Selecting the right clothes is just one piece of the fashion puzzle. Color coordination plays a crucial role in creating stylish and harmonious ensembles.
Understanding which colors complement each other can elevate your outfits from ordinary to extraordinary. In these guides, I’ll share real-world examples of color combinations, showcasing how different colors work together in various outfits.
From matching shoes to suits and shirts to jeans, discover the art of color coordination and elevate your wardrobe.
THE COLOUR WHEEL
While the color wheel is a helpful tool for understanding color relationships, it can be overly simplistic when applied to fashion. The concept of complementary colors, which are opposite each other on the color wheel, may be too bold for most outfits.
A more practical approach is to use analogous colors, which are adjacent to each other on the color wheel. This creates a harmonious and visually pleasing effect.
If color coordination still feels daunting, consider using one of the staple colors—black, white, gray, or navy—as your base. These versatile colors pair well with a wide range of other hues, making it easier to create stylish outfits.
COLOUR THEORY
When your main piece of clothing is black or white, you have the flexibility to pair it with virtually any color. Unlike the traditional color wheel, which is primarily used in art, fashion requires a more tailored approach.
A common strategy is to choose a base color and then select a complementary secondary color. You can further enhance your outfit with an accent color, typically used for accessories like ties or pocket squares.
For optimal color balance, consider the 60-30-10 rule: 60% for the main color, 30% for the secondary color, and 10% for the accent color.
A classic example is a navy suit outfit. Navy serves as the main color, while a white shirt is the secondary color. The accent colors, such as a tie or pocket square, can add a pop of interest to the ensemble.
Remember, shoes also play a significant role in completing your outfit, adding another element to consider in your color coordination.
