The column of color outfit: an easy formula for effortless chic

If you want to feel put-together with a minimum of fuss, a column of color outfit is an easy option for an effortless and chic look. Today I’m sharing some outfit ideas using a column of color as a starting point.

Outfit ideas using a column of color

If you’ve been following my Effortless Style series, you may recall my recent post about 6 simple style formulas for creating effortless outfits. Of all those, I think using a column of color is one of the most easy and foolproof.

While all black is a popular “column” option, really any neutral or color can work. The top and bottom halves don’t have to match exactly but should be close enough so that the eye doesn’t register a horizontal “stopping point.”

Above, I’ve started with a navy + darker denim base, and added interest with a textured sweater jacket and long stone necklace (gifted). Sizes: jacket (Petite Small), jeans (28). (I think this sweater jacket has turned out to be a very good buy! See more sweater jackets here.)

A dress or jumpsuit is another way to get that column of color effect. A suit (or jacket/pants) is another option: the jacket + pants or skirt create the column. The idea is to create a long, unbroken vertical line with color.

If you’re petite like I am (5’1″), a column of color outfit can have a slimming and lengthening effect. This even works with more relaxed fit styles as I’m wearing above and below. Sizes above: blazer (Small), hoodie (XS/S), jeans (27).

Here are a couple of previous outfits that utilize the column of color formula:

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Do you use the column of color concept when putting outfits together?

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