I can't believe how helpful this is to me -- thank you all so much!!
I think the general consensus is that most blues still look good, but the majority seem to agree that on the whole, the darker, richer blues are a surer bet, and the solids appear more popular than most of the prints, although the sharp architectural print of the Aritzia shirt is very flattering. I think that's partly to do with colour placement, and partly to do with the fact that the angles suit my facial structure and personality.
Angie, I'm keeping my eye open for bright colour at NAS. Fire engine red might be tough to find, but I know I can also wear orchid, magenta, fuchsia, purples, cranberry, burgundy, and more. My eyes are on the lookout!
And yes, that is so true, you have to see colour in relationship.
Summer, that is so interesting. I think our colouring must be very similar indeed. I read somewhere that quite a few "true summers" end up as "true winters" or simply as "cool" seasons -- with the coolest tones from summer's and winter's palette. That sounds pretty accurate to me.
AV, you are not a spanner. I thought I agreed with you at first but in the end, the lighting was so different for those photos and in person the top felt great with the grey hair -- really surprisingly great. It's quite icy, which I think is key .
Re the chambray -- I am in agreement with those who think it is slightly less good than before...but...the dress is such a great dress, and a keeper. The shirt is a slightly different hue and maybe not quite as good. (I bought that dress THREE YEARS ago -- really getting on top of the trend, no? I love it.)
Lyn, thank you, and now I have to go count. Are we talking year round closet and including denim? If so, I know for sure I have more than 48 blue items. If denim is off the list, we might be tied. Either way, we are Queen Blue North America and Queen Blue Oz.
Lisa, I know -- I am sorry I didn't style those outfits. I can't count the number of times I've said to a new member re a K/R post -- "can't tell until you style it!!!" I agree about that dress. The colour is not quite right any more but the fit and vibe is awesome.
Isabelle -- you bet it is. Imagine the financial disaster that would await if I could not wear blue any more!