Summer Colored Denim: Tangerine

When I think of tangerines, I think spring and summertime picnics. I also think of winter and the bags of easy peel tangerines I usually buy in bulk in an attempt to ward off illness. Tangerine, however, is a dreamy and bold shade of orange. Like most shades of orange, tangerine can feel a bit daunting to style and wear. The truth is, of all the shades of orange to wear, this one is easy peasy. It works well on all skin tones and all age groups. Unlike true orange or pumpkin orange, you can fly under the radar wearing tangerine. The question is though, who would want to?



1.Neutrals. Is it any wonder that I would begin with neutrals? When starting off with tangerine, soften the edge or this warm weather cutie by pairing it with cream, beige, taupe, or camel. These lovely and sophisticated neutrals will tone down this shade or orange and make you look sophisticated at the same time. If you are feeling bold and want to make a statement with your neutrals pair tangerine with navy or black. Both of these neutrals will make tangerine pop.
This outfit features a soft taupe short sleeve sweater and a pair of light gray flats with a navy blue flamingo print. While simple, it is very refreshing and calm.

2.Color blocking. When done correctly, color blocking can be a fabulous way to add trend and grow up an outfit. Tangerine pairs well with bold colors like royal blue, purple, and fuchsia. For a more daring look color block with forest green or a soft pale rose.
I wanted something bold, summer and early fall inspired, and fun. Enter royal blue, tangerine and purple. It is complementary and unexpected. Just what I like. Here, I paired a short sleeve royal blue sweater with a tangerine denim skirt and a pair of faux suede lace up flats to anchor the outfit.

3.Prints and Patterns. Neutrals and color blocking are not the only options available when styling tangerine. Since this is especially a summer and spring time hue, you can play it safe with tropical themed floral print tops, or with neutral based prints like polka dots or stripes. However, don’t be afraid to think or dress outside of the box. Prints, like paisley, when done in complimentary colors like blue, purple, or mojito green are a modern and trendy way to style prints with tangerine.
I love unique prints: unicorns, ice cream cones, raccoons. If it isn't a traditional print, I am all about it. Hence this mint green camera print blouse. Paired with tangerine it is perfect for summer.

4.Work or play. Colored denim works well at work and at play. (Granted it does highly depend upon where you work if colored denim is okay. The office- not a chance. School- use discretion, but any more, teachers are wearing more and more casual pieces to work). When dressing up colored denim like tangerine, reach for a blouse and a blazer. A pair of printed or solid color flats add a nice touch to complete the outfit. When dressing down colored denim, a printed or plain tee and a medium wash denim jacket with flats or sneakers works just as well.
Since it is summer I wanted something light weight and work appropriate, hence the white tie neck blouse in a hot air balloon print. I added a white cotton lace head band and a pair of blue/green snake print flats for an extra pop of color and fun.