Over the taupe

This winter, gloom gets a snazzy makeover! Taupe is a colour that’s trending everywhere. While it won’t come as a surprise to see the colour to be all over your Pinterest board; city-based designers sage tips to make it work for your time at the boardroom and beyond...  

“Finally, the colour forecasters have realised that taupe is a hue, which can compliment all body types. For those blessed with an hour glass body type, choose to go all out with the colour. A monochrome taupe outfit with just the right amount of shimmer is the perfect option for a late evening soiree. To infuse a wee bit of style to your workwear, a well-fitted taupe trouser looks brilliant when paired with a beige or cream round collar shirt and snug fit blazer. The colour also offers an understated appeal and helps camouflage the unflattering areas of your body. Go easy on the accessories and pair your outfit with nude hued shoes and perhaps an oxblood or pure ruby neck piece,” suggests Mayank Modi, a city-based designer.

Interestingly, while taupe has full potential of being a stand-out shade independent of a mix of other hues, a myriad of other colours can also be thrown in for added effect, all thanks to its neutral charisma. “If you’re a little concerned about carrying off the colour single handedly, team it up with shades like ocean blue, rust orange, wine, turquoise green look incredibly gorgeous,” adds Prerana Sarkar, a casual wear designer.

For those wanting to take the versatile colour a notch higher, the key to doing it right is by playing it up with patterns and prints. “For work, I’d suggest pairing taupe cigarette pants with pastels to put together a soft and neutral look. One can also play with nautical stripes and vibrant patterns in neon shades, bright checks and floral pastels. If it’s the straight boardroom appeal that you’re aiming at, choose taupe to be paired along with pristine white top wear. This gives out a sharp yet clean office wear appeal,”concludes Shalini Chopra, a stylist from the city.  

While wearing taupe, consider letting the colour be in focus. Keep the accessories and accouterments to the minimum. While taupe looks fabulous when paired with hues, avoid throwing in several colours as it can hamper the elegance of the shade. When in doubt, choose nude to go with taupe. Nude footwear and make-up look best with the colour.