In Praise of Yellow
The sweetest floral centerpiece I ever saw had buttercups in it. The hostess picked them from her own lawn and jammed them every which way into her swanky floral arrangement. As little as buttercups are, I was enchanted and somehow it made dinner seem less fussy and more fun.
I’ve never considered yellow as a fashion statement. Stylists proclaim that it is very difficult to look lovely or even healthy in yellow. But recently, my little granddaughter came to my house in a petite yellow frock and I was as enchanted as I was with my friend’s buttercups. The dress turned my granddaughter into a spritely little thing and although babies don’t have to force sunshine upon anyone – they just make us happy naturally – she was as enticing as well…butter!
I am changing my mind about whether I or anyone can wear yellow. My skin has a natural sallowness to it and I do believe that with this tone, it may be a little easier to wear yellow. But yesterday, on one of our dankest and darkest spring days ever, a friend showed up for lunch in a wonderful straw-yellow sweater in the dreamiest cashmere. It made her normally ivory face beam like a flare, especially with cherry-red lips. I just wanted to stare at her for she had brought the sun in the door too.
So I think yellow might have been a bit fashionally maligned. It can be gorgeous especially as we hold out for the real source of yellow. We are cold here in the Northeast and there is barely any sun except for a pale facsimile between the rain clouds. But my new yellow cotton and silk scarf is like a bunch of buttercups in an old gent’s lapel.
7 Comments
susie @ persimmon moon cottage
If you are in the mood to see some clothing in pretty colors take a look at Diane in Denmark. She wears clothing that is so pretty and practical. I found her on You Tube at Diane in Denmark.
Cissy Foster
As I write this, I am wearing a soft pink top and cardigan (having Rosacea, I tend to wear softer shades of clothing) …hopefully I can find a soft yellow set soon.
Although up in years (62 to be exact), I too find that yellow has been maligned for years, and now see a renewal in decor also….which by the way, I made my spring door wreath with yellow and white flowers this year!
So bring on the beautiful sun shiny yellow!!
Donna
Sounds lovely Cissy! (another up in age gal)
susie @ persimmon moon cottage
I don't know why yellow has been so maligned for fashion. Someone, somewhere seems to have awakened this spring because I have been seeing several yellow blouses and dresses. The trick is finding a yellow shade that works with your coloring. I am so tired of black and navy blue and beige. We have had a particularly dreary winter and spring. I need bright pretty colors, including yellow.
Donna
I'm tired of somber colors too Susie. Just bought a melon-colored handbag!
Amy
I finally realized that every time I wear yellow – in particular, a sunshine yellow sweater – I am complimented on my appearance. It never happens with any other color. I do have a pink undertone to my skin and light blonde hair, so apparently this color works for me. I've actively started adding more yellow to my wardrobe – and also just had my kitchen painted in a color called "Iced Lemonade." It lifts my spirits every time I walk into the kitchen!
Donna
People do respond to yellow, even if one thinks it doesn't flatter. Thank you Amy!