If I were to describe my style, I would say I sit somewhere between a minimalist and a maximalist. While I appreciate the power of brilliant basics—and they’re the building block to most of my outfits—I also love adding colour and print. If you tend to sway more towards the minimalist side, though, it can be trickier to incorporate brighter shades into your more tonal wardrobe. But what I’ve noticed on my feed lately, is that even the chicest women who rely only on classic separates are embracing a sprinkling of bold brights—and they’re all styling it in the exact same way: with one item.
Forget piling on clashing hues and mis-matched prints, minimalists have all decided that this year's winter outfits are going to include one look-at-me colourful piece— that single-handedly manages to give even the simplest of ensembles a whole new vibe. A styling trick anyone can try out, it can be as easy as adding a bright blue beanie to your timeless long black coat, a muted green scarf to your dinner outfit or swapping your trusty grey ‘just in case’ sweater to a bright pink version—and cleverly wearing around your shoulders as a scarf. And of course, there’s no need to break the age-old habit of adding a bag, shoes, or both, in a brighter colour than the rest of your outfit. Basically, the key to approaching colour this season is to stick to one item, in one colour and you can rest assured that it’ll look considered. The non-scary way to liven up winter, let me show you the five minimalists who have all been using this simple—yet very effective—styling trick to give a little something-something to their paired-back outfits.
5 Outfits That Prove Minimalists Can Wear Colour Too:
1. Bright Scarf + All Black
Style Notes: This is one of those winter-proof dinner outfits I can get on board with. With not too much bare skin braving the elements, I appreciate how Liv has added a cosy, bright scarf to make sure her all-black ensemble turns heads as soon as she turns up to the reservation.
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The viral grey M&S scarf cardigan now comes in olive—and yes, the scarf is detachable.
This minimalist wool jacket is too good to miss.
Add knee-high boots now it's chillier.
So chic with socks for party season.
2. Statement Knit + Tailored Trousers
Style Notes: Fair Isle and argyle knits always have a revival at this time of your—'tis the season for it, after all—but they're bigger than ever this year. Make like Marilyn and ensure yours is the centre of attention by going for a festive red iteration. Leave sequins to one side, instead, add to black separates for a sleek take on holiday dressing.
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The funnel neck on this one sells it to me.
Every fashion editor loves this pair.
The partywear shoe of the season.
The shape of these sets them apart from the rest.
3. Bright Hat + Denim
Style Notes: Classic jeans? Check. Floor-sweeping black wool coat? Check. Leather gloves and loafers? Check. Now the only way to top this effortless everyday outfit is with a beanie that'll turn heads. Making your winter wooly the standout item is the key to adding a hint of colour.
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Cashmere = extra cosy.
We all know this iconic coat by now.
No outfit should be without these this year.
Agolde's jeans are some of the best out there.
4. Classic Jacket + Bright Bag
Style Notes: At this time of year, there's no leaving the house without a coat of some kind, but that doesn't mean you can't liven it up. The simplest—and one of the most effective—ways to add colour to your outerwear is by adding a bright bag. I keep seeing so many red styles already this season, and it's definitely one of the handbag colour trends to invest in for AW25.
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A showerproof coat that looks this good? Sold.
A bold bag is the easiest way to add colour.
All about that neckline.
I always rate & Other Stories denim.
5. 'Just In Case' Jumper + Tonal Two-Piece
Style Notes: At this time of year I always put a 'just in case' jumper in my tote bag, but I'm going to start wearing it after seeing this outfit. Choosing a fun coloured version like Chloe, instead of my usual grey style, I'll be styling it instead of a scarf considering how much it lifts an otherwise neutral outfit.
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Who needs a scarf?
You can't beat M&S cashmere on the high street.
The sleek base to so many winter looks.
I have this pair in black and they're my ultimate favourite tall boots.
