The first Friday of every February (a.k.a. American Heart Month) is designated as Wear Red Day. This national holiday is meant to raise awareness on cardiovascular disease, which is the leading cause of both men and women in the United States. Though the risk for heart disease varies among ethnicity, no one is immune and nearly everyone knows someone who has been touched by it. Let your Military Community know that you’re on the side of their health but sporting a chic red outfit this Friday. We’ve rounded up 10 eye-catching ideas to inspire your day.
1. Pair red with white or black for a smart office look
Black, white, and red create a bold but sophisticated look to sharpen up your office wardrobe. A pair of red slacks works effortlessly with a white top, or you could shake up a modest black dress with a red blazer. If you want to make a huge splash around the water cooler, choose a white shirt with a simple red pattern on it.
2. Wear head-to-toe red to make a statement
A well-coordinated monochromatic outfit in any color always says “high fashion,” but a full red outfit pings you as a trendsetter. And, yes, we mean red everything from shoes to trouser to shirt to accessories. Different shades of red help to break up the outfit.
3. Combine red and a contrasting color for an on-trend look
Show off your eye for fashion by color blocking red with mustard yellow, pink, or silver. The stark contrast may be surprising, but it results in an effortlessly chic look. Just keep pieces and patterns simple, so the contrast isn’t too overwhelming. If you just want to dip your toe into color blocking, you can pair red with light blue.
4. Go elegant with a red dress
You can’t go wrong with a red dress, no matter the occasion. For a formal affair, wear a full-length gown with a v-cut neckline. To keep things casual, choose a loosely fitting frock. Have fun with the accessories, too, experimenting with sandals, heels, leather jackets, and cardigans.
5. Turn heads in a red suit
Both men and women can make an entrance in a tailored red suit. It’s a great look for a night out, elegant dinner, or cocktail party. Simply wear a white or black shirt underneath and keep accessories minimal.
6. Spice up any outfit with a pair of red shoes
Some days you wake up late, rush to get ready, and can only manage to match jeans with a T-shirt or black with black. Fear not, even the most humdrum outfit can enliven in record time with a pair of red shoes. Leave a pair of heels, sneakers, or loafers by your door so you can slide them on and go.
7. Create an old-school Hollywood look with lipstick and/or nail polish
Take a page out of Marilyn Monroe’s book by sporting a timeless red lip. Or, if you don’t want to worry about reapplying after lunch, paint your nails with red nail polish. Orange and coral-toned reds look great on deeper skin tones while pink and blue-toned shades compliment fairer skin tones.
8. Add a pop of color with red accessories
Similar to the red shoe trick, red jewelry, ties, bags, and hats can freshen up even the most well-worn outfit. Keep your look professional with clothing in neutral tones like gray, black, white, and navy or go for a playful look with a bright outfit.
9. Cozy up in red outerwear
Stand out in a sea of black pea coats with snazzy red outerwear. Whether you bundle up in red knot hat and gloves or go for a bright red coat, you’ll turn your neighborhood streets into a fashion show.
10. Block out the sun in style with red sunglasses
A pair of red frames looks chic and stylish, while red lenses show off your fun personality. Just choose a style that suits the shape of your face and welcome in the light.
