TIPS FROM A BARBIE CHICK: Seeing red

A red jacket makes a bold statement with minimal effort.

Nothing says date night like a red-hot minidress. But one thing I’ve learned from working in retail is most women shy away from red immediately because they don’t know how to wear it, which is ironic because red is one of the most universally attractive colors for everyone — the trick is finding the right shade and fabric for you without looking over-the-top or worse, like a tomato.

Wearing red is simple once you know the basic rules. If you are fair-skinned, stay away from extremely bright reds and stick to darker vampy tones. For those not so fair-skinned, feel free to go for bright colors that will really help you glow. It’s important to pay attention to fabrics and cuts; red very easily can look trashy, so opt for something in a classic style that hugs your body rather than a tiny strapless minidress. With this color, it’s best to leave a little something to the imagination; it will come off a lot sexier.

Make sure to choose gold, not silver, jewelry since it will pop much better against a red background and look much more classy. If you want to go all-out red with a dress, be prepared to be the center of the attention all night. Adding black accessories such as a blazer or tights to a red outfit mutes down the tones and looks effortlessly chic.

If wearing all red still makes you think of a lobster, start off small. Even red heels for your next night out is a feminine accessory that never gets old. Something such as a bag, jacket or simple bracelet in red can help you get more comfortable wearing this crimson color. Even the traditional red lips or nails are the best way to go if you aren’t comfortable going all out just yet.

Needless to say, a hint of red is the perfect thing to wear on a date because the color has been known to encourage confidence by wearing it. While it is not a color for wallflowers, when worn correctly, it can give you a whole different persona for the night — which is just what every woman, single or attached, needs on date night.