This post on power color is part of The Five Must-Have Pieces for Your Work Wardrobe series.
Lani’s power colors are burgundy and red-orange. But lately she’s been sprinkling in some Barbie pink!
What is a power color? A color that makes you feel bold and confident. One that garners compliments every time you wear it. You power color should make you glow as it enhances your skin, eye, and hair colors. And as you can see from our examples, you can have more than one power color!
When is it essential to wear your power color(s)? Any time you need an extra boost of confidence. Think first dates, important meetings, and any form of presentation. People pay more attention to what you say when you wear color.
Kyle in her power colors: burgundy, red-orange, and raspberry pink. Yes, we coincidentally have some of the same power colors because we are both Earths!
Which brings us to the most important occasion to wear your power color: every time you are on screen. Yes, we are talking about Zoom! If you are on Zoom (or television, like some of our clients) day in and day out, all of your appearances should feature you starring in one of your power colors. And in that case, you certainly need multiple power colors!
How to Find Your Power Color
How do you figure out your power color? Try on all the colors in your closet and see which ones make your eyes sparkle, hair shine, and skin glow, even when you’re not wearing makeup. Still not sure? Wear a different color from your closet every day and tally the compliments.
Don’t have enough colors to try on in your closet? Go to a store, place an online order, or raid a friend’s closet for more options. Still not sure or short on time? Hire a personal stylist!
Jewel tones such as emerald green, ruby red, amethyst purple, and sapphire blue are universally flattering colors. Keep reading for additional tips and specific shopping suggestions.
Happy (Power Color) Shopping!
Argent
We’re always looking for high-quality, power color blazers for our clients. Argent delivers these in spades, with an added dose of functionality. They also sell the matching power color pants as separates.
Argent was the first women’s Ready-to-Wear (RTW) line we saw with inside pockets on jackets and credit card pockets on pants. (Lani has been waiting to pull the trigger on the Argent Crossover Blazer in Magenta for years!)
Argent Peak Lapel Blazer in Seasonless Wool, $495
Agent Slim Blouse in Silk Twill, $250
Argent Wide Leg Trouser in Seasonless Wool, $275
Calvin Klein
Calvin Klein brand tops, suiting, and classic sheath dresses can be found in many flattering colors and fabrics. Macy’s, one of our favorite places to shop for affordable suiting, carries the Calvin Klein brand in a wide size range. Buyer beware! Only enter a department store with a clear idea of what brands you like and a shopping list. Otherwise, you will more than likely end up completely overwhelmed.
Calvin Klein Women’s Foldover-Neck Front-Slit Sheath Dress in Regatta, $89.98 and in sizes 14W-24W
Halogen
Halogen is Nordstrom’s in-house label, described as “affordable work-to-weekend.” And that they are! These versatile pieces are always available in a seasonal range of colors and patterns. It is not uncommon for us to find “the perfect top” and purchase it in 3-4 colors for a client. We also appreciate being able to shop the same exact styles no matter the client’s size.
Halogen Raw Edge Tank in Indigo Bunting, $49
Lands’ End
Lands’ End is one of our favorite brands for their combination of affordability, comfort, and size range. Sizes can range from 00P to 30W, depending upon the item. Most pieces are machine washable too, a major bonus for moms of humans and pets.
Lands’ End 3/4 Flutter Sleeve Crepe Blouse in Dark Cobalt Blue, $44.95 (Available in sizes up to 26W)
Mango
If you’re looking for an affordable, trendy suit right now, try Mango. The fast-fashion retailer has done a great job creating work-friendly options that don’t read too young. We also appreciate the steps Mango is taking towards sustainability.
Mango Double-breasted Suit Blazer in Fuchsia, $129.99
MM.LaFleur
MM.LaFleur makes polished, powerful clothing that works whether you’re headed to the boardroom or working from home. Previously known for more formal work clothes, they have knocked it out of the park with their new, more casual offerings. But I had to show you this fabulous red dress!
MM.LaFleur Malala Dress in Rhubarb, $195
The Shirt
The Shirt is a favorite of many women, especially those that struggle with finding button-downs to accommodate larger bust sizes. Available in dozens of colors in both cotton and a drapey poly-crepe, this is a staple for those who love the effortless style of a collared shirt.
The Shirt Signature Shirt in Turquoise, $98
Theory
Theory is not just for “basics” anymore! You can now find your perfect fit in a royal purple or bright fuchsia. Well-fitting, well-made clothes never get old. Nor do the same clothes in fabulous colors. I couldn’t be more thrilled with this new fashion direction.
Theory Etiennette Wool Blazer, $475
Theory Treeca Wool Crop Trousers, $275
Tuckernuck
Tuckernuck is a go-to brand for a segment of our clientele. You find the styles that fit and pounce when a color or pattern you like comes out. Trust us, you won’t be sorry. Tuckernuck is a dream for most of us who just need a cute dress in a great color to wear to a party or out on a Saturday night. Go all out and grab the matching earrings to your adorable, brightly colored dress!
Pomander Place Dunmore Green Crepe Kenzo Dress, $128
Tuckernuck Jewelry Kelly Green Silk and Leather Orchid Earrings, $68
Vince Camuto
Another more affordable brand carried at most major department stores, Vince Camuto always has a mix of great basics and fun, trendy blouses and jackets. Their faux-satin blouses are some of our clients’ favorites for their great colors and flattering v-necks.
Vince Camuto Rumple Fabric Blouse in Hot Pink, $59 (Available in sizes up to 3X)
What are your favorite power color brands and pieces? Let us know in the comments!
Real Life Style is a style consulting firm that teaches busy women to wear their power so they can live their lives fully and confidently. Lani Inlander and Kyle Dunphy are based in the Washington, D.C. metropolitan area and serve clients across the country. We offer personal styling services, an on-demand e-course, corporate services, and training to become a personal stylist.
Once in a while, you can find Lani Inlander and Real Life Style on Facebook, LinkedIn, Twitter, Pinterest, and Instagram. Mostly, they are happily busy serving their fabulous clients, not hanging out online!
