How to wear autumn colours with confidence and joy

I’ve always adored autumn. Like spring, it’s a new beginning. Whilst certain parts of nature go to sleep, other aspects awaken, and the colours are warm and embracing.

Until a few years ago, I could wear autumn colours and knew it suited me, but since the tresses have gone naturally silver, my skin tone has turned from gold to a paler shade to synchronise the maturing process – notice I don’t mention ageing process, chuckles…

So, I tend to wear cooler shades to enhance this metamorphosis as it would be sacrilege to not go with the flow. Striving to be the best version of us in this chrysalis process of years marching on and endeavouring to cope with it joyfully is our job as we deserve to feel fabulous.

Okay, not always so jolly, right? Every time I see a new line on my face or body, I give it a talking to and then find a way to either cover it up or deal with it organically. Then I decide to embrace it as it’s part of my story and don’t we love stories, the true gems in our crowns.

Okay, some stories we might never wish to share but suffice it to say we come from tough stock. We went to parties, got home late, often having walked home in high heels, and still showed up for work on time! Take that, whippersnappers, hie…

I know many women over sixty are in the same boat about having to change their preferred colour choices, but we will not let it get us down! I see it as an opportunity to update and upgrade the wardrobe, after all, acquiring a new item to complement our existing pieces always feels like a special occasion, right?

Autumn colours are big again, almost as strong as the trends of the Sixties and early Seventies. I saw this in the autumn and winter fashion trends from Europe, especially animal prints in earthy shades of brown. I do find some of those stronger shades less flattering now.

Do not despair. Not keen to ditch those hues which no longer bring out the best in our appearance? Add a colour that flatters your complexion closest to your face. Looking great in pink, red, green or blue colour palettes? Add a scarf to elevate the look and don’t forget a pretty lip colour to gloss it up further. It immediately glamorises the deeper earthy shades.

Style transcends fashion and colouring autumn in shades that make us shine not only invites plenty compliments, but it also uplifts our spirits. Feeling great equals looking gorgeous.

Still love that earthy animal print but not the darker browns so much? Select print shades that tone in better with your skin, as in my case, I’ve found the grey, marble, beige, and black hues are more flattering. I’m not always in the mood for a scarf or colourful accessories to elevate the fifty shades of autumn, so, getting my colours right for the capsule outfit works a charm.

Black and white styling is often my go to when in doubt. Add sophisticated accessories, and the look is ageless. Think Coco Chanel, and the look seems effortlessly chic.

Jewel colours are here to stay for a long time, and I adore brightening up the dullest day and mood. If you love those pops of joyous colours, don’t be afraid of mixing them up. Pulling the look together with a plain, statement piece in a neutral colour, works for any season.

Mixing hues of the same colour will also create depth to an outfit, such as neutral shades in winter white, tan, and marble. In the mood for something feminine? Add a softer shade of pink, our rules, our choices.

I have always loved olive green but have discovered it no longer loves me, ouch. So, there is always a way when there is a will. I now wear pink or red pieces closest to my face, allowing the deep olive shade to form the foundation of a sophisticated outfit. Sage green would work too, creating an interesting layering of deep to softer hues to flatter the skin tone.

Shades of mocha are mostly warming but as the colour at times might pale the complexion, I add a vibrant aqua scarf or wrap, et voila, I feel fabulous.

For daily style ideas, pop over to my IG style page, @Tilly_thegoodlife_style or my monthly lifestyle blog about the charms, and ups and downs, of life, entertainment, travel, and style at www.tillythegoodlife.blog – hope you like it.

I’ve styled some pieces to enhance our autumn in all its guises for some ideas to play with your wardrobe, and to encourage you to choose key new items to beautify your autumn style. Shine your gorgeous light, ladies, you deserve it!

Most items are from my wardrobe, with favoured Australian labels including, Fella Hamilton, Witchery, and Decjuba for ageless elegance.