For many women, gray hair can be a source of anxiety and insecurity. After all, most of us grew up being told that gray hair was a sign of aging, and that covering it up was a must-have. But times have changed! Now more and more women are embracing their gray hair—and the best part is that they can still enjoy looking stylish.
The key to using fashion to make the most of your gray hair is finding the right colors to wear. And lucky for you, we’ve got the scoop from the top stylists on the best colors to wear if you have gray hair. Read on for their expert advice!
The Basics of Color Coordinating with Gray Hair
We asked celebrity hair stylist and makeup artist Marsha Zazzi to share her tips when it comes to color coordinating with gray hair. She advises you to “stay away from colors that are too harsh or that create too much contrast” with your gray. That means avoiding bright whites, primary colors, and even navy and black. Instead, opt for muted tones and pastels.
As Marsha explains, “These softer shades will actually work in harmony with your hair to create a beautiful, blended look that’s full of depth.”
Specific Colors to Wear When You Have Gray Hair
Now that you have the basics of what to avoid and what to seek, we’ve compiled a list of specific colors that look best when you’re sporting gray hair. Here are the styles that both Marsha and other stylists recommend:
• Beige and Neutrals: Beige is the perfect color for gray hair because it complements the natural highlights and reflects the light. Look for lighter shades of tans, creams, and browns. And if you want to create a more eye-catching look, choose pieces in charcoal or navy.
• Blue and Green: Adding blue or green to your wardrobe is an easy way to add a bit of color to a gray hair look. Shades like sky blue, turquoise, and mint will look especially stunning against your gray hair.
• Plum and Burgundy: Marsha recommends going with deeper shades, like plum and burgundy, to “add more depth and complexity to the look.” These jewel tones create a mysterious and ultra-feminine look.
• White and Pastels: Pale shades of pink, lavender, and even yellow look especially good with gray hair and will give you a softer, more girly look.
• Jewel Tones: Jewel tones like sapphire, ruby, and emerald will add a bit of drama to your outfit. Look for pieces that have sparkles and sequins for an even more luxurious look.
What Not to Wear When You Have Gray Hair
Now that you know what colors to look for when shopping for your gray hair wardrobe, let’s look at the other side of the coin and review some colors to avoid. Here, stylists unanimously agree that the following colors should be avoided:
• Primary Colors: Neon colors, especially bright reds and bright yellows, should be avoided, since they’re too harsh against gray hair and can make you look washed out.
• Blacks, Browns, and Grays: These colors can create a “muddy” look, making you appear older than you are.
• Neutral Colors: While Marsha recommends that you look for lighter shades of neutral colors, steer away from mid-tone neutrals like taupe and khaki. They can be too bland with gray hair and make you look drab.
Putting Together a Look with Gray Hair
Now that you know the best colors to choose when you have gray hair, it’s time to put together some new looks. We asked Marsha to provide some tips on how to do this.
First off, she recommends starting with a neutral base. “Stick to light shades like beige, cream, and taupe and then choose a few pieces in complementary colors like deep blues and jewel tones,” she said.
Another great thing to do when creating an outfit with gray hair is to play up the accessories. You can choose items like headbands, scarves, hats, and jewelry in colors that complement your hair for a stylish and eye-catching look.
Finally, don’t be afraid to experiment. Try pairing a beige sweater with a pair of burgundy pants or a sapphire top with brightly colored shoes. Get creative and don’t worry if it sounds like it shouldn’t go together — you never know what might work!
So there you have it — the best colors to wear if you’re rocking gray hair. Remember to choose pieces in beige and other neutrals, as well as blues, greens, burgundy, and jewel tones. Avoid primary colors, blacks, and mid-tone neutrals when possible. And don’t forget about the accessories! You can always add a special touch to your look with the right items.
Have fun creating stylish looks with your gray hair. You’ll be surprised at how stylish and put-together you can look with the right colors!
