeing the many options for this print in sneakers and fell in love with these. They are a low-top platform with a nude background which works well for me, but there are many versions and all are so cute! And because animal prints are considered neutral, you can wear them with lots of different looks!

Here are some other versions of animal print platforms at various price points. All are highly rated!

The Utility Jacket

Many of the neutral fashions shown for spring and the rest of 2019 are in the “utility” style. As in utility vests and jackets. You can see those pieces styled in the post, Olive Utility Jacket and Striped Tee and Two Ways to Style a Utility Jacket. You’ll also see new versions featuring the utility style including dresses and jumpsuits this spring.

This tan version came in my last Trunk Club. Once again, seeing it folded up in the plastic bag didn’t inspire and I really didn’t intend to try it on. But lo’ and behold, once I did, I really like it! How many times have you heard me say that?!! Haha! Once again, my stylist has caused me to step outside my comfort zone and give try something new and unexpected. I decided it’s a keeper!

The Chinos and Sweater

Per the style tips above, it’s always a good idea to mix textures in a neutral outfit in order to create contrast and interest. Hence the textured sweater against the smooth chino pants.

 

On a recent trip to Loft (yes–to the actual store at the Mall!), I came across this chunky but lightweight tunic in cream. The open, boatneck style is so flattering! And a neutral sweater like this is something you can wear year-round. It would also be cute with leggings, due to the tunic length.

A pair of cream or tan-colored chinos is a versatile neutral to have in your wardrobe. The cropped length of these makes them perfect for spring and on into summer. And they contrast nicely with the texture in the sweater.

The Final Accessories

Tortoiseshell earrings are a nice contrast to the neutral tans and creams and these hoops go with almost everything. A tan or “griege” bag like this is a nice final touch with a slight contrast to the other pieces.

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Click on the image to see all the pieces in this outfit:

Are you sold on platform sneakers yet? As I mentioned in my last post, they are not the platforms of the past. They add just a bit of height and lots of style to your casual or not-s0-casual outfits. Try a pair and let me know what you think!