I get it. Sometimes, we are not seeking attention. We want to be put together, but not with too much color. I do agree there are times when too much color is just not comfortable. For example: funerals and weddings. Happy we have not been to a funeral lately, right? As far as weddings, I enjoy being a guest rather than a bridesmaid, as creative control on the wardrobe is a must for me, selfishly speaking. If a bridesmaid, hopefully the dress is something I can wear again, and if not - oh well! I cope. On the day-to-day, I do try a lot of color because it makes me happy. I feel like I smile from the inside out - and that projects out. It is an energy that opens opportunity and invites people to approach, ask questions or simply greet regardless of the weather. But, why are we sometimes so afraid of color? I must say that in my life, color has been a friend - my father was an engineer by profession, but a part time artist. He painted on canvas as a way to relax and meditate. So, our home was filled with books about art, photography, and architecture. I never studied color theory or any other formal training in the visual arts. I just follow what my eye gravitates to and develop it as I go. I tend to do the same with fashion. I see a look in my head, and I develop it accordingly - ok ok, I do not just wear anything, as I stick to age rules (I am 46), color, style, etc. The fact that my mother grew up in Brazil - her influence has been parmount in my life and has defnitely allowed me to be more open to color, and generally, I love it - especially if I acquire garments that have a timeless quality. Maybe for you, figure out what your eye gravitates to, and add pieces that you can add easily - winter coats are a great way to do that becuase it doesnt completely change your wardrobe's dynamic, and it is interchangeable (you can take it off indoors). Do the same for the Spring with a light blazer. The summer might be a bit more challenging, but you can still acquire pieces that satisfy both, your eye and a bit more color. As a general rule, I tend to remind myself that many times the perception we have of ourselves is more negtive than what people perceive. So, trying a new color in ANYTHING might make you look more beautiful than you feel, and that projection is what people will see. Trust me!
Karina XOXO