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Green Can Make You Look Like A Million Bucks

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Don't be afraid to get your green on - but just be sure to pick the right shade for your skin and hair type.

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By CLOE CABRERA | The Tampa Tribune

Published: March 11, 2009

Do you always seem to find yourself scrambling to find something that's both green and stylish to wear on St. Patrick's Day?

Do you usually settle on some cheesy sweater because your only alternative was a tacky leprechaun brooch from Walgreens?

Well, I'm here to tell you St. Patty's can be a fashionable day. I happen to love green and I happily wear it throughout the year in everything from emeralds (faux) to undies.

The color green signifies hope and rebirth, says Deborah Kent, owner of Deborah Kent's Women's Apparel & Shoes in South Tampa.

And there's a green for everyone.

How can you tell which hue works for you? Kent suggests holding the color to your face; if it picks up your eye color and makes your skin pop, it works. If it drains your face of color, you will immediately know it's not for you.

If you're a redhead, go with a strong green like emerald, olive or forest green. Those hues will make your hair sizzle. For blondes, it's all about juicy lime greens. And if you're like me, mint and emerald green will light up your face.

"Chartreuse [yellow-green] is a great shade," Kent says. "Most people think they can't wear chartreuse, but when they try it, they see they can. It's very versatile."

To avoid looking like the Jolly Green Giant, never wear head to toe green, she warns. Pair green clothing items with beige, white or black patent accessories. And match green tops or bottoms with neutrals: lighter greens with beige or white, deep greens with black or other jewel tones such as blue.

For a fresh take on green this spring, break all the rules and mix emerald with beige and neon-lime with purple.

If you're not willing to invest in green clothing, jewelry is an option. Remember Angelina Jolie's dazzling emerald earrings and ring at this year's Oscars? Wow.

Or how about some green eye makeup? OK, I know some of you are cringing right now, but no matter your age, you can make green work. The key for us older gals is a light touch; use the color as a liner or barely swipe it on your lids.

Just don't try to match your green eye shadow to your clothing. You could wind up looking like a leprechaun — or a female impersonator!

Go to www.azdressup.com/holidays/st--patrick-s-day-fashi... for a cool St. Patrick's Day fashion game that allows you to create different looks.

Pick your favorite pants or skirt, blouse, shoes and accessories like hats and sunglasses, and drag them over to your avatar; click on the "I like it" key to see how many people have a similar flair for fashion.

If that doesn't inspire you, check out some of our favorite green looks on this page. But hurry — the pinching begins Tuesday!

Reporter Cloe Cabrera can be reached at (813) 259-7656 or ccabrera@tampatrib.com. Try on the blog at keyword Hot Pursuits for all things fashion and beauty.

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