The non-pink wearer’s guide to wearing pink

For the past 15 years I have been a self professed pink hater. I’m not sure whether it was the shade itself or the “girlyness” it represents, but I very rarely wore it.

Something happened to me this spring. I saw a whispery soft pink top in a store and thought “Ooh, I like.” This revelation immediately shocked me. Pink?! Me?! And soft, petal pink of all pinks?! WHAT?!

Well, I tried it on. It was the same color as my skin. Not a good look. But, it hasn’t stopped me. I’m still liking pinks and florals this season, they are a trend afterall. So, I was determined to come up with a way to incorporate bits and pieces of pinks and florals this year to feminize and freshen up my wardrobe.  Here is my little guide to wearing pink for those who are not “pinkies.”

Coral
To me, coral is a good stepping off point into the world of pink. It’s kind of orangey, while still being feminine. I’ve been seeing it everywhere lately and think its a super fun color for summer. Although I am decidedly not one of those people who say they can’t wear a certain color (wear what you want people – paleness be damned!), it can be a tricky color to pull off for some complexions. Try it under a gray or beige cardigan or with a great jacket.

Wear a pink accessory with a tougher look
I’ve had this rosey scarf for years, and it has been living in a bag under my bed for just about as many years. But, I was inspired to wear it in a way I never would have before. I love my military / Sgt. Pepper jacket and thought this scarf gives it a bit of femininity. To be safe, pink is scary afterall, I paired it with dark skinny jeans, a gray tank and black shoes / bag. I like the dichotomy of a hard look with a soft edge.

Flower power!
Ross and I had our engagement photos done, thanks to Sharyn Peavey Photography, and I really wanted to look soft and bridal, while still keeping in mind my personal style. I went with dark skinny jeans, neutral flats and a sweet lace jacket. But, the outfit needed something else, so I popped this ginormo pink silk flower pin in my hair and I loved how it turned out. It added a romantic quality while still allowing me to look like myself.

Balance it with a “safe” (non-pink) color
When all else fails, wear black. I love the romantic floral print on this top, set off by black in the background. I also love that I feel like I’m in a cantina in southern Texas in the 1950′s. Maybe that’s just me. Anywho, I can feel comforted knowing that though I’m wearing a soft feminine style, I still have my safe haven in the background.

To my fellow fearers of pink, I challenge you to wear the scariest of all shades this summer. Dive in to the world of roses and mauves, salmon and watermelon. Just don’t do it in a Juicy Couture track suit.