SS 2014 trend: Pretty pastels
updated the 7 October 2015 à 00:04
Ditch the neons and opt for soft and feminine pastel shades this summer. Here are a few tips on how to rock this trend…
As evident at the recent SS14 shows, this season sees muted hues dominating the runways and many celebrity wardrobes replacing neons. Seen prominently at Mulberry and Burberry Prorsum (photo) presentations, the ‘girly’ hues take a sophisticated makeover for summer and are a far cry from being ‘princess-y’ or saccharine-loaded. Commonly associated with a fresh, youthful and feminine image, pastels can be incorporated in the minimalist look, or married with lace, and is definitely a trend not to miss out on.
While the subtle shades are perfect for giving off the dainty and graceful vibe, be careful as these hues can go horribly wrong if overdone. A little too much and one would look like they just stepped out of a dessert table!
But as usual, we’re here to dish out some essential tips on how to work this subtle trend in the best way possible.
The look: Unless you are heading for a dessert-themed costume party, avoid piling on too many different pastel hues in one outfit. Pick at most two of your favourite pastel shades and wear them against neutral tones for a subtle feminine vibe. For a more playful and daring look, pair the pastels with vibrant colours but keep within the same colour scheme.
The silhouette: Lay off the tulle and puffy skirt, and steer clear from a rounded silhouette for fear of looking like a cupcake. Opt for a long and clean cut silhouette to portray the modern and mature woman. This can be achieved through pencil skirts, structured blazers or body-con dresses.
Details: The flawless harmony of lace and pastels exudes youth and feminity simultaneously like no other. To effortlessly portray maturity and elegance, a lace body-con maxi dress of a pastel shade will do the trick. A more casual option would be a simple shift dress with embroidery in pastel paired with ballet flats.
In accessories
The jewellery: Nothing gives of the dainty vibe better than jewellery with pastel tassels. Pair them with anything from a white boyfriend shirt with distressed jean to a classic LBD; the pastel tassels will do wonders in adding a graceful touch to any outfit.
The shoes: As if pastel hues are not subtle enough, it is pertinent to think big when injecting pastel hues through footwear. Finish off a neutral look with a pair of pastel stilettos or ankle strap pumps and voila! Pastel perfect! Adding it as a final touch to an outfit that features a complementary vibrant shade will also help soften the image and achieve a balanced look.
The bag: Creates a youthful look that is sure to turn heads. For maximum contrast, a black structured coat or overalls will work best at keeping the attention on the pretty pastel on your arm, while looking chic at the same time.
Annabelle Chew
