Beige: the “non-color” symbol of “quiet luxury”
Some people love it madly and some people hate it radically: beige is one of the most divisive colors ever. If there is one thing that is certain, it is that it is a unique color within the spectrum. It cannot be defined as warm or cold in an absolute way, since it has the deep vibrations of brown but also the cold rigidity of white. Simply its tone and the way in which it is perceived varies based on the other nuances that surround it.
Another characteristic of beige is the atmosphere of indeterminacy. In fact, it is not possible to obtain a total and objective “beige”, being the result of the mixture of two primary colors such as yellow and white . For this reason, many consider it a “non-color” , rather a particular shade or nuance. Yet beige is able to arouse crazy vibes and has so many things to say, especially when we choose it for our outfits. In this article, we will discover all its secrets and see how you can elevate your style using it.
The rise of a poor dye
As we had previously told you, beige has a certain amount of “mystery” that can leave you confused. Even Treccani, in its dedicated entry, expressed itself laconically, writing: "it has an uncertain etymology”.
If we want to delve deeper, we realize that this term had its own specific value: starting from the 13th century, it was used in French-speaking countries to indicate the color of pure wool , before it underwent bleaching or dyeing processes. At that time, beige did not have a positive connotation: it was perceived as something “dirty” , just like the coat of sheep in the wild.
The “poor beige”, therefore, saw its dawn in an unfortunate way but its destiny took an unexpected turn. The turning point and the rise can be traced back to the twentieth century, when fashion began to appropriate this pale shade to gradually insert it into the collections.
The phenomenon of stardom , then, did the rest. The characters of the big screen began to wear clothes in this neutral nuance as a variant of cream. The unrivaled charm that it exerted on "common people" gave this color a new meaning : wearing beige became the incarnation of elegance in its purest form and above all an expression of wealth . Furthermore, from being considered just a banal shade it was "promoted" to a real color.
Psychology of Beige: What Emotions Does It Arouse?
If we had just one word to tell you what feeling this strange shade between white and brown gives, it would be “hug”. Exactly, beige first of all stimulates oxytocin, the love hormone that makes us feel safe. Not very invasive, reassuring, silent: it is the color you would give to a good dose of cuddles full of understanding.
Secondly, it also activates the GABA which is essential in the inhibition of the central nervous system for the slowing down of nervous activity. It basically reduces anxiety and stress, calming our synapses and the electrical activity they produce when we are agitated, giving us immediate comfort.
Being a delicate tone, it does not trigger emotional variations. It is no coincidence, therefore, that it is widely used to paint walls to promote that “sense of home”, concentration and the formulation of critical thinking. Finally, beige is also the color of the earth, sand and stone, natural elements that bring to mind the concept of stability. It tells us about our roots and is often associated with wisdom or simplicity.
Photo by Karolina Grabowska
What do you say if you wear beige?
Contrary to popular belief, beige is not a boring color, much less monotonous. In some cultures, it is the main color of modesty. In Saudi Arabia, for example, the outer layer of long traditional dresses tends towards beige to indicate a person's grace and humility.
In the Western conception, however, it is used by individuals who have a strong and concrete personality , typical of those who have full confidence in their own means without needing external factors such as clothing to express themselves in society. It shows the desire to emerge and make oneself different through positive qualities, avoiding appearing eccentric.
For these reasons, it expresses the reliability and discreet empathy of people who aim for sincere friendships . Being the chosen color of concentration, it tells us a lot about the ability to work hard of those who choose it. It triggers a sense of trust in the interlocutor , leading him to think that the subject can complete tasks and projects with commitment.
Wearing this shade gives, in short, a sophisticated, elegant and decisive allure, which embodies the charm of those who never give in to exhibitionism .
Social trends and possible stereotypes
The versatility of beige and its fabulous adaptation to key wardrobe items has meant that this color has forcefully entered people's closets and homes. Beige has redefined the idea of luxury , to the point of clogging up users' feeds on social media, Instagram in particular.
Following the most popular hashtags, it has become known that there are various social typologies and related communities to belong to by wearing this nuance . Each of these has precise linguistic codes, therefore it communicates to the world a different self each time, although with a common denominator: timeless elegance. Let's see the 3 most popular prototypes:
- Old Money: it is a style that has fascinated both men and women, characterized by the evocation of the almost inaccessible luxury of nobles or heirs , in short of those who can count on "old money" passed down from generation to generation. Often contrasted with "new money" (young people who have created their own wealth by themselves) it has seen its maximum expression in beige and in the use of vintage or classic garments;
- Vanilla Girl: this style is adopted by young women devoted to minimalism and delicacy . It is a manifestation of candid and clean femininity that communicates through a few small selected accessories and a simple color palette (from cream to camel), shown in her refined clothes;
- Coastal Grandmother: she is the vanilla girl “grown up” who, like the “chic grandmothers”, wears cashmere sweaters and doesn’t bake cakes but takes care of herself . She is the old glossy lady from the movies, the one who lives in English cottages or American houses where her life seems apparently perfect, obviously dressing only in beige.
The aesthetics of beige therefore suggests the well-being of those who can face life with lightheartedness. In this sense we can speak of “quiet luxury”: a quiet luxury characterized by refinement and a desired simplicity , where brands and logos are never ostentatious, because the display leads to “vulgarity”.
50 Shades of Beige: Who Does It Suit?
Beige is a timeless and non-seasonal color , because it can be used in any month of the year. However, there are different shades of this color that enhance different aromatic and chromatic seasons. Let's discover them in detail:
- Sand beige: it is a shade of brown to which a light hint of yellow is added, in addition to white. The result is a vibrant and full color. This variant is perfect for enhancing the warm undertone and low intensity of those who belong to the autumn color harmony season;
- Golden beige: it is a very sophisticated nuance and also warm and brilliant, which recalls the color of gold. For the same reason, it is recommended for autumn;
- Ivory: it is often included in the white palette but, when the yellow notes are replaced by brown ones, it undoubtedly falls into the beige category. This shade is perfect for those who belong to the summer season;
- Greige or Warm Grey: this is the colour used by Giorgio Armani at the 1980 fashion show, which gave him the title of “King of Greige ”. Since 2010, it has reappeared on the scene thanks to Chanel and its “Particuliere” nail polish, which has gone viral. Being a very light shade, it suits those with olive skin, so it is a friendly colour for winter.
- Dove or taupe: the name comes from the tone of the feathers of some wild pigeons. It is a shade of gray mixed with a small amount of light brown. For those who belong to the summer season with medium-low contrast and intensity it will be perfect. This season, in fact, does not support dark colors such as black;
- Camel: It is a light hazelnut with a hint of red with low saturation. It has become very popular as a color for coats for both men and women. The two seasons of the color harmony that come out enhanced are spring and autumn with their warm undertones.
- Vanilla: it is a beige that tends to light yellow, very soft and is not easily wearable by everyone. Spring is definitely the season that goes best with this color. Spring true will be enhanced by its more lively variants, spring deep by the more muted ones, spring soft with the pastel ones.
Photo by Mart Production
Think Beige with T-Switch
Whatever journey you want to take in your world today, beige is an impeccable style choice : neutral and sophisticated, it is a must-have color for those who love to experiment with fashion.
There is another detail , however, that can really elevate your style: T-Switch shoes that , thanks to the possibility of customizing the strap and the tongue, allow you to create unique and original combinations. Whether you are looking for a casual and informal look, or a more elegant and sophisticated one, with our beige T-Kit you will never go wrong!
How to match Beige T-Switches
We have immediately revealed one of our aces up our sleeve, namely the T-Kits. Know that in addition to being beautiful and easy to apply, they are made of neoprene: an elastic, soft and comfortable material. You will be able to customize your shoes in a creative and original way. So, if beige is your favorite color, all you have to do is choose the corresponding strap and tongue to create a unique look in line with the latest trends. The great thing is that you can really use them on any occasion. See for yourself:
- For him: We propose a sophisticated and comfortable choice. Pair the beige T-Switch with a pair of chinos and a light striped shirt . Complete the look with a navy jacket and minimalist steel accessories for an extra touch of class. If you are looking for a more formal outfit, wear the beige T-Switch with a greige suit and a white shirt for an important business meeting.
- For her: our beige T-Switch will find their maximum expression under a classic slim fit trousers cut at the ankle and a delicate satin shirt . Add a tailored blazer and gold jewelry, accompanying the whole thing with a beige leather maxi bag. Alternatively, go all out with a vanilla suit and let our sneakers become the focal point of the outfit.
- For him: To enjoy an easy ride in the city, opt for a casual-chic outfit . Wear the beige T-Switch with a pair of skinny jeans and a white T-shirt or a linen shirt . Add a leather jacket or a denim jacket for a cool and trendy look.
- For her: Beige is the perfect color to create a romantic look. Enjoy our beige T-Switch under a blush pink full skirt, a white silk shirt and a black leather jacket for a sunset date.
- For him: amaze and capture the attention with a suit in the fantastic solaro fabric that on the front comes in a greenish beige color . The beige T-Switch will be the touch of brightness that will certainly make you original.
- For her: Wear beige T-Switches with a black midi dress or tailored separates . Complete the look with glam accessories and a touch of red lipstick like a true fashionista.
Every outfit is like a journey and the beige T-Switch are a real passepartout that exudes vitality and always amazes . With these sneakers you will have a perfect ally whatever your destination.
Article by Alessia Capo