Welcome to Gems & Geodes

An information hotspot for those seeking handy tips and sources for inspiration.

Friday, August 5, 2011

Colour Focus: Purple

The colour purple (and I'm not talking about the book/movie) has been used throughout the ages dating all the way back to 500 BC and is symbolic of magic and mystery.  Purple has been associated with royalty and aristocracy and what better way to get in touch with your inner-royal than by sporting this regal colour.


Purple is a very flattering colour and can easily be incorporated into your wardrobe.  Varying shades of purple is what lends this colour its versatility - from lilac to plum, purple is certainly a colour worth investing in.  You can add purple by diving head-first into an all-purple sheath or by adding little hits of purple here-and-there in the form of separates or accessories.  Purple in the form of shoes, bags, tops, scarves, belts, bracelets, rings, etc. but no matter what, I recommend this colour as an essential in all wardrobes.









If you're not comfortable with the thought of wearing purple as the dominant colour try selecting a print where purple is the main colour but not the only colour, this way you'll get that hit of purple, but you'll also get the best of both worlds!  The BCBG dress above best describes the use of purple in a print that is primarily purple but also includes other colours; in this case cream, black and pink.


In the case of home decor, purple is a colour that you can go big with or use sparingly.  In the case of decking out your home in all-out purple you could easily get away with it if you start with a very light base and gradually build up the depth of colour.  But if you're not inclined to start painting your walls in a pale lilac then why not opt for hits here and there.









As you can see from the items above, purple can be integrated in varying forms, in art, textiles, lighting, accessories and even in furniture.  The options are limitless and it really is all about the fun-factor with this particular colour.  Just be careful not to go too dramatic otherwise your place may end up looking more brothel than you had hoped for!


Happy Shopping!


Courtesy of:
Banana Republic
Aldo
BCBG Max Azria
Nine West
Danier
Pier 1
Structube