Be a Fellow in Yellow

The November 2012 issue of GQ magazine has a fashion layout titled “In Living Color” on page 166 and 167 that features actor Damon Wayans Jr. as the model. I am sure the nod to his father’s old TV series of the same name was deliberate, but the title also points to one of the hottest colors for men this fall: yellow.

The magazine gives a heads-up that “You’re gonna see everything from cords to sweaters to bags” in this color that will “spice up your fall look.” It also mentions this sunny shade can go by different names like mustard, ochre, and electric yellow. I think you can also add taxicab, lemon, and canary to the list for descriptions of this color. What is interesting is that no matter what you call it, for most folks the same shade of yellow usually comes to mind.

I am a little surprised to see this color for fall, and although it’s a lovely shade, it’s not a favorite of mine. However, I do think bright yellow is an interesting choice for several reasons. The fashion powers that be surely must have their own official rhyme or reason, but since this shade was popular for women over the warmer months, it could be considered a bit poetic that it’s popular for men for the cooler weather that is coming.

Yellow isn’t a color I would choose; I find it a bit intimidating, but my hat goes off to any guy willing to try to work it into his fall wardrobe. This color is pretty, but it can be a bit themed; I can’t help but think of rain gear, kids’ clothing, and costumes, but on the flip side, it is definitely attention-getting. I think it looks nice on most skin tones and it definitely has a cheery effect, which will be nice when the weather turns gray.

GQ shows several larger pieces of clothing like pants, a sweater, a hoodie, and even a gorgeous oversized tote that caught my eye, but you or your guy may want to start with something smaller, like a watch or perhaps a sporty, athletic-type jacket. A scarf, socks, or even a tie would be a good choice, but don’t let me stop you if you want to jump into this trend with both feet and opting for an official cold weather coat in living color.