One of the joys of lagenlook dressing is its freedom. There are no rigid rules, no prescribed silhouettes, and no need to dress for anyone but yourself. Yet even within that relaxed, layered aesthetic, colour plays a powerful role. The right palette can transform a loose linen tunic and wide-leg trousers into a considered outfit that feels both expressive and effortless.

We often think about colour in terms of stories. Rather than isolated pieces, we build outfits around palettes that work together, allowing you to mix, match and layer with confidence. Two of the most versatile colour families in lagenlook styling are neutrals and jewel tones. Each tells a very different story - and both can be endlessly interchangeable.

Here’s how to build lagenlook outfits by palette, using flexible “palette boards” and carefully chosen accessories to complete the look.

Thinking in Palette Boards, Not Outfits

Before diving into specific colours, it helps to shift how you think about getting dressed. Instead of planning one outfit at a time, imagine creating a palette board, a small collection of garments that all work together in colour, texture and mood.

A palette board might include:

• Two or three tops in related tones
• One or two layering pieces such as a cardigan, jacket or waistcoat
• A pair of trousers or a skirt
• A dress that can be worn alone or layered

Because everything sits within the same colour family, each piece can be swapped around without clashing. This approach is particularly well suited to lagenlook, where layers are key and proportions are fluid.

The Quiet Confidence of Neutrals

Neutral palettes are the backbone of many lagenlook wardrobes, and for good reason. Shades such as stone, oatmeal, taupe, charcoal, soft grey and black create outfits that feel calm, modern and wearable across seasons.

Building a Neutral Palette Board

Start with variation rather than uniformity. A successful neutral palette relies on contrast in tone and texture, not colour alone. Combine light and dark neutrals to create depth, and mix fabrics to keep the look interesting.

A loose linen tunic in soft oatmeal might pair beautifully with charcoal harem trousers. Add a mid-grey oversized cardigan or a draped jacket, and you instantly have a layered look that feels intentional rather than plain.

Because neutrals are inherently interchangeable, you can easily rotate pieces. Swap the cardigan for a sleeveless gilet in taupe, or layer a long black shirt dress over trousers for a more dramatic silhouette.

Accessories for Neutral Looks

Accessories are where neutral palettes really come to life. With a muted base, you have freedom to play with shape and material.

Chunky necklaces in brushed metal, wooden beads or matte ceramics add structure without overwhelming the outfit. Scarves in soft greys or subtle patterns can introduce movement, while oversized leather or fabric bags in black or tan ground the look.

Footwear works best when it echoes the palette - think soft leather boots, relaxed trainers or slouchy ankle boots in neutral tones. The aim is cohesion, not contrast.

The Rich Expression of Jewel Tones

Where neutrals whisper, jewel tones sing. Deep emerald, sapphire blue, ruby, amethyst and rich teal bring warmth and personality to lagenlook silhouettes, without sacrificing sophistication.

Building a Jewel Tone Palette Board

The key to working with jewel tones is restraint. Rather than using every rich colour at once, choose one or two dominant shades and support them with complementary tones.

For example, a deep teal oversized tunic can anchor your palette. Pair it with wide-leg trousers in navy or deep plum, then add a layering piece in charcoal or black to balance the richness. A jewel-toned dress can also act as a statement layer over trousers, particularly when left open at the front.

Texture plays an important role here. Soft jersey, crinkled cotton and washed linen help jewel tones feel relaxed rather than formal. The lagenlook silhouette keeps the colours grounded and wearable.

Accessories for Jewel Tone Looks

Accessories should enhance, not compete with, the palette. Scarves in tonal shades (perhaps a slightly lighter or darker version of your main colour) work beautifully.

Metallic accents such as antique gold or bronze jewellery complement jewel tones especially well. Long pendants, layered necklaces or statement cuffs add visual interest without breaking the flow of colour.

When it comes to bags and shoes, neutral shades like black, charcoal or dark brown keep the focus on the clothing, while still tying the outfit together.

Mixing Neutrals and Jewel Tones

One of the most effective styling approaches is combining both palettes. Neutrals act as a canvas, allowing jewel tones to shine.

A black or stone base outfit can be transformed with a single jewel-toned layer - a rich green cardigan, a deep blue scarf, or a plum tunic. This makes outfits feel more versatile and allows you to transition easily from day to evening.

From a palette board perspective, this means you don’t need two completely separate wardrobes. A core collection of neutrals can support several jewel-toned statement pieces, multiplying your outfit options.

Let Accessories Finish the Story

In lagenlook dressing, accessories are not an afterthought - they’re part of the narrative. Whether you’re working with neutrals or jewel tones, accessories help define the mood of your outfit.

Scarves soften lines and add movement. Jewellery introduces structure and personality. Bags and footwear anchor the look and keep it practical for everyday wear.

When choosing accessories, think in terms of balance. If your outfit is voluminous, opt for longer, streamlined jewellery. If your layers are minimal, a bold necklace or textured scarf can take centre stage.

Dressing with Confidence and Creativity

Building outfits by palette takes the pressure out of getting dressed. It allows you to focus on creativity rather than rules, and it makes your wardrobe work harder for you.

Whether you’re drawn to the understated elegance of neutrals or the expressive richness of jewel tones, lagenlook offers the freedom to explore colour in a way that feels authentic and wearable.

We believe great style starts with comfort and confidence - and colour is one of the most powerful tools you have to tell your own story.