EXCLUSIVE The subtle trick posh people use to look effortless and classy - and it's all down to what colour they wear
Looking posh or expensive isn't about wearing designer logos, it's about creating a refined, elevated look and colour plays a huge part, according to a celebrity stylist.
Certain shades instantly suggest sophistication because they echo the tones used in luxury branding, interiors and even nature.
Monochromatic dressing - wearing different tones of the same colour - is another smart trick. It elongates the body and looks intentionally styled.
Award winning personal stylist Lisa Talbot gave Femail a list of the most sophisticated colours that you can incorporate into your wardrobe for an expensive look.
'Pairing classic colours with clean silhouettes and good fabric textures is the key to that effortless, quiet luxury look.'
Think rich, muted hues like deep navy, camel, soft ivory, taupe, charcoal, and burgundy.
These colours are timeless and elegant, often associated with high-end fabrics and heritage style.
And cool neutrals like stone, dove grey and biscuit create a chic, understated base, while rich tones like forest green or chocolate brown can add depth without shouting for attention.
Deep navy
Navy One Shoulder Midi Dress - nobody's child £79.00
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Daisy Navy Ruched Maxi Dress - Phase Eight £127.20
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These deep navy dresses are feminine and flattering. The rich tones lend themselves to an aura of sophistication that nonetheless pairs will with the summer weather.
Perfect for lounging in the park or even a rooftop cocktail party, the dresses need only be paired with some simple jewellery for a flattering look.
UK-based stylist Rochelle White told Femail: 'The good thing about this shade is that it is versatile, can be mixed together with others and suits many skin tones. '
Camel
Lola Cropped Trench Jacket - Phase Eight £79.20
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Roll Neck Knitted Jumper - nobody's child £27.60
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Soft camel tones ooze professionalism and stylishness. Often, overly bright colours are harsh on the eye and this shade of beige is both subtle and easy to accessorises.
Rochelle said: 'Depending on personal preference a good rule of thumb tends to be to stay away from bright colours or purely trend led pieces.
'I tend to associate neon colours with festivals and holidays and not so much everyday. However, some people can pull off neon and animals on a daily basis.
'I think that if it's stuff and works, then rock it. But, I would say if you're more muted, stay away from anything too flashy.'
Soft ivory
Pure Cotton Poplin A-line Skirt - M&S £32.50
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Emilia Cotton Crew Cardigan - Boden £66.00
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Soft ivory is a more gentle take on classic white. The yellow, buttery undertones are perfect for spring and summer weather without being loud or overtly floral.
'I think neutral tones give the impression of poshness, as well as black and white which I feel are a staple in any capsule collection,' said Rochelle.
'As well as white, an all black outfit can make an impact no matter the setting.
'It can elevate how people feel about themselves and in either a formal or casual setting. Depending on what you're going for it can convey a sense of elegance.'
Taupe
An example of neutrality elevated, taupe is effortlessly chic and suitable for all occasions.
Easily paired with many colours and fabrics, it's a versatile choice that can diversify your wardrobe with just one or two pieces.
'Depending on what you are going for, I feel that mixing colours and shades can add to an outfit,' said Rochelle.
'You could go all black with a pop of colour such a sleek white shirt and red accessories such a belt, bag and shoes.
'You double down and go all grey, all black, or all navy to bring an outfit together and be more cohesive.
'The standard monochrome look always looks good and mixing neutrals can add to a look.'
Charcoal
Woven Straight Leg Trousers with Stretch - M&S £25.00
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Eva Cashmere Roll Neck Jumper - Boden £120.00
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A deep charcoal is like a less harsh take on a bold black. It's versatile, it complements other colours and gives an elevated look.
The shade also goes with a range of skin tones and hair colours. And understanding your complexion is crucial for selecting the right tones.
'Having knowledge of what works on you, your body shape and skin tone is a good way to use colour to your advantage,' said Rochelle.
'Which shades compliment your complexion, or enhance features such as eye colour, and lips?
'I would also recommend opting for a good balance in colours that suit you and, if you're a fan of accessories, mix and match.
'Try colour, patterns, small, big, bold or simply stylish pieces. If colour is your thing, be controlled and balanced.'
Burgundy
The rich hue of a fine red wine, burgundy is both sensual and mysterious.
The colour has historically evoked a sense of class, elegance and boldness without being too flashy.
It has a timeless quality to it, bringing the energy of the roaring twenties into the 2020s.
And it's versatile. Burgundy can be worn to the office, to a dinner party or to a high-profile event and be equally suitable for each occasion.
Stone
100% Linen Flounce Midi Skirt - Massimo Dutti £89.95
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Stone Short Sleeve Knitted Cardigan - George £18.00
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Stone, and its many variations, is gentle and calming, without bringing the harshness of a stark white.
Unlike brighter colours, this understated tone lends itself to an air of seriousness and subtlety.
Although not all stone shades are pairable with other colours owing to their buttery yellow undertones, it can be the choice backdrop for a richer colour.
And stone is associated with high-quality material and excellent craftmanship.
Dove grey
Flower Button Cable Knitted Cardigan - George £20.00
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Knit 100% cashmere V-neck sweater - Massimo Dutti £169.00
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Dove grey is a beautiful mix of warmth and stillness and has the unique ability to be paired with itself in different fabrics.
The ultimate evocation of comfort and relaxation, it is easy on the eye and conjures images of naturally occurring materials.
And dove grey pairs well with blue jeans, plain tops and can be dressed up with jewellery, so it doesn't require a wardrobe overhaul to stand out.
Biscuit
Funnel Neck Longline Knitted Jumper - nobody's child £20.00
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Senita Fine Knit V-Neck Jumper - Phase Eight £60.00
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Biscuit tones are frequently referred to as timeless and classic, and they don't often make their way into fleeting fashion trends.
This shade pairs well with basic block colours such as black, white or navy, making them stand out.
Like many of the neutral tones associated with wealth and elegance, it points to naturally occurring landscapes and objects, rather than synthetic ones.
Depending on the tone, it can appear both warm and slightly frostier - suitable for a variety of climes and temperatures.
Forest green
Minty Wrap Dress - Phase Eight £135.20
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Wren Double Cloth Dress - Boden £86.00
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Forest green shades are earthy and refreshing. Similarly to burgundy, they are rich and inviting without being loud or excessive.
They complement brunettes and contrast strikingly with blond hair.
As it's a darker tone, it usually carries associations of maturity, nature and luxury.
Chocolate brown
Double Pleated Bermuda Shorts - nobody's child £55.20
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Brown Ribbed Scoop Neck Vest - Tu £5.00
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'If you want to look polished without the price tag, avoid overly bright, synthetic colours and instead choose shades that look like they belong in a luxury boutique,' said Lisa Talbot.
Shades like bright primary colours - red, yellow and blue - and anything in a neon shade are good ones to steer clear of.
Purple, pink and lemon yellow should also be avoided if you aim to appear elegant and expensive.
However, Rochelle said that butter yellow is making its way into high fashion and celebrity scenes.
'I've seen a lot more buttery yellow. I have seen Sophie Turner, FKA Twigs and Ariana Grande among others rocking this colour.
'It's made its way onto red carpets and runways. It does have a more sophisticated and elegant feel with a modern twist.'
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