Wake up your working wardrobe with alternatives to blue!

In my experience most men have a high proportion of blue in their wardrobe, especially if working in a formal environment. It's not that I don't like blue, but sometimes it's nice to shake things up a bit and add in some fresh colours as an alternative. Here I've explored some other ideas and options:

Update your work wardrobe with an Eton yellow striped shirt which looks fresh and Springlike. When combining stripes, make sure to contrast the size of them for a harmonious look. This wide stripe navy and yellow one, also from Eton, is perfect.

A smart green gingham check shirt from J.Crew adds variety to your wardrobe. If wearing a patterned tie, choose a widely spaced pattern so things don't get too busy. This navy scorpion print one from Richard James at Mr Porter will add a touch of sting to your style.

Pink will easily slot into a mainly blue wardrobe and in a candy stripe from Paul Smith it's a failsafe option. Combine with a dusty blue and pink striped tie  - again in a wider contrasting stripe for a soft and stylish finish to your office attire.

This multi coloured gingham shirt from Etro at Mr Porter will add a bold vibrancy to a dark suit. The fresh blue of the wool, silk and linen mix tie from those masters of neckwear Drake's, adds a nonchalant touch.

This mint green subtly checked and spotted shirt from Eton is a good substitute for blue but still office appropriate. The larger star medallion pattern on this J.Crew green tie makes an elegant partner to the shirt and would also work well with pale blue, white and lilac.

Pastels are big news this summer and this handsome lilac stripe from Emmett fits the bill nicely. The square print tie, also from Emmett, keeps the shapes geometric and will look great when paired with a navy suit.