Go Pink Crazy for Spring

While I write this, snow is drifting down from the heavens, blanketing the streets of New York City. But, that won’t dissuade me from thinking about spring. And when I think about spring, I think pink. And so should you.

That was the message at all the recent fashion shows, where tastemakers urged women to abandon the season’s traditionally somber colors and make pink their go-to shade, especially for the spring.

Want more proof? If you tuned in to the 2019 Academy Awards, you saw a sea of different shades of pink on lots of the celeb nominees. I especially loved Dame Helen Mirren’s lovely coral-pink choice.

And why not? Pink is one of the most flattering colors a woman can wear. Whether it’s blush, lipstick or a luxurious cashmere sweater, pink makes women feel pretty and powerful — the best possible combination.

One of my favorite dresses is this chic, silky blush-pink piece (That’s me on the right with my two daughters on vacation last year). It also looks super-cool with a black, snug-fitting moto jacket. And yes that color definitely makes me feel pretty.

We’re seeing all shades of ladylike pink — magenta, rose, fuchsia, bubble gum and more — show up in jackets, pants, sweaters, bags, shoes, makeup, nails and even overcoats. Jewelry designers started the pink groundswell a few years back, when they dubbed rose gold the must-have metal for bracelets, necklaces and watches. And of course, who doesn’t want a rose gold Apple watch with a pick band?

But, we can wear gorgeous shades of pink in many other ways. Such as . . .

Your lips. Of course your lips! That’s the easiest place to start! My #1 pick for spring (or right now for that matter!) is Bobbi Brown’s Art Stick in Dusty Pink. Absolutely love it.  And I especially love pink lipsticks that come in rose gold cases. Lovely. 

Your cheeks. When you can’t arrange for great sex to put that special glow on your face, settle for the next-best thing: NARS Orgasm Blush, the peachy-pink shade that makes your skin glisten like afterglow. Good news! This best-selling blush also comes in a creamy version.

Your nails. I love my blue nails all year long, but sometimes a woman just has to stop the sass and start the sweet, thanks to pretty pink nails. Essie’s Ballet Slippers and Mademoiselle are classic, demure pinks; bolder but not over the top is OPI’s Rosy Future.

Your body. Not since I bankrupted myself buying a pale pink Courrèges shift dress (with matching jacket) in 1981 have I spied so many fabulous ways to sport pretty pink for work, dinner and every activity in between. Even bras and panties are having their pink moment. (Don’t ask me how I know.)

The best news? Almost every one of these clothing items can be worn all year long. Here are my “pink picks” for the season:

• Long-length jacket: Wear a soft, pink, Chanel-ish bouclé jacket in the new longer length with black, gray or navy pants or leggings. The one at left from Neiman Marcus is stylish, practical and flattering.

Alternatively, check out the barely-there, beigey pink version from Nordstroms. Pair it with your favorite ankle-length jeans or black slacks, a white or cream silk top (with a trendy tie, perhaps?) and a pair of cool black loafers or booties. Sheer chicness!

• Dress: One of my favorite easy-to-wear-on-any-body, pull-on dresses is from Tees by Tina. The stretchy (but semi-thick) material of the Crinkle Dress adds style in any season; it’s especially current right now in peony (right).   

• Cozy sweater: Want to add a warm pop of color to a chilly day? Throw on a cool sweater over a man-tailored white shirt or tank, black pants, and kitten-heel pumps or block-heeled Mary Janes. (The cozy sweater looks just as good with jeans.) As a finishing touch, try a soft, thin, colorful scarf that you wrap several times, like this one (right).

Want to find out which shades of pink will look best on you? Check out this short video!