As much as Chris DeBurgh was an advocate for it, being a ‘lady in red’ comes naturally for some, challenging for others; jumping from madly flattering to frighteningly intimidating in 0.01 seconds without a little intellect applied. It’s really the underdog of versatile colours. Yes, she’s got a slightly bratty, attention-seeking reputation, but applying a little daring can eventuate into a wild ride that pays off. Valentino built an entire empire on the shade: who are we to question? You can crack the code with a few tips and tricks applied. Read on for our guide to shopping in the red zone (and hopefully come out with a little change).
1. Base tones
Red in itself is a bit of a split personality. You’ll usually sit in either a warm (yellow toned) camp, or cool (blue toned), depending on your skin tone and hair colour. Olive skins and darker hair tones generally sit best in the warm camp, whilst lighter skin tones and hair (blondes and redheads) fair better with cooler reds to fan down any potential ruddy flames. Take a look at your existing colour spectrum to get the hint. Can you comfortably wear warmer tones like browns, oranges and yellows, or brighter, cool jewel tones like magenta, royal blue, bright purple and black? Following your existing leads maps out what clique of crimson to start with.
Not quite ready to splash? No mind – try a hot-headed heel against an all-black outfit to get in the mood. Fire engine tones may take the lead here, but don’t discount burgundy or merlot shades as an alternative (we’re never one to say no to anything wine-inspired after all).
Givenchy Nadia sandals in red leather, $726.15
Net-a-porter.com
Manning Cartell heels, $499
Manningcartell.com.au
PrettyBallerinas Rosario Red Suede Flats, $275.00
prettyballerinas.com.au
Balenciaga Classic metallic-edge leather envelope clutch, $1,530
matchesfashion.com
3. Colour clash
Feeling adventurous? Show red who’s boss and clash it against cool, bold block colours. Poppy cobalt Santorini-style blues sit surprisingly comfortably against fiery reds. For something a little more unexpected, try burgundy against soft pinks. Oh-so-wrong-but-right.
Maison Margiela wool skirt, approx. $600
Mytheresa.com
Closed silk blouse, approx. $248
Mytheresa.com
Le Ciel Blue classic sleeveless blouse, approx. $250.52
Farfetch.com
Carven high-waisted wool-blend midi skirt, $665.95
Matchesfashion.com
4. Silhouette
Keep the rest of your outfit minimal when opting for bold block colour. Tricky silhouettes (think volume, ruffles and the like) and red have a track history of warring against one another. Simple, clean lines are paramount to enforcing a modern feel, otherwise you may find yourself unintentionally re-living an ‘80s moment.
Etro Stretch-crepe tapered pants, $363.07
Net-a-porter.com
caslazur.com
5. Prints
An abstract print in red is a faultless kicking-off point should you be a novice to the colour. Here’s where you meet a fork in the road: graphic or femme? Whatever route, keep it simple with your accessories and let your motif walk the walk.
Veronika Maine printed jumpsuit, $259
Veronikamaine.com.au
6. Splice It
As camera-ready as a bold block red is, it’s not adverse to a little mix’n’match. Try a spliced red back with neutrals or clashed tones in the one piece for a tone-down.
Duffy Two-tone cashmere sweater, $238.83
Net-a-porter.com
Cue stripe satin pencil skirt, $169
Cue.cc
7. Swimwear
The only lobster red welcome on the sand is in swimwear form. The perfect way to quite literally dive in on this shade – and all the more reason to slip slop slap (red on red in the form of sunburn is never ideal).
I.D. Sarrieri Jezebel backless swimsuit, $341.28
Net-a-porter.com
Piha Solid Separates Twin Straps Sport Top and Gathered Brazilian Pant – $43.99 and $34.99
pihaswimwear.com
8. Texture Play
Red adores texture, too. Try a lace to liven the mood should you be a seasoned red devotee. All the work wrapped up in one for you. A simple neutral accessory palette and you’re done.
