The colour purple

The colour purple - what's hot for 2008

The colour purple is a combination of two primary colours - red and blue. In medieval Europe, blue dyes were rare and expensive, so only the wealthiest or the aristocracy could afford to wear them. And as blue was needed to make up purple dye, purple became associated with the rich, royalty and luxury - and it was often called 'royal purple'.

Nowadays there are many shades of purple such as lilac, mauve, lavender and violet and they are all amongst this season's hottest colours. The best news is that it's also a colour that looks great on most people, it's flattering to the figure and the deeper, darker shades exude luxury.

There's plenty of chic purple on The Clothes Agency and by clicking here you can find them all together!

Purple enhances fabrics such as satin, silk, brocade, velvet and feathers, adding to their opulence and richness.

Try this stunning creation from Bruce Oldfield - fashioned from rich, plush velvet and silk taffeta, it has a deep, plunge neckline to the front and a V-neckline to the back. The bodice is ruched from the centre in the most flattering style and it continues down past the hips finished with a silk full skirt with net underneath to give it true body. Fully lined in silk, it's one not to be missed!

You can view this dress by clicking here.

Of course you can combine purple with other colours, such as pink or orange, in bold patterns that hail from the fifties, sixties and seventies - and this look will keep you right on trend through to this summer and onto the autumn. So, whether looking for dresses, tunics, skirts and shorts for women, or shirts and shorts for men, bold patterns will keep you chic this year!

But, no outfit would be complete without accessories to match and there will be no shortage of purple handbags and shoes on offer this year. Have a look at these stunning, vintage purple court shoes from Bruce Oldfield, which are fashioned from deep purple velvet with a gold lining. They have a low cut front and a gently pointed toe shape. The heels are covered in a satin fabric and the soles are leather. FABULOUS!

Click here to view these elegant shoes.

Then, to continue the theme, why not team them up with this gorgeous velvet and satin vintage handbag from Rayne (by Royal Appointment no less!).

This lovely bag is made from a plush, purple velvet and has a flap over closure with a chic V-shape to the front, trimmed in purple satin. It has a popper fastening and a detachable, silver coloured, fine curb chain strap, so it can be used as a shoulder bag as well as a clutch bag. Neat and fashionable at 9.5" by 6" there is plenty of room for your lipstick and mobile phone. What more could a girl want!

Click here to view this gorgeous bag.

And finally, how about this seriously purple and seriously elegant Escada raincoat.. A real head-turner that will give you ultimate chic and warmth...

The purple fabric has a unique dapple and it is styled in a double breasted cut, with a turn-back collar, flaps to the front and has a flared skirt with a button up back vent. It has two button down pockets to the front and is fully lined. It has a belt and ties to the cuffs.

Wear it buttoned up with the belt tied as in the picture, or open for a more casual look over a sweater and jeans or trousers.

You can view this item in our 'Gifts - for that special occasion' section by clicking here.

Happy Purpley New Year!

Serena
Fashion Editor

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