This year, they’ve called it for Viva Magenta, a vibrant and powerful shade of red. Sitting on the hotter end of the colour spectrum, it’s punchy, bold and energetic. We’re down to drop some magenta into our wardrobes but we’re not quite done with blue yet.
Blue chills out on the cooler end of the spectrum with green and purple. As A Colourful Dose of Optimism author Jules Standish explains, these cooler colours have shorter wavelengths of light which has a more calming effect on the senses. It checks out for blue, a colour of trust, serenity and peace.
Along with being a comforting colour, blue is also associated with loyalty, integrity, intelligence and confidence. Studies suggest it can even lower blood pressure and boost creativity. (See why we’re not letting it go from our wardrobes?)
One of the great things about wearing blue is how versatile you can be with it. You can keep things subtle with a pale tone, combining it with neutrals like beige or white. You can go big with a bright shade like royal or electric blue. Or you can layer it with other cool colours for an extra-calming outfit.
We could keep going on about it or we could just send some inspiration your way. If you also want to add a bit more blue to your wardrobe, these are some of our favourite pieces.
Autark
Autark
A set that really embodies blue’s cool and calm reputation. The relaxed fit of both pieces adds to the laidback look and the soft shade is great for mixing and matching with other dark or light tones.
Esse Studios
Documented By: RIISE
Esse Studios
Blue is a dependable and trustworthy shade, which is why it shows up in so many workplaces. But wearing it for your 9 to 5 doesn’t have to be boring. Case and point, this shirt from Esse Studios. The cobalt shade is commanding and confident, with sleeves that add a playful extra element.
Van Der Kooij
Van Der Kooij
There’s a reason this dress featured in our first cover story shoot. Made from 100 per cent silk with a figure-hugging cut, we could honestly stare at that dreamy shade of blueberry all day.
UNIKSPACE
Documented By: RIISE
UNIKSPACE
The jumpsuit that will put a smile on your face and help you float through the day. Seriously, the calming shade of this one-piece might actually be a tonic for stress and anxiety.
Jillian Boustred
Documented By: RIISE
Jillian Boustred
Jillian Boustred’s powder blue Safari Jumpsuit has a similar stress resistance but the cut gives this one a bolder edge. With a pair of wedges and that adjustable belt cinched in, it’s big serene but self-assured energy.
Esse Studios
Documented By: RIISE
Esse Studios
The dress that will have you channelling Cardi B’s confidence at this year’s Grammy’s. Esse Studio’s bestselling cobalt coloured dress is bright and beautiful – without going overboard.
Del Villar
Documented By: RIISE
Del Villar
Del Villar has an ongoing love affair with a certain hue called cyan, often brought to life in the brand’s trademark silk and linen blend (which is what these pants are made from). Sitting somewhere between blue and green, this shade packs such a fun punch, which is why it’s one of our party favourites.
Del Villar
Documented By: RIISE
Del Villar
The same goes for Del Villar’s Sonic Dress in cyan. Though it’s technically the same shade as the Astral Pant, it’s made from bamboo jersey so feels a bit more versatile. If you like the shinier effect of the silk-linen blend, the Galactico Dress has a similar cut.