Turquoise: A Love (Hate) Story

I’m obsessed with turquoise right now, not because I love it, and not because it’s Pantone’s color of the year for 2010. To be honest, I actually think it’s kind of naff. While perusing my picks for this very post, I swear I developed a headache based solely on the fact that it’s an obnoxious assault on the eyes, especially in large doses. To me it isn’t the restful color of the Caribbean, rather a startling flashback to my 80′s middle school days, when you couldn’t swing a dead cat without hitting a bubbly Madonna-wanna-be in turquoise leggings and a matching, over sized, Minnie Mouse bow nestled in her perm. The twist? I’m into it for the very same reasons.

Naff-ness aside, since turquoise hasn’t been key in fashion for a while it looks new to my eye, and I’m slowly but surely assimilating into it’s garish world. Head to toe? Not so much, but I find it modern and refreshing in small doses. To ease your way in start with accessories, an area where you don’t have to spend a lot to figure out if you want to go bigger. It’s also an amazing swimsuit color, and the beach is an arena that can handle it; avoid combining it with corny florals, lest you end up looking like your Old Navy-clad two year old, a Hawaiian tourist, or both. Choosing pieces with turquoise accents is another option, and for those of you not in love with the blinding version, opt for a more muted interpretation. Whether you choose to wear it or not, it bugs me – but I dig it. Maybe I’m just a masochist. Are you…?

[Click image below to view its Polyvore page including items in this set.]

L.A. Stylist Mom has worked as a wardrobe stylist for celebrities, recording artists, television, and editorial for over 10 years. She currently lives and works in Los Angeles, and is available for consultation either in person, or on line. You can contact her at contact@lastylistmom.com.