Let's go over some fool-proof colors to wear and enjoy now.
Just as spring strikes the middle note between winter and summer, your color choices should follow suit. So go ahead and lighten up, but know when to pull back. The key is to keep the balance toward the mid-range, with accents of darks and lights to add dimension and personality to your look.
Neutral: The best spring choices are mid-level neutrals in khakis, olives, browns, stones, and greys. These shades should still convey a sense of color without looking too heavy or washed out. They layer together well and are excellent foundations for adding pops of whites/creams or colors on top, which you'll need in order to energize and add visual interest to your spring wardrobe.
White: White is going to be important from now until the end of summer, but use it sparingly for now, either as accents or as background. No head-to-toe white just yet. For spring, white's main role is as lead support, not the main attraction. Used judiciously, nothing beats white's power to lift the overall mood of the season and lock in your spring style.
Black: Black is one color you can wear all year round. Head-to-toe black is too somber and stifling for this time of year, so mix it up with some neutrals, whites, or colors - my favorite is black with soft grey. Since black goes well with any color, you can technically pair it with any shade in the visible spectrum - but again, for spring, keep them in the mid-to-light levels. And of course you can never go wrong with the graphic pairing of black & white - just make sure you're not mistaken for a waiter...and if you're unsure, forget it.
Navy: Navy - especially the navy blazer - is definitely the star of the season and the perfect substitute for black. Change up any of your blacks with navy and you've got an instant dose of springtime cool. Navy also works well with neutrals, whites, and lots of colors, and compliments clear brights and primary colors better than black. And if you really can't give up black, try a deep, inky navy that does double duty as navy/black depending on the lighting.
Brown: A warm, sophisticated color that adds richness and depth to spring dressing. This is a great color to wear to either ground or top off your look, such as on pants, pullovers, or jackets. Pair it with shades of ivory, cream, sand, and stone for a soft, earthy feel. Brown worn in spring conveys a sense of ease while maintaining a level of complexity. It says you're a discerning man that also knows how to take it easy when the weather softens.
Color: In terms of real "color," spring is a great season for clear brights such as kelly green, classic red, and cobalt blue. Pale colors like sky blue are okay, but use sparingly - balance it out so your overall look doesn't get too light or washed out. Ground paler colors with richer, deeper colors that compliment and add depth, rather than creating stark contrasts such as with black.
Remember, it's all about balance and keeping things interesting, all while staying the middle course between extreme light and dark. Apply this concept to any color you like, and chances are, you're going to get it right.
