Kate M.W. ~ In an effort to combat the dusky grey chill of fall, I like to make sure that there’s a solid measure of colour in my wardrobe. I’m not advocating for the classic “pop” of colour, but instead a whole ensemble that tries to incorporate it wherever possible. Starting with a multi-tonal embroidered scarf that brings in muted tones from blue to purple, with strains of olive greens and mustard yellows, and set off by poppy reds and oranges, can lead to a world of endless possibility.

Kovdor Embroidered Scarf, Anthropologie, $68

When balancing in a complete outfit of colour, I tend to pick neutral patterns and fabrics. Take a look at a colour wheel and pick tones from opposite sides, or even go back to the scarf and see what colours that sit side-by-side amongst its embroidery really catch your eye. Because it’s fall, I think of my foundations in three pieces: a jacket, a top, and pants. Two out of the three should be colour, and the third a neutral. In this case, a mustard and white striped linen t-shirt brings contrast to deep eggplant toned cords while a classic denim jacket functions as a neutral.

Nolita Jacket, J.Crew, $98 / Straight Leg Cords in Midnight Purple, Talbots, $90 / Linen Jersey Stripe Tee, Eileen Fisher, $69

In putting together the rest of the details, I returned to the scarf to pick out the remainder of the accent colours. While I’ve recently been pondering dusky ankle boots, dark coloured cords can hold up to burnt sienna ankle boots, and the orange colour pairs well with the deep tan accents on a teal bag. To pick up on the whimsy of the embroidery on the scarf, I’d go for a necklace full of quirky charms with offbeat sayings and pictures. A neutral statement ring and a little dash of muted sparkle on the ears rounds out the rest of the jewelry. Keep your makeup simple, a flush of tawny rose colour on the cheeks and a sheer wash of a plummy grape-toned lipstick.

Amazonian Clay Blush in Exposed, Tarte, $25 / Lipstick in Damage, NARS, $24 / Necklace charms in Queen of Art, You are Here, and Dot Initial, Pick-Up Sticks, $15-18 / Belted Strap Classic Ellie in Emerald, Gryson, $595 / Smoky Topaz Studs, Bounkit, $75 / Athena Ring, Giles & Brother, $70 / Cassidy Bootie, Cole Haan, $268

With an array of tones and endless opportunities to let your imagination and appetite for colour run wild, take advantage. A scarf such as this really does embody what it means to let your outfit and style speak a bit louder…as always, it’s all in the details.

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