How to wear gray, the new obsession of the moment?

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In 2022, gray was chosen as the Pantone color. This year again, gray climbs back to the rank of top winter colors according to designers. A glimpse at the creations of many designers during the latest fashion weeks shows that gray is now everywhere. Whether worn as a total look, combined with other colors, or in more whimsical variations, this half-tone adapts. Yet, gray has not always had a good reputation. Let’s revisit the chromatic highlight of the season, gray, with tips on how to wear gray, the new obsession of the moment.

Gray is the new black

Out with black, it’s gray that’s trendy for the winter season 2023/2024.

Long relegated to the background, gray has suffered from a bad reputation, labeled as a dull, dreary, or even boring hue. However, for this winter season, gray has transformed its image to emerge as the must-have shade of the moment. This transformation is not simply a whim, but rather a chromatic revolution, where gray now stands as an elegant canvas upon which fashion expresses itself with subtlety. 

Why this turnaround? Gray embodies sophisticated neutrality and adapts to all seasons, offering an endless palette of expressions. Its versatility also allows for the creation of timeless looks. With gray, you can be casual, play with the codes of elegance, or even layering. With gray, you can be classic or bold. It’s a versatile color that fits all styles and many occasions.

Through a myriad of shades, from pearl gray to deep charcoal, gray asserts itself as the perfect canvas to express your style. Like black, gray is timeless, and it will always be a safe bet. With this all-terrain shade, the risk of a fashion faux pas is minimal.

How to wear gray this winter?

3 ways to wear gray this winter. In a total gray look, with touches of gray, or in a whimsical way. It’s up to you to choose!

In a total gray look

How to wear gray this winter? What if you tried the total gray look?

This is surely the trendiest option right now, wearing gray from head to toe. This season, the monochromatic universe is in the spotlight, and with gray, elegance is guaranteed. For a chic and contemporary ensemble, pair straight trousers with a matching jacket, or dare to combine a gray dress with coordinating ankle boots. The total gray look offers a sleek aesthetic that captures the very essence of winter, while evoking a modern and assured allure. Don’t hesitate to play with textures to add depth to your outfit, and accessorize with metallic accents for a touch of glamour. This season, gray monochromy is much more than a clothing option – it’s a bold style statement.

By mixing colors

For a trendy and personalized look, pair gray with other shades. For example, try pairing an oversized gray sweater with white jeans for a casual and refreshing look. Or opt for a gray skirt with a fuchsia top for a feminine and modern touch. The color combination offers an endless palette of possibilities: from pastel tones to bright hues, each combination creates a unique aesthetic.

So don’t be afraid to play with contrasts and experiment with colorful accessories like the red tights to energize your outfit. By confidently pairing gray with other colors, you’ll create fashion-forward ensembles, reflecting a personal style and affirming your presence with elegance this winter.

By daring to wear metallic or glittery gray

Last option, dare to wear sparkling gray. This is a concrete way to elevate your style and upgrade your outfit. And don’t be mistaken, you can wear whimsical gray outside of festive periods. Indeed, metallic accents bring a touch of sophistication and modernity to an everyday look. So don’t hesitate to wear these bold pieces. For instance, pair a silver skirt with an oversized knit for a balanced and elegant outfit. Opt for a gray sequin dress under an XXL blazer for a glamorous evening. But also think about accessories. They can play a key role. Metallic ankle boots or a glittery bag can perfectly complement a winter outfit. By daring to wear sparkling gray, you’ll add a dose of glamour to your winter style, affirming your boldness and self-confidence.

3 key pieces to wear in gray this winter 

The gray coat

The coat is the standout piece of winter. And this year, trends have proven it right. For winter 2023-2024, long wool coats, puffer coats, leather jackets, and scarf coats are among the top 5 winter coats. Which one lends itself best to the gray shade? The long, fitted, or oversized coat. With this shade, elegance will define you.

The gray pants

We often forget, but pants can also be worn in gray. And I’m not talking about jeans, but rather trousers. What makes the biggest impression is the silver faux leather trousers; you can’t miss those. Paired with a more sober gray knit and a pair of ankle boots, it’s style assured. But wide wool trousers, for example, are also excellent choices for your winter wardrobe.

Gray shoes

For winter, you can bet on the pair of sneakers that everyone loves, the samba sneakers. In gray, they sport a casual style that pairs wonderfully with pleated trousers. Alternatively, you can opt for a pair of Birkenstocks with wool socks. They have the power to warm our hearts (and our feet).

💡Also discover ideas for looks with an oversized coat.

Image credit: © Sandra Semburg