Introduction
Spring/summer is renowned for being the time of year where men become much more experimental with their colour choices. Free from the shackles of dreary weather and dark, long nights, the warm weather and beating sun provide the platform for us to demonstrate a wider and more vibrant palette. Current industry influences back up this new, confident approach, with striking shades of orange and pink trending alongside neon and fluorescent hues. Even an old menswear favourite, blue, has been given a contemporary makeover for SS13, with the go-to shades coming in the form of vivid cobalt and aqua. However, these colours are not suitable for every personal style or taste, and often alternative hues build a cult following under the radar; typically after appearing in multiple brand campaigns and on street style blogs around the world – such is the power of the internet these days. With this in mind, we have identified three alternative colours you may want to consider as we transition into the high summer months this year…
1. Mint Green
Pastel hues are a perennial favourite during spring/summer. Subtler than their bold orange/pink/red/cobalt counterparts, light and dusty shades are, arguably, slightly more refined and wearable. Mint green has built a strong presence within the industry for SS13, appearing in campaigns from high street giants like H&M and Next as well as designer brands such as HE By Mango and Ted Baker. Perfect for those men in search of a summer-appropriate colour that retains a sense of masculinity (thanks to its green base tone), it complements other classic neutral shades like navy, khaki and brown wonderfully.
Lookbook Inspiration
Colour Guidelines
Key Styles: Anything and everything. This is a colour that works just as well for tailoring as it does for shorts and t-shirts. If applied to tailoring or trousers, treat them as a statement pieces; pair with neutrals and let them become the focal point of your outfit. Consider: Statement shoes or accessories. Mint green footwear will instantly take any simple jeans and t-shirt combination to the next level. Drivers or boat shoes are perfect for the high summer season, whereas a pair of suede trainers will add a street style touch to an ensemble. In terms of accessories, mint green socks, a lightweight scarf or even a snap back can inject a touch of standout style to your look. Used as an accent, it is a colour that can bring an outfit to life without overpowering it. Note: Make sure you read our introduction to colour guide so that you understand the terms used below and throughout the article today. Similar Colours (Easiest To Pair): Yellow and blue. Contrasting Colours (Harder To Pair): Shades of purple or orange. Complementary Colours (Hardest To Pair): Shades of red and pink. Recommended Combinations: Although all the colours above can work if you carefully consider strength and tone, in our opinion, mint green looks best when matched with khaki and shades of blue.
Key Pieces
- Selected Homme Percy – Suit Jacket – Green
- Ted Baker Renepp – Crew Sweater With Ribbing
- Reiss Eclipse Mid Length Mac Yellow
- He By Mango Slim-fit Cotton Shirt
- Reclaimed Vintage T-shirt With Tie-dye Print
- Car Shoe Suede Driving Shoes
- Vans Chukka Boot
Final Word
So there you have a quick guide to three alternative colours you should be considering for high summer 2013. Although they weren’t directly advocated by high fashion houses during the global SS13 fashion weeks, retailers and the streets have pushed these hues into the limelight and made them a legitimate option for those men looking to separate themselves from the crowd. Now we want to hear what you think:
- Would you ever consider any of these colours?
- What key pieces do you already own?
- Will you be adding any of these colours to your wardrobe this year?
- What is your alternative colour suggestion for high summer 2013?
Let us know in the comments section below…
