I Never Wear Color—But These Outfits Make Me Want To

Okay, maybe the word never is an overstatement, but unfortunately the title "I Don’t Wear Color Often, and When I Do It’s Usually Paired With Jeans or Neutrals" just didn’t have the same ring to it. Plus, I think you all get the point. Nonetheless, it’s true. As evidenced by my not one but two Instagram accounts, a pop of color is more of a surprising delight than a regular occurrence in my wardrobe, and when I do muster up the strength to purchase and wear something more out-there than my usual rotation of denim, black, and white, I tend to take the safest route and pair the piece with neutrals and/or jeans because, quite frankly, I’m scared to try it any other way.

The five girls you’re about to see below, however, are not. They’re actually so good at wearing and pairing colors, they could (and possibly should?) teach a class on it. They’ve even inspired me to take one of the below outfits for a spin—once I own enough colorful items to make it physically possible, of course. To see the looks that have me wanting to step outside my box, plus shop some vibrant pieces along the way, just keep scrolling.

Nnenna is always opting for statement outerwear, and I can't help but want in. For an easy foray into color, pair a coat and top in the same family with white denim. 

While my first instinct would be to style a tangerine dress with a neutral such as beige, I love how it looks with an equally eye-catching blazer. 

I'm suddenly reconsidering all of my all-black wedding guest outfits.

The infusion of green takes simple suit and turns it into a street style–worthy outfit.

Emili Sindlev is especially good at reminding us that colorful accessories can be just as versatile as neutral ones. Here she is again pairing an unexpected bright blue bag with an orange knit and green pants. 

I would have never thought yellow Manolos would look so good with a pink T-shirt and blue shorts, but here we are.

It's unclear whether I'll ever be cool enough to coordinate my hair with my outfits, too, so for now, I'll just stick to copying Michelle's eye-catching clothing color combos.

I'm starting to sense that tie-dye looks best when paired with any color that's already within the print.

Simply adding a colorful dress to your rotation can change your entire summer vibe.

Notice how her graphic tee ties all the other elements of her outfit together. Genius.

Up next? All the under-$100 items in my cart RN.