HER Style Podcast Episode 255 Summary: "What Are Your Neutrals? Identifying Your Best Base Colors for a More Versatile Wardrobe"

Release Date: July 14, 2025

In Episode 255 of the HER Style Podcast, hosted by Heather Riggs—a seasoned stylist, image consultant, and color analyst—listeners delve into the pivotal role of neutrals in building a versatile and personalized wardrobe. This episode, titled "What Are Your Neutrals? Identifying Your Best Base Colors for a More Versatile Wardrobe," offers a comprehensive exploration of neutrals beyond the conventional black, white, and beige, guiding ambitious women to curate a wardrobe that not only reflects their personal style but also enhances their confidence.

1. Introduction to Neutrals

Heather begins by challenging the traditional perception of neutrals, expanding the definition to include a broader spectrum of muted tones. She emphasizes that neutrals are the backbone of a versatile wardrobe, acting as the "glue that holds your wardrobe together." Neutrals, by nature, lack a strong chromatic presence, allowing them to effortlessly complement bolder colors and simplify daily outfit decisions.

Heather Riggs [00:00]: “What if the most powerful colors in your wardrobe are the ones you barely even notice?”

2. Personal Journey with Neutrals

Heather shares her personal "beige era" post-2018 motherhood, where she adopted an all-neutral wardrobe inspired by "cool mom" influencers. While initially successful in creating an effortless look, she later realized the limitations of a limited neutral palette, feeling her wardrobe lacked excitement and individuality.

Heather Riggs [00:45]: “My closet felt easy and effortless, and it was super simple to put on a neutral outfit and just run out the door. And that was what I really needed in that season of my life.”

This introspection led her to develop a more nuanced approach to neutrals, focusing on colors that truly resonate with her personal palette rather than following generalized trends.

3. Redefining Neutrals

Heather advocates for an expanded view of neutrals, incorporating a variety of muted and sophisticated tones that can add depth and personality to a wardrobe. She lists several unconventional neutrals, demonstrating their versatility and ability to elevate personal style.

Expanded Neutrals Include:

• Navy or Denim Blue: Offers a classic yet versatile base.
• Olive or Forest Green: Adds a rich, earthy tone.
• Chocolate Brown and Mocha Mousse: Perfect for warm complexions and brown eyes.
• Warm Taupe and Mushroom Gray: Subtle alternatives to traditional neutrals.
• Burgundy Wine and Dark Eggplant: Introduce a touch of color while maintaining neutrality.
• Terracotta and Butter Yellow: Trend-forward neutrals that infuse warmth.
• Dusty Rose and Ice Blue: Soft pastels that serve as understated backdrops.

Heather Riggs [07:30]: “Neutrals can be so many different options. It could be navy or denim blue... or maybe an espresso brown or a charcoal gray.”

4. Selecting the Right Neutrals: Three Essential Filters

Heather outlines a strategic approach to selecting neutrals, utilizing three key filters to ensure each color choice aligns with individual needs and enhances overall style.

a. Personal Coloring

Understanding one's natural coloring is crucial. Heather advises choosing neutrals that complement and enhance one's complexion, whether warm or cool-toned.

Heather Riggs [12:10]: “If you have a warm skin tone, you might want to think about considering ivory or camel instead, something that has a warmer undertone.”

b. Personality and Personal Style

Neutrals should reflect and resonate with one's personality. Whether one leans towards a classic, creative, or romantic style, selecting neutrals that mirror these traits can enhance personal expression.

Heather Riggs [15:45]: “A classic dresser may gravitate toward navy, camel, and cream, but a more creative style might lean into olives and burgundy.”

c. Lifestyle and Daily Needs

Practicality is paramount. Neutrals should fit seamlessly into one's daily routine, whether that involves active, professional, or social engagements. Choosing colors that hide everyday stains or are suitable for multiple settings can streamline wardrobe functionality.

Heather Riggs [19:30]: “If you are looking for neutrals that are gonna hide stains and work for the playground or busy days with your kiddos, you might need to switch that up.”

5. Practical Steps to Building a Neutral-Based Wardrobe

Heather provides actionable advice on integrating neutrals into one's existing wardrobe:

1. Inventory Current Neutrals: Assess which neutrals are frequently worn and beloved.
2. Identify Gaps: Determine which new neutrals could complement and enhance the existing collection.
3. Evaluate Compatibility: Ensure new neutrals align with skin tone, personal style, and lifestyle needs.

She suggests starting with two to four neutrals, including:

• One Dark Neutral: Options like espresso, charcoal, or deep burgundy.
• One Light Neutral: Such as ivory, taupe, or a soft apricot.
• One or Two Colored Neutrals: Incorporating hues like olive or caramel to add personality.

Heather Riggs [26:00]: “Consider adding just two to four neutrals to start. And I do think it's smart if you choose one dark neutral... and then think about adding one light neutral.”

Heather also highlights the flexibility of her customized personal color palettes, which offer a foundation for building a versatile and lasting wardrobe.

6. Embracing a Personalized Neutral Palette

Heather emphasizes that neutrals are not one-size-fits-all. By tailoring neutral choices to individual preferences and requirements, women can create a unique and cohesive wardrobe that exudes confidence and style.

Heather Riggs [33:15]: “Your neutrals might be subtle, but when they're done right, they will become an essential foundation on which your whole wardrobe and outfits are built.”

7. Conclusion and Encouragement

Wrapping up, Heather encourages listeners to experiment with different neutrals, ensuring their wardrobe reflects their true selves and supports their daily lives with ease and elegance.

Heather Riggs [37:50]: “This week I want you to go explore, experiment, have some fun, and find the base colors that make you feel more excited than ever to get dressed.”

Key Takeaways

• Expand Your Neutral Palette: Move beyond traditional neutrals to include a variety of muted tones that complement your personal color palette.
• Use Strategic Filters: Select neutrals based on personal coloring, style, and lifestyle to ensure they enhance and streamline your wardrobe.
• Build a Versatile Foundation: Incorporate a balanced mix of dark, light, and colored neutrals to create a cohesive and adaptable wardrobe framework.
• Embrace Individuality: Tailor your neutral choices to reflect your unique personality and lifestyle needs, fostering a sense of confidence and ease in daily dressing.

Next Steps

For listeners seeking deeper personalization, Heather invites them to join the HER Style Collective, a 90-day group coaching program that offers a custom personal color palette and guidance in curating a dream wardrobe tailored to individual needs.

Heather Riggs [40:30]: “If you're ready to get clarity on your most flattering colors, including the perfect neutrals for you, then I would love to invite you to join us inside Her Style Collective.”

By redefining neutrals and providing a structured approach to selecting the right base colors, Episode 255 equips women with the knowledge and tools to confidently navigate their wardrobe choices, ultimately fostering a style that is both practical and uniquely their own.