In between the dazzling fall leaves and bright spring blossoms the monochromatic January landscape is all texture. Green is the dominant color, the grassy slopes and evergreen conifers fronting a backdrop of eucalyptus. For much of the vegetation without its usual cloak of leaves, texture steals the show. Pale brown limbs, peeling bark, blackberry canes, stalks of rushes and dried grasses line paths and roadways as if placed there by an artist. 

Instead of color mixing as the usual theme of my wardrobe choices, I’ve been focusing on texture. If I dress in all solids or analogous colors (related hues in the same family), adding a variety of textures gives the outfit an elegant feel. This time of year I love emphasizing the neutral colors of my palette, especially navy, charcoal, blue grey and burgundy. 

My favorite way to mix textures is smooth (slippery) against something with a nap (high friction), for example, silk against velvet. A silky tank peeking out of a cashmere cardigan over a corduroy skirt adds visual interest. Here are some examples.

Depending upon the finish, many textures, including linen, cotton, beaded fabric, sequins, embroidery, braided leather, and woven cord can be either or both. Variations are endless and you’re probably already thinking of ones you own. I’m going to have to end this blog soon because I can’t stop obsessing over options in my own wardrobe.  It’s always satisfying to create a fresh look with what I have but mostly I just want to entertain myself 

Luckily winter dressing is made for layering. I’m usually wearing three pieces of clothing, so three different textures is easy. A fun challenge is to add a fourth, plus jewelry and/or a great belt. 

When you emerge from your closet, notice how nature layers it’s finery.

Filmy clouds in a smooth blue sky, a rough tree against silken grasses. Cloudy, misty days are the best for this type of observation. It’s easy to feel cheerful when the sun is shining so let these moody days give you  excuse to observe more closely. 

As the seasons shift toward spring everything will lighten and I’ll be drawn to pattern mixing and my dark navy and black will need a shot of blossom pinks and whites.  In our coastal climate we layer year round, and when I add more pastels in the spring I plan to continue experimenting with texture. Losing my mom last fall interrupted the way I normally see and  think and consequently choose outfits. I welcome the change in perspective.

Self care isn’t something you always have to plan for, it can be something you stumble upon in your closet or view out your window as you drive down a country road.

More fun ahead: color, texture, proportion, shape, style, trends!

An Artful Approach to Personal Style
Spring Semester, April 6, 12-3
College of Marin.
Details here.