As helpful as it is to understand universal colors, rarely do any of us wear only a single color. That’s where understanding color combinations comes in! As you grow in confidence when it comes to pairing colors, you won’t be limited to what designers have combined into prints; you can learn to pair classic, solid-color pieces into attractive, trendy combinations on your own, expanding the possibilities of your existing wardrobe.
Color Pairing for Beginners
Color coordinating isn’t an exact science, since there’s definitely artistic taste involved. However, there are some basic rules to guide you, based on the color wheel. Once you have a basic understanding of primary, secondary, and tertiary colors; warm and cool hues; and complementary, triadic, analogous combinations, you’ll be just about ready to roll! Color combinations can also fall into the categories of contrasting or harmonizing. Sharply contrasting light/dark color combinations such as black and white generally create an aggressive vibe; by contrast, harmonizing colors are more calming and offer a sense of stability and warmth. If you’re a sales person, for instance, you won’t want to choose contrasting color combinations.
Basic Blues
From dark to light blue, this color offers plenty of versatility when it comes to color combinations. The key is to pair the right shade of blue with another color. Pastel blue, for instance, can help create an eye-catching look when paired with an equally light-colored pink. These muted complementary colors create a soft, spring-worthy look. But don’t think that pastels have to mean a completely light-colored ensemble. These subtle shades can also be used to soften an otherwise all-black outfit or can be layered with other pastel colors with white or other light neutral colors.
Building on the same complementary color concept, a darker blue such as navy can be paired perfectly with red. By combining dark-wash jeans with a red jacket, you can turn an otherwise casual look into a smart, sexy ensemble that’s still just as comfortable as any other color. The French style of a Breton striped shirt relies on this stylish color combination. But don’t forget that you can draw attention to these rich colors by combining them with a bright white as well.
Bold Blues
Another blue combination that relies on the analogous concept, cobalt blue can be combined with turquoise for a bright, fun ensemble that doesn’t require any additional colors. With or without a light neutral to break it up, this ombre-esque look can be paired with your choice of either gold or silver accessories for a slightly exotic, celebratory ensemble.
For a color-blocking concept, orange and blue can be combined for a bold, fun look. From burnt orange with navy to brighter versions of those colors, light neutrals can combine with them for the appeal of a gorgeous sunset.
For more trending color combinations, check out Part 2.
Penny Pincher Boutique
We’re Westchester’s luxury consignment shop offering women’s designer clothing, jewelry, shoes, handbags and much more. Visit our shop at 184 Harris Road in Bedford Hills, New York or visit us online at www.pennypincherboutique.com. You can also find a selection of our items on sale on eBay. We ship throughout the United States.
Images are from the Penny Pincher Boutique Instagram page and may represent items previously available.
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