4 Expensive-Looking Colours Even Minimalists Will Want to Wear

In the world of fashion, colour can be surprisingly divisive. There are those who layer as many shades together as possible, whilst others forgo it completely. After spotting Rosie Huntington-Whiteley in a soft sage-green dress earlier this week, I knew it was time to embrace colour—with an expensive-looking twist. Through my research, I've found four colours that look expensive at any price point. 

It's safe to say that Rosie Huntington-Whiteley makes a case for sage green. 

As a devoted minimalist, I've spent years constructing a capsule wardrobe of foundation pieces that make for easy outfit combinations, even on those "I have nothing to wear" kind of days. But with such a focus on longevity, I've been guilty of staying within my grey-scale comfort zone. Though sticking to the basics can work for many, there's a particular joy that is expressed through colour, and this summer, I'm more eager than ever to explore new shades. Perhaps it is that my foundation pieces have been working hard through autumn, winter and spring, so it feels right to add a point of difference for the new season. With a pop of colour here and a dash of pastel there, a treasured capsule wardrobe looks completely brand new. Or maybe it's being surrounded by summertime, with yellow sunshine and blue waters encouraging me to look beyond the neutral tones I'm accustomed to.

But what's the trick to adding colour to your wardrobe? Well, there are two main steps. First, opt for pieces you are already drawn to. If you never wear miniskirts you're unlikely to rewear a miniskirt in a bold hue. Try your trust midi style in a brand-new hue, and I bet you'll pull it out time and again. If you're still unsure, start small. Be it a handbag, shoes or even sunglasses, a small change can make a big difference. Second, forget go hard or go home—you won't catch any fluoro neons or vivid shades in this list. There's a case to be made for every hue on the colour wheel, any of which can look expensive with the right cut and design, but I'm focused on one's that will easily integrate into a minimalist's wardrobe and look expensive doing it. These four fit the bill.

Ready to dip your toe into expensive-looking summer colours? Let's go. 

1. SAGE GREEN

Style Notes: It's safe to say that both Rosie and Emmanuelle make a great case for sage green. Both have styled their greens with complementary neutrals and accented with gold jewellery (note Rosie's anklet and Emmanuelle's necklace). 

SHOP SAGE GREEN:

2. MELLOW YELLOW

Style Notes: Meet the lightest of light yellows, mellow yellow. The blend with your neutrals will be incredibly discreet, but there's just enough difference to reflect the sunny days of summertime. 

SHOP MELLOW YELLOW:

3. SKY BLUE

Style Notes: Blue isn't a new colour for us minimalists, as you'll spot it in classic blue jeans. But this lighter hue is one we often overlook, despite it feeling particularly relevant during this blue-clad season. Think blue skies and blue seas for reference. 

SHOP SKY BLUE:

4. DARK ROSE

Style Notes: Barbie pink may be trending, but this soft hue feels more my speed. The deeper tones have a timeless feel, complemented by neutral accents like Monikh's white sandals. 

SHOP DARK ROSE:

Up next, Best Wardrobes in Britain: Davina Wedderburn