What To Wear With: Yellow (Or Mimosa, Or Lemongrass, Or…)

At Tuesday's inauguration, Michelle Obama wowed the fashion world – and the whole world – with a yellow Isabel Toledo dress and jacket ensemble. While the color was officially lemongrass (such a bipartisan color name!) it looked yellow on most of our television screens and has prompted many of our readers to ask how one could pull off the citrusy hue if you don't have the First Lady's stature, complexion, or personal access to Ikram's designer roster. Below are three ways to ease into the color of the year.

A sunny yellow blouse ($60) would be a welcome change from the cubicle-matching clothes everyone else wears. Pair it with a pale grey skirt ($55.30) and tights ($12). Grey is the perfect color to wear with yellow, because it contrasts the brightness without causing the bumble bee effect, as black would. Add some hip booties ($133) and an embellished cuff ($375), preferably with a green colored stone. M-Obama knew what she was doing wearing green with yellow – the two complement each other perfectly. 

For a more casual vibe, accent a crisp yellow shift dress ($695) with some masculine riding boots ($652) and a soft cream cardigan ($27). The two muted colors will tone down the severity of the yellow. Accessorize with a masculine watch ($226), and add a sharp patterned scarf ($98) for warmth and attitude.

For Casual Friday, try out a pair of yellow ballet flats ($98) with your favorite skinny jeans ($159) and a green fitted cardigan sweater ($285). For that finishing touch, belt with a vintage-esque brown belt ($59).