The Amsterdammer

Orange you glad to have stumbled upon this article, to what is known as the week after the “unfortunate faux pas” – King’s Day!

The Netherlands’ annual King’s Day celebration is a scene set with hyped ‘Dutchies’ prancing up and down the canals, in a beer-infused mist of orange, the color of the Dutch royal family’s House of Orange. The royal connection might help explain the Dutch’s appreciation for this bold color to bemused foreigners. Remarkably, it is the only time and place, where wearing orange will help you fit in.

Incidentally, the forecast shows that Mercury retrograde has ended in the ‘Fashion House’, bringing versatility and excitement to this unlikely shade. With ‘Gen Z yellow’ having recently taken over everyone’s Instagram feed, it is now time to graduate onto “Neon Orange.” Take it from the professionals, this colour is in full-effect, with appearances at Fenty x Puma and Versace SS18.

That being said, let me shamelessly share with you some tips on how to continue to take on this challenge, after King’s Day. However, prior to providing a prescription, I must assert that symptoms may include, but are not limited to: Eye redness, nausea, dizziness, and a loss of appetite.

STYLING TIPS

DENIM DUO: As you ease your way into this new dimension, I suggest opting for a good pair of jeans. This will make you feel more comfortable when experimenting with a louder top. This casual ensemble looks best with a pair of white jeans and a burnt orange top or jacket. This could also be a great opportunity for you to show off a deep, cool graphic-tee.

WEATHER WOMAN: With an average of 217 rainy days (> 0.1 mm of rainfall) per year, it comes as no surprise that this past Saturday brought showers. That being so, living in Amsterdam provides you the perfect opportunity to sport a neon orange raincoat or windbreaker. Paired with an all-black ensemble, this high contrast look will have you standing out from the crowd. Some will praise your bold combo, while others shiver in jealousy of your practicality.

FOOT FETISH: The past few years have given rise to the oddity of the sneaker, but recent trends show a private love-affair with Neon Kicks. I call this, The Great Compromise: stick to your regular palette of colours when it comes to your clothing, but then accentuate the look with a bold pair of shoes. With “versatility” being an underrated advantage, these sneakers come in different shades, patterns, and designs – with some carrying only hints of the bright tone.

That being said, whatever you do, don’t tone down your outfit! Take notes from King’s Day, where being flashy with colour is celebrated in unity. In any case, if the aforementioned symptoms persist, seek the nearest bar, and down a Heineken. The after-effects, known as “Beer goggles,” should help in absorbing all that orange!