Just exactly what color is buff? Is it light tan, pink beige, or a fleshy tone? The answer to those questions is yes. It is merely the absence of a dominant color with the hint of a neutral − not brown, white, or tan, but somewhere in a softer universe. For fashion lovers this summer, the “buff” look has been coming on full force since we last saw the designer collections at Lincoln Center for the season.

You’ll find it in so many different incarnations: structured and crisp or soft and flowing in a long silky gown. This non-color isn’t for everyone, but anyone can take a few pointers from this hot neutral this summer. Using my tips and the Goodwill Retail Store & Donation Center nearby, you can get buff this season, too.

1. Buff or beige makes a great foil to other more saturated tones. Bright tones make the neutral tones recede.
   
   
2. Structured pieces, like shift dresses, cargo shorts, Capri pants and safari jackets, keep the look crisp. Unless the fabric is soft and flowing like silk, these types of neutrals can look a little dowdy if you’re not careful.
   
   
3. Cotton shirtwaist dresses and tunics will always look great with summer’s rough-hewn sandals and flip-flops. Add a coarse rope belt or something else inspired by nature and you’ll be stylin’ it just right this summer.
   
   
4. Dresses and formal wear in these tones are both season-less and timeless. Just avoid bright white, and stick to oyster, putty and khaki tones.
   
   
5. Look for details in your buff colored clothing such as welting, inset panels, interesting sleeve treatments and good tailoring. A little creative touch will take these non-color items into the realm of real fashion, not faded cast-offs.
   
   
6. Embellishment is the key to making an evening or cocktail dress spectacular. Stones, sequins, ruching and ruffles look great when the dress is silk or whisper-thin chiffon. Adding metallic touches, like sandals and chandelier earrings, keep the glam going.
   
   
7. Use contrast as a way to focus attention at the waist. A dark and wide belt cinched at the waistline not only defines the figure but the style of the wearer as well.
   
   
8. Nude and buff tones continue to be a strong trend in long gowns as well. For a formal summer wedding, a strapless dress or something less structured would be the way to go.
   
   
9. For daytime events, a sheath or halter dress in this tone keeps the focus on the wearer and not the dress. Play up the soft peachy makeup and wear a smoky eye.
   
   
10. A great jacket in this color can have many lives in your wardrobe. It can be dressed up or down and always works − no matter what the weather − if it is made of fine Egyptian cotton.

askbjorn@goodwillsew.com

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