Red: Fall’s ‘power’ player
Red was a distinct note on the fall runways, and plenty of red accessories are turning up in stores this season, adding a punch of color to wardrobe staples.
It’s a longtime “power” color (remember the power tie? Nancy Reagan red?) and is traditionally believed to be stimulating and energizing. It’s a hue associated with anger, sin, sex and virility. (Red-blooded anyone?)
Red is especially complementary to all of the camel hues and leopard prints seen in stores at almost every price this season. Try winding a skinny red belt around dark blue jeans and pairing both with a leopard print blouse. Or slip on some red ballet flats with a leopard print cashmere sweater and cropped black pants.
Need specifics? For daytime, Tod’s red suede slip-on oxfords ($525) look good with dark cuffed jeans, a charcoal cashmere sweater and some layered gold necklaces.
A new pair of eyeglasses can incorporate red into a daily routine as well. Square frames from Prada ($220) are much more sleek and sexy than they are Sally Jessy Raphael and could become a signature accessory. If eyeglasses are too much of a commitment, there are plenty of red sunglass frames that add warmth to the face in addition to being a nice, unexpected pop of color. Ray-Ban’s new twist on its classic aviator is a red-piped frame called the “Road Spirit” ($149.95). For something more va-va-voom, try Chanel’s oversized red frames with smoky lenses ($320).
Jewelry designers are using red in interesting and exotic ways. Kara Ross’ “Eclipse” red python pendant ($360) could add a little 1970s glam to an outfit, and Isharya’s red turquoise ($180) ring can be worn every day or donned to spice up a special look.
For those who really want to make a statement, fall offerings include the head-turning Sigerson Morrison two-piece buckled suede pumps ($595). They’re pointy and sexy without looking over the top. Another strong red accessory is the felt Trilby hat from Reiss ($90). And for evening, try a pleated leather clutch from Tiffany & Co. ($995).
Finally, what’s more classic than a good red lipstick? Chanel’s new Rouge Allure shade titled “Excessive” ($32) is a true pop of red that will put a feminine spin on the season’s military trend and camo colors or bring drama to an all-black evening look.
Red catches our attention, whether it takes the form of a stop sign or a scarlet letter or a Kardinal rose. It’s the color of Valentine’s Day and the color associated with heat. Who knows what will happen when you make it your own?
