Coastal cool: how to create a chic capsule in a Winter color palette
When we think of coastal chic style, we often picture colors that are muted, soft and beachy. Think sand, sea, sky, faded clapboard houses. But if you’re a Winter, your best colors are cool, and usually bright and saturated. And you may look faded and drained in softer shades. In this post I’ll share some tips to create a comfortable and stylish coastal chic capsule in a Winter color palette.
In an earlier post, Why “coastal chic” is my new style mantra, I shared some of the reasons why this style aesthetic seems to appeal to many of us now. Even if you aren’t “coastal” in the geographic sense, it’s an easy and timeless look for casual lifestyles. I also think it’s a very adaptable and versatile style, and can work for all ages. And yes, for all color palettes.
How to wear coastal chic when your color palette is Winter
If you’ve been color analyzed as a Winter, your best colors are cool. And you probably look your best in bright, saturated colors and do well with some contrast in your outfits. (Though rarer, some Winters are best in lighter, “icy” colors.) Either way, you’ll disappear in soft, faded colors. And very warm, yellow-based colors may make you look sallow or muddy. So the muted, sand-washed shades that often exemplify coastal chic style won’t do you any favors.
BOATNECK TEE | CARDIGAN | STRIPED TEE
SKIRT | BAG | NAVY TROUSERS | WHITE TROUSERS
BRACELETS | SNEAKERS | SANDALS
So how does a Winter make the coastal chic look work for them? One way to go is to think “nautical.” White with navy or various shades of royal blue, and a smattering of berry or fuchsia will coordinate nicely and should work for most Winters. Some Winters may be able to throw in an acid yellow accent here or there. Or some Emerald or Spruce green (think of those coastal cypresses…)
To keep “nautical” leaning toward a more beachy vibe (and away from Thurston Howell III)…
- keep styles relaxed. They don’t have to be oversized, but stay away from anything too tailored.
- if you want to add something in a crisp fabric like poplin, go a little oversized.
- mix up your textures
- keep accessories on the more casual side.
- if your style needs some structure, go for a collared shirt, roll up your sleeves.
If you prefer a more neutral palette, you can always do various combinations of black, white, gray, and navy.
More coastal chic options for the Winter color palette
White jeans are a perennial, and would look great with any of the tops in the capsule. To stay with the “coastal” vibe, I’d stick to more relaxed fits like these “slim wide leg” jeans above.
For some shoulder/arm coverage without the swelter factor, here’s a breezy linen poncho. (If you’re traveling somewhere hot, this could really come in handy!) Also in Black and Steel (pale gray). Personally, I’d suggest layering the white over dark separates (black or navy) and the black poncho over white.
That white cardigan shown in the capsule is also available in this nice Raspberry color. (Soft White & Cobblestone will work for most Springs/Autumns, Ocean is nice for Summers.)
The irregular square dot pattern gives this black and white shirt a casual vibe. Available in sizes 00(0/2) to 4(20/22). No ironing needed, so another good one for travel!
If you love the comfort of a Birkenstock footbed but prefer a sleeker look, these Gizeh sandals are also available in a fun silver metallic.
It doesn’t get more coastal than a Boat and Tote canvas bag. The red or dark green handle colors are also compatible with a Winter palette.
I love using accessories to add color. The blue bead bracelet set I featured in the capsule is a bit spendy…here’s a more budget-friendly option.
And be sure to visit my SHOP for more Winter color palette picks.
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Susan, the winter coastal chic wardrobe is absolutely perfect and I wish I could magically transport it to mine. Well done.
I am a Autumn color palette, do you cover that?
Yes, the prior post here, Why “coastal chic” is my new mantra features a palette that would work for most Autumns. And I’ll be doing more of these in various seasonal palettes in the future.
Many thanks for this Winter-specific post!
We will be going on a 15 day river cruise in September, beginning our cruise in
Budapest and ending in Amsterdam. Any suggestion on nice clothing I could wear for dinner on the boat? Cocktail dresses are not required, but nice dresses or pant outfits? I am beginning to put together my capsule packing wardrobe and could use some help. BTW, I am a Winter, 5′ tall and curvy. I get many fantastic packing ideas for you Susan.
Thank you so much for this post Susan! It is like you’re reading my mind. Being a winter, I always find it more challenging dressing in the warmer seasons. I love the look of natural colors and especially natural linen, but close to my face it is not flattering at all. Also, I want to tell you how much I enjoy all your posts and how carefully crafted and thoughtful they all seem to be. I like that you always choose quality items to share with us with wonderful styling options. I appreciate you so much!
The Dansko Reece sandal you are showing is my ‘go to’ shoe. I is so very comfortable and just stylish enough for my casual lifestyle. I have it in 5 different colors…and might add the blue because it is so pretty! This shoe is my version of Birks. I cannot walk in the lower heel bed of Birks, though I love the look…I wear the 39 and usually wear a 7.5 or an 8. I am the odd lady out who NEEDS the toe post thing to walk comfortably!
These are my colors! I love this collection. You reminded me why my navy/white summer wardrobe (with pops of fuchsia) makes me so happy. I also find that I can incorporate a light gray (if I can find pieces in that color) into my palate.
Oops! I meant palette. I do know the difference!
This is a lovely Winter coastal chic capsule! Looking forward to seeing one for Summer.
Great post Susan, thank you! A white blouse with jeans is my summer staple, and I usually accessorize with a colorful scarf for evenings. I am beginning to notice when others bloggers do not stick to their appropriate color scheme!
Karen
I feel seen! This is exactly how I’m doing summer!
This winter thanks you for these ideas and for all you do for us! I’m loving your posts with the seasonal color suggestions.
Hello Susan,
Thank you very much for this capsule, it is wonderful.
I had color analysis with Red Leopard after you wrote about them, and am a Winter Romantic Classis.
Can you please write a post or give suggestions of how to make any casual clothing/capsule more glamorous since my life is more casual than my style personality? Thank you in advance.
Susan, this post is like a breath of fresh air.
It’s exciting to see these options for a Winter palette. I wish I could wear creamy colors, but these suit me personally and have lots of eye appeal.
Thanks
Thanks for this post. It’s just what I needed to refresh my spring/summer costal look. Having recently moved to San Diego, I need to revise my wardrobe (mostly black) to something more current for the location.
Nice colors! As a Winter, I don’t understand why people think it’s difficult to find clothing in our palette. Put on a white shirt over black, navy, gray, or white pants/skirt/shorts/dress and you’re done! I think Winter is a very easy season to be.
Great post, Susan! I got such a laugh out of your Thurston Howell III reference — spot on for when I try to go “nautical”. As a Deep Summer, I find that some of the washed-out pastels and beiges from the usual coastal palettes don’t do me any favors. I’m going to try to steal some ideas from your post and tweak them for a Deep Summer. I find that I can get away with a soft white overshirt if it’s sheer and worn over one of “my” colors. Love the long sleeved striped tee, but don’t know the brand. Have you ordered? Does it fit true to size? Thanks so much!
Thank you for this post. This is perfect for me, casual and comfortable but enough zip and style!
Thank You Susan for putting together the Winter Coastal Chic.
I’m waiting for the “summer” palette! Thanks!