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Pretty in pink

Pull off shades of pink without looking too feminine or girly

How do I wear pink without looking too girly?

It is possible this season, thanks to how designers have presented the colour in ways that are anything but feminine and girly.

For Spring 2016, designers such as Jason Wu and Isa Arfen have given the colour a tougher spin by presenting it in structural shapes and exaggerated ruffles, styled with tailored separates like a white shirt. The look is still woman, but strong and confident.

Ms Hazel Ng, a personal shopper at Tangs department store, shares some tips on how to wear pink without looking too girly or feminine:

• Throw in a masculine element

PHOTOS: BEYOND THE VINES, COS, TOPSHOP, IN GOOD COMPANY

Incorporate a structured blazer, vest or tapered pants when wearing pink. Materials such as leather or suede will also make your outfit more edgy and less sweet.

• Use pink as an accessory

Add a hint of pink to a monochrome or earth-toned outfit.

For example, a bright fuchsia pink statement necklace will go nicely with a grey dress, while a pair of coral pink wedges will complement denim jeans.

But avoid wearing bright pink accessories with neon or other loud colours as it can have an overwhelming effect.

• Pay attention to the fabric

Go for heavier fabrics such as thick cotton in a structured cut, instead of light, flowy material such as chiffon.

• Prints matter

When wearing pink, avoid designs that have lace or floral and polka- dot prints as these can look too sweet and feminine. Instead, go for stripes or abstract prints.

• Colour play

Mix pink with colours such as grey, khaki or navy - mixing the hue with more earthy colours will tone down its feminine aspect.

Here are some suggestions from The Straits Times:

1. Front wrap trousers, $69, from Beyond The Vines

Wear a cropped top or tuck in your shirt to show off the knot detail at the waist.

2. Pink vest-blazer with side split, $275, from Cos

Pair this blazer-style sleeveless vest with a pair of cropped grey trousers.

3. Printed midi skirt, $139, from Topshop

The print and colour of this skirt is bright and punchy. Dress it down with a plain navy T-shirt and white sneakers, or pair it with a smart white shirt.

4. Maxine fuchsia braided necklace, $129, from In Good Company at Kapok at National Design Centre

This black and pink necklace looks cool and edgy. Wear it as a statement piece with a grey dress.

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A version of this article appeared in the print edition of The Straits Times on February 18, 2016, with the headline Pretty in pink. Subscribe