the stylist’s notebook | grey denim

Hi!  Love your site…

I am late to the skinny gray jean trend and find I need some help.  My wardrobe consists of lots of black and I thought incorporating some gray would be a nice change.  However, I find its tough to pull off gray without looking too drab or too grunge.  Any suggestions to keep the look fresh and chic?

Thanks from Los Angeles!

Grey skinnies truly are staples, second to the classic blue jean and/or black denim; they are pants of versatility with a Though grey is grouped with the likes of black and white as a classic color, in denim it possesses edgy unconventionalism. It has oftentimes been associated with rock ‘n roll or mild punk over the years, regardless of its ability to be worn with items other than vintage band tees and such music-related paraphernalia. Grey skinnies can be smartly androgynous or oh-so feminine; dressed up, or made quite casual. As with all denim the possibilities are endless – let not the color hold you back from experimenting as you would with blue denim!

Do keep in mind, however, that certain colors look especially lovely with greys: black, white, pinks, peachy-corals, murkier purples (brown & gray undertones), and Carolina and cornflower blues. As for shoes, opt for classic black or a dark, metallic silver.

♥

{dressed up & quite smart.}

I do so love the look created by a tailored, well-cut blazer over grey skinnies; somehow it makes the lines of the jacket much sharper – smarter even – especially when paired with oxfords, pumps, or dressy flats. This color denim does, however, limit the color palette in regards to the blazer: black and white look best with gray, whereas navy and creams become a trickier task that depends on the undertone (leanings toward a particular primary color) of the jacket’s color. Substitute a leather jacket for a more rock-chic vibe.

{girlish & feminine.}

Airy, sheer blouses work quite well with skinnies, as do smarter cuts. The above are samplings of cuts and colors that work especially well with grey: pink, dark lilac, and white & black.

{casual pinks.}

One of my favorite color combinations is grey and pink; the effect is a balance of girlish femininity and edginess made quite subdued. I simply adore this row of ensembles in particular. (Outfit No. 1) I am currently smitten with loose tees of any sort, particularly those that can be worn off the shoulder for a peek of the decolletage; the glitter, round-toe lace-up oxfords in athracite offer a clean, finishing touch to the casual ensemble. And they’re on my list of covetable shoes! (Outfit No. 2) I am in  l o v e  with this Wildfox sweatshirt; the print is so kitschy, and when paired with skinnies and black pumps, the effect is rather chic and sophisticated. And a tad sexy, of course. (Outfit No. 3) A peach color is so lovely and fresh against gray. And those booties. Are. Killer. (Outfit No. 4) A bright pink contrasts beautifully against all shades of gray!

{casual blues.}

Cornflower blues, in particular, look classic when paired with grey skinnies. Very much self-explanatory, non? And the sequined E. Ungaro tank to the left is to die for!

♥

bisous,

La C.

{Images courtesy of Net-a-Porter, Barneys, Chickdowntown, & Zu Shoes}