How to start wearing colour, by someone who knows!
Starting your colour journey can feel daunting, especially if you have not worn colour for a long time, or perhaps ever. Many of my clients tell me they have lived in black for years. Even when they can see the clear difference colour makes to their radiance and confidence, taking that first step can still feel uncomfortable.
Moving from daily all-black outfits to a wardrobe full of bright colour is not realistic, and it is not the goal. I am not a strict or judgemental colour analyst. What we wear is often layered with meaning. Our style choices can reflect where we are in our relationship with ourselves.
This does not mean that everyone who avoids colour lacks confidence. Not at all. But if you are reading this, there may be a small part of you that recognises your choices have sometimes been made from uncertainty rather than intention.
My role as a colour analyst is to make this process feel supportive and personal. Colour analysis should be a lower pressure, person-centred experience that honours your individual story, not overrides it.
Taking your colour journey step by step is far more realistic than trying to transform everything overnight. Small shifts create lasting change. You do not need to reach the final stage to benefit. Even introducing colour in a gentle, manageable way can begin to change how you feel.
How do I know? Because colour has played a significant role in how I feel about myself too.
Below is a simple visual guide to help you begin bringing colour into your wardrobe in a way that feels authentic and achievable.
If you are an all-black wearer, this outfit may look very familiar. This is a no-shame space. If you love wearing black, please keep doing so.
But if part of you is curious about introducing colour, this is where the journey can begin.
Swapping some of the black for white or cream instantly creates interest without feeling overwhelming.
It still feels safe and polished, but lighter and more intentional. This is a higher contrast look, so it may suit some people more than others, but it is a gentle and realistic first step away from all black.
Swapping out a trusty black coat can feel daunting. We have often been told that black goes with everything and is always the most flattering option. In reality, that is not always the case.
Rather than jumping straight into something bright, consider a flattering neutral in your palette. Camel, navy, olive, chocolate or soft grey can be just as versatile, but far more enhancing.
This is a bigger step, but it makes a noticeable difference. You may also find it works beautifully with the clothes you already own
Before introducing bold colour into your clothing, try adding a few accessories in a shade you like but do not feel intimidated by.
Earrings, a scarf, a handbag, or even a small bag charm can introduce colour in a low-pressure way. These small details can have more impact than you expect.
As your comfort with colour grows, you might feel ready to try trainers or shoes in a new shade.
If this feels very new, there is no need to invest heavily straight away. There are plenty of affordable options that allow you to experiment without pressure.
At this stage, I would recommend keeping to one colour across your accessories so the look feels cohesive rather than busy.
Once you start receiving compliments, and you likely will, it can feel natural to experiment further.
Adding a second colour through accessories is still a manageable way to expand your confidence. Two colours together can look fresh and considered. Choose shades you genuinely love so it feels personal rather than forced.
Introducing colour into your clothing is a confident and exciting step.
Swapping a white T-shirt for a red cardigan, for example, instantly adds warmth and impact while still feeling wearable. At this point, colour is no longer an accessory. It becomes part of your expression.
And that is often when people begin to feel the biggest shift.
