Why I Switched to a Neutral Wardrobe…and the Results Were SHOCKING!

If you’ve been with me for awhile, you know that I used to show outfits with bright, bold colors and prints. But when I looked back at those photos, I thought the bright colors and bold prints were making me look older than I already am. So I gradually started shifting my wardrobe to a neutral color palette…and the results were SHOCKING.

While I expected the neutral colors to be more flattering against my skin, what I did NOT expect was how limiting my wardrobe to one generally extended color palette exponentially increased the number of outfits I was able to create. By mixing and matching neutral color wardrobe pieces, I am able to create an almost limitless number of outfits. This “stretches my closet”…and the money that I put into buying those wardrobe pieces.

Remember, the key is to embrace your own unique beauty and let neutral colors enhance rather than overshadow it. Experiment with different shades, textures, and styles until you find the combinations that make YOU feel confident and beautiful in your own midlife skin.

– Valarie

Why a Neutral Color Palette Wardrobe?

Neutral tones have a magical ability to enhance our features and allow our inner radiance to glow, allowing our natural midlife beauty to show through. Let’s explore how wearing neutral colors can elevate your style and empower you to embrace your unique beauty. Here are some tips:

Camel Crewneck Sweater (almost sold out – I am looking for a similar sweater as of 5:50am) + Camel Satin Slip Dress + Mary Jane Ballet Flats + Beige Handbag = Neutral Dinner Outfit

1. Choose the RIGHT Neutrals

Opt for neutral shades that complement your skin tone and hair color. This will help enhance your natural features rather than overpowering them. For example, if you have warm undertones, go for earthy tones like beige, camel, or warm greys. If you have cool undertones, choose cooler neutrals like taupe, dove grey, or soft blues.

Gray Coatigan + Denim Shirt + Black Slimming Jeans + Black Loafers + Black Handbag = Everyday Neutral Outfit

2. Play With Textures

Incorporate different textures into your neutral outfits to add depth and interest. Mixing fabrics like silk, linen, cashmere, or satin can elevate your look and draw attention to the textures rather than just the color. Consider wearing a silk blouse with a cashmere cardigan or a satin skirt with a textured knit sweater.

Camel Dolman Sweater + Camel Trousers + Beige Pumps = Neutral Office Outfit (or Neutral Dinner Outfit)

3. Don’t Be Overly Concerned with Fit

While the standard fashion industry advice is “choose well-fitted clothing flatters your shape and size”, I would not be too concerned with this. What I’ve actually found is the opposite: wearing slightly loose-fitting sweaters and pants conveys an aura of effortless style…as if you just threw on something and headed out the door but still look fabulous. (Think of Carolyn Bessette Kennedy’s style in this regard!)

Amazon Striped Cardiagn (J. Crew sells a similar cardigan for over $100 more) + Black Wrinkle Free Skirt + Mary Jane Ballet Flats + Black Handbag = Elegant Neutral Outfit

4. Accessorized Strategically…and Thoughtfully

Choose accessories that enhance your natural beauty and complement your neutral outfit. Consider wearing delicate jewelry, such as dainty necklaces or earrings, that add a touch of elegance without overpowering your look. Opt for neutral-toned bags and shoes to maintain a cohesive and understated appearance. Think twice about statement or oversized jewelry…it can add age to your look.

Long Cardigan or Coatigan (wearing Deep Apricot) + Black Jumpsuit + On Cloud Sneakers (the only running shoes I will wear!) + Underseat Suitcase = Airplane Outfit

5. Emphasize Natural Makeup

I know this sounds strange coming from me when I wear heavy lashes and eye makeup in the videos. The truth is that I only wear that makeup for the camera so that I don’t look washed out. My daily makeup routine takes 3 minutes or less. I use a cream makeup that is perfect for midlife skin because it sits on top of my fine lines and wrinkles rather than settling into those areas like liquid makeup. The result is a radiant, natural glow. Let me know if you would like more information on the makeup!

Remember, the key is to embrace your own unique beauty and let neutral colors enhance rather than overshadow it. Experiment with different shades, textures, and styles until you find the combinations that make YOU feel confident and beautiful in your own midlife skin.

Camel Coatigan + Black Wrinkle Free Pants + Ballet Flats = Neutral Travel Outfit

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17 thoughts on “Why I Switched to a Neutral Wardrobe…and the Results Were SHOCKING!

  1. Hi,
    I would love to hear about the cream makeup you use. Might you be able to link to the suitcase in the last image?
    Thanks,
    Kim

    1. Oh geez – that’s my husband’s Swiss Army carryon that he has had for years. I just borrowed it for the photo. Sent you an email about makeup. ZERO sales pressure by let me know if I can answer any questions.

    2. Good morning. I would love the cream makeup information. I would also appr3 Kate seeing color examples for cooler skin tones.
      Thank you.

  2. Would also love to hear more about your face and eye make up. Difficult to find just the right neutrals for 60yr old + skin. You always look beautiful and not overly done. Thank you.

  3. Absolutely loving your philosophy on wardrobe. Looking forward to a more versatile and flexible closet with fewer items at age 68! I’ve always stayed away from beige with my blond highlighted hair, but I think I should give it a try because you look fabulous and elegant.

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