What Colors Go Together? The Best Clothing Combinations

Earlier, we mentioned the versatility of taupe when it comes to wardrobe. And while this color pairs well with other neutrals, you can create a decidedly lively look by pairing it with red.

What Colors Go Well Together: The Secrets to Color Matching

Are you ready for a fashion truth bomb? You may be playing it safe when it comes to wearing color. Pairing hues is a part of everyday life, especially when deciding what to wear in the morning. Don’t restrict your closet to a confined color scheme when there are a plethora of pretty colors you could be adding to your wardrobe rotation. Ladies , have you ever wondered what colors work well together ? If so, you’re not alone. Color matching your clothing may seem like a big mystery, but it doesn’t have to be. That’s where we come in. ​​We’ve done our fair share of sartorial sleuthing, and have answers for your most-perplexing color quandaries. So, buckle up—there’s a world of color out there and it’s time for you to explore it.

Did you know that colors have the power to evoke strong emotions? It’s true— color psychology is a real thing. Let’s dive into a hypothetical situation. Imagine you’re preparing to speak in front of a large audience. Now think about the message you’d like to convey to your listeners through your outfit choice . Wearing cool tones can elicit a sense of peace and tranquility, while warm hues can energize a crowd. It’s also important to take into consideration which colors look best on you . With that being said, color is a powerful tool for expressing your truest self. Wondering where to even begin? Keep reading for a no-fail starting point on what colors go well together with the basics of color theory.

“Colors, like features, follow the changes of the emotions.” — Pablo Picasso

How to Read a Color Wheel

The key to mastering color theory, or the best color combinations , is to understand the color wheel for clothes . Let’s quickly get back to elementary basics. The graphic above illustrates the relationship between primary, secondary and tertiary colors. Primary colors include red, blue and yellow, while secondary hues are the combination of two primary shades.

Do you recall mixing paint colors for the first time as a kid? Red and blue create violet, red and yellow make orange and blue and yellow produce green. Tertiary colors are a mixture of primary and secondary pigments. Easy, right? This handy guide relies on the rainbow of basic colors in order from cool to warm. Typically, the most flattering color combinations are directly across from each other, hence the term, complementary colors . The science behind color theory goes into much greater depth, but nailing these principles is a solid jumping-off point.

The Color Wheel Basics for Clothing

Curious how the color wheel comes into play when styling clothing ? Blue and orange may be an unexpected pairing, but they create the most contrast to one another. In women’s fashion , this rule may not always work for colors that typically go well together . While red and green are complementary colors, it may look like you’re planning a Christmas outfit . Either way, we’re here for the festive vibes. Harmonious colors are those grouped next to one another, such as blue and teal. They offer low contrast but work well together, creating an overall pleasing outfit. While there’s an infinite amount of delightful color couplings, let’s dive into a few of our favorites.

“All colors are the friends of their neighbors and the lovers of their opposites.” — Marc Chagall

What Colors Go Well Together : Start with Neutral Basics

Black, white, brown, beige and grey are core neutrals for women ’s wardrobes . They work tirelessly to blend with literally any other shade under the sun. You can consider them your fuss-free foundation tones when deducing what colors go well together . They even pair well with those trickier statement shades, such as chartreuse. What’s not to love? Take a peek at how we leverage a handful of neutrals to create dynamic outfit duos.

What Colors Go with Brown?

For easy, achromatic outfitting, try pairing brown with black. We think camels with jet blacks look especially divine. If this duet is a bit blasé for your taste, amplify it with a pop of white or red. Aside from matching colors , you also want to have consistency with tones. If opting for a warm brown wool coat, choose a red blouse with yellow undertones instead of hints of blue. Another way to add sass and spunk to the mix is with leopard prints made of brown and black tones. After all, this feline pattern is a neutral and subtle way to walk on the wild side.

Stylist Tip: A general rule of thumb when building an outfit is to stick to three or fewer colors. FYI, white and black don’t count, so you can always lean into them.

What Colors Go Well Together : Navy Blue and Who?

When wondering what colors go with navy blue , take a cue from the color wheel. Remember when we mentioned that orange and navy are prime examples of when opposites attract? They’re naturally nautical mates, especially when stripes slide into the mix. For a modern feel, experiment with color-blocking to make a statement. A navy a-line dress with bold orange strappy heels feels fresh and fun.

On the flip side, this nearly neutral is a close cousin to black, meaning they’re in a similar color family. When you’re deciding what colors go well together , this twosome is a no-brainer. The one caveat being that deep and inky navy hues could create a mismatched look with true black. The trick is to ensure both colors are different tones. Add depth and dimension with textures and luxury fabrics, like silk . Now, kick the “no navy and black” rule to the curb.

What Colors Go with Olive Green?

Olive is a versatile earth-toned neutral color that can be matched with just about any hue. Warm pinks, browns and dusty blues (we’re looking at you, chambray) are good go-to’s with this trend-savvy desert daze star. Are you hoping for a lighter approach when matching colors for clothing ? White is a crisp and clean contender when you’re on the hunt for a stellar color mate for olive. A structured white blouse with slim olive slacks and nude flats is chic sophistication at its finest.

What Color Combinations Work Best with Pastels and Brights?

When it comes to adding color to women’s wardrobes , pretty pastels and bold brights get the job done. Typically, these lively hues are what we think of when we’re looking to make an outfit really pop . When deciphering what colors go well together , these striking shades can be the most persnickety of the bunch. Yes, there’s definitely a way to overdo it on the neons and head-to-toe pastels may wash you out. It’s all about balance, and we’re happy to guide you to the ultimate equilibrium of color.

“I am a believer that color affects people’s moods.” — Lilly Pulitzer

What Colors Go with Pink?

Style alert—all tints of pink and blue go well together as long as they have complementary tones. If you were ever curious about what colors go with pink, there’s your answer. Are you a gal who loves different shades of mauve, blush or hot pink? We encourage you to have fun with this one. For a bold and brilliant combo, opt for a rich cobalt and fuchsia. For a softer feel, try pairing baby pink and cornflower blue. Embrace the cottagecore trend in a midi dress with puff sleeves in a barely-there blue hue with ditsy pink flowers. Lastly, you can’t go wrong by pairing blue jeans with virtually any shade of pink. Keep your look trend-forward with wide-leg denim and square-toe heels. You’ll look pretty in pink in no time.

What Colors Go Well Together : Shades of Purple and Grey

Are you trying to decide what color matches with purple ? Look no further than an expansive range of grey shades. Lavender and light grey is a tone-on-tone color combination that is both smart and serene. Try a sharp sheath dress with lavender slingbacks and you’ll instantly look like a fashionista who knows what they’re doing. For a sparkly twist, add a touch of silver in your jewelry. Do you prefer your outfits to pack a punch? Say goodbye to subdued and hello to standout ensembles with grape and darker greys like charcoal and pewter. The balance of the deeper grey will act as a neutral foundation for bright purple to stand on its own.

What Colors Match with Red and Fuchsia

Fuchsia has already made our list, but we couldn’t leave it out when discussing the colors that match with red . The next time you’re contemplating what colors go well together , opt for this show-stopping fashion duo. You’ll have all eyes on you in a fuchsia and red dress, so it’s perfect for your Valentine’s Day look. Since the main part of the outfit is quite daring, stick to minimal accessories and neutral shoes. Have fun turning heads left and right.

Our Favorite Color Combos for Deeper Tones

There’s no better way to show the world that you’re feeling moody than with jewel tones and rich shades. While you can wear these deeper colors all year long, we especially love them for fall and winter . Think of naturally occurring gemstones such as sapphire, amethyst and ruby, to name a few. The three that made the top of our list today are teal green, burgundy and emerald. These will add a little spice to your nice when you’re searching for colors that go well together . Keep scrolling to find out how we love to style them.

“I found I could say things with color and shapes that I couldn’t say any other way.” — Georgia O’Keeffe

What Colors Go with Burgundy : Blush for the Win

When you’re wondering what colors go with burgundy, reach for a delicate blush hue. Burgundy and blush are within the same color family, so they’re a harmonious choice. They work so well together because they’re on the opposite ends of the saturation spectrum. Blush has a youthful feel, while burgundy swoops in with a sophisticated spirit. This true juxtaposition balances each color nicely. Blush feels feminine , so if you’d like to lean into that, opt for lace detailing. If you’d rather focus on edgy details, try a burgundy leather skirt instead.

What Colors Go Well Together : Teal and Blue

Are you scratching your head when trying to figure out what colors go well with teal green ? Let’s look at Mother Nature. You can find green and blue in the wild, so it’s no surprise that they’re a coupling that’s meant to be. It’s difficult to look at a clear blue sky and lush green trees and not love what you see. Rain or shine, teal green and various shades of blue go hand in hand. A matching teal green jogger and sweatshirt set accented by midnight or cyan blue puts the fresh in re fresh ing.

When styling jewel tones, don’t hesitate to wear shades of one color from head to toe. Yes, when searching for colors that go well together , tonal looks are fashion -forward. Try a light aquamarine blouse tucked into teal trousers. Proportions play a major role as well. Go long on top or bottom, but not both. Not sure what we mean by that? If your long trousers are high-waisted, make sure you tuck in your blouse to help define your waist. This is especially key if you are styling a petite sized frame . Voilà—you’ve conquered tonal outfitting like a pro.

What Colors Go Well Together: Emerald and Metallics

Calling all of our red-haired and fair freckled friends. While emerald looks good on virtually anyone, this gorgeous shade works magic on those with fiery locks. This jewel-toned hue evokes a sense of royalty and vitality. When worn, you can’t help but feel like you’re meant to sit on a throne and rule a kingdom. In order to let this stunning shade shine in the spotlight, pair it with either black or cream. It’s as simple as that. If you want to take it up a notch, a touch of metallic will work wonders as a color combination . Try letting a gold camisole peek through the top of a buttoned emerald blazer. On bottom, go for black jeans or slacks and chunky heeled booties. Don’t forget your crown, queen .

Ready to put your newfound color wheel know-how to use? Take your style quiz and order a Fix to vibrantly revamp your closet. Ask your stylist to send a few color pairings to inject an array of new shades into your wardrobe. Relax as you wait for your five pieces picked just for you. Try your items at home, keep what you like and send back the rest. Looking for one specific style? You can pop into Stitch Fix Freestyle™ to browse and instantly buy items. Either way, shipping, exchanges and returns are always free.

By: Jenny Beltran and Jessica Glass

What Colors Go Together? The Best Clothing Combinations

Your clothes should not just flatter you, but each other as well. That’s why it’s paramount that you know which color combinations work and which don’t.

This handy color combination chart shows you what colors that go together:

I’ve experimented relentlessly how the color theory I learned in design school applies to clothing. (Plus, I have 11 years experience guiding guys in the ways or personal style, so I know a thing or two.)

I’ll share with you the basics of color coordination, give you the easiest color combinations to use, and go through each color on the spectrum to tell you which colors looks best with them.

But first, some of my personal favorites:

What Colors Go Together Well?

These are some of the best color combinations:

1. Navy blue and khaki
2. Black and white
3. Green and earthy browns
4. Burgundy and gray
5. Navy blue and pink
6. Olive green and beige
7. Red and mustard yellow
8. Gray and light pink
9. Dark brown and light blue
10. Blue and cyan
11. Dark green and pink
12. Beige and brown
13. Orange and gray
14. Bright red and army green
15. Red and light blue
16. Charcoal grey and light blue
17. Olive green and navy blue
18. Beige and maroon
19. Red and black
20. Navy and light blue
21. Burgundy and light brown
22. Gray and black
23. Khaki and pastel yellow
24. Red and gray
25. Navy blue and red
26. Blue and turquoise
27. Orange and brown
28. Red and earthy browns
29. Olive green and yellow
30. Yellow and brown
31. Beige and blue
32. Olive green and maroon
33. Burgundy and light blue
34. Dark green and tan
35. Navy blue and mustard yellow
36. Yellow and forest green
37. Navy and white

The Best Clothing Color Combinations for Men

When you learn how to match colors for clothes, the color wheel is a worthwhile tool. Familiarizing yourself with how it looks, and where different colors are placed on the wheel makes it easier for you to create good looking color combos.

The color wheel is a visual guide to the color spectrum. You can see how different colors relate to each other by how far apart they are on the wheel. Understanding the color wheel for clothes can help you create a balanced outfit as a beginner.

Basic Color Coordination Principles

First, you need to learn basic principles of color coordinations. You should familiarize with the following terms:

• Hues are colors in their most pure, vivid form. They are colors at their fullest intensity. You might know them as bold colors.
• Tints are hues that have been mixed with white. You’ll know them as light colors or pastels.
• Shades are hues that have been mixed with black. You’ll know them as dark colors.
• Tones are hues that have been mixed with white and black, creating gray undertones. These are also called muted colors.

When combining colors in your clothes, you should always aim for a contrast in the intensity of your colors.

Analogous Color Combinations

Analogous colors are next to each other on the color wheel. You can easily recognize when colors are analogous, because they look the most alike. These colors are easiest to match because they’re so closely related. Just make sure the colors don’t match too closely, as it will create a mismatched look.

Two colors that have a subtle contrast look deliberately matched. Two colors that look almost the same look like an accident.

Complementary Color Combinations

Complementary colors are opposite each other on the color wheel. They have the strongest contrast between them.

Because complementary colors have such a strong contrast, they are the boldest combination you can make, which can create a color clash if you combine two at too high an intensity. The best way to combine complementary colors is to contrast their brightness. These colors look best together when one is darker or lighter or more muted than the other.

Split complementary is the close cousin of complementary color combos. This is when you combine one color with the color next to its opposite on the wheel, which creates a contrast that’s a bit less intense.

Triadic Color Combinations

Triad colors are a combination of three colors equally distant from each other on the color wheel. Contrary to common perception though, you don’t have to wear all three colors for this combination to work. You can pick two colors from a triad and wear them together.

In fact, beginners should stick to combining two triadic colors rather than attempting to wear all three, as it’s more difficult to pull off and requires a trained eye.

For triad combos as well, make sure to apply some contrast in intensity. They work best when one color is lighter or darker than the other.

Monochromatic Color Combinations

You can also combine colors that all belong to the same hue, but differ in intensity. This creates a monochromatic outfit. For example, pairing light blue with dark blue, or a muted green with light green.

Psst.. If you never want to feel unsure about which clothes can go together, check out Effortless Outfits, my book on the art of matching clothes. I share everything I’ve learned about matching colors, patterns, shoes, accessories, layers and more. You can walk out the door every day looking great and feeling awesome!

What Colors Go with Everything?

Some of the best colors to combine in your outfit are not colors at all. They are called neutrals.

Neutral colors like white, gray, and black go with just about everything, because they are achromatic. In the world of fashion, navy, brown and khaki (and sometimes olive and light blue) are considered neutrals as well, because they also tend to blend with other colors well.

While all neutrals come with some caveats, as we’ll cover further down, you can use them to create easy combinations with other colors.

What Colors Go with Red Clothes?

Red looks great when paired with neutrals like white, black, gray or navy, which make the bold color pop. It also looks great with earthy browns or with contrasting colors blue, yellow and green, as long as you contrast the intensity as well. Mustard yellow, army green and light blue make particularly fetching color combos for red.

What Colors Go with Green Clothes?

Green is not a common color in a man’s wardrobe, but can look great, especially when you choose dark green or olive tones, which look quite flattering on a man.

The easiest combinations for green are white and black, as you can hardly go wrong with those. Green combined with earthy browns creates a look that reminds of nature, and beige looks particularly good with green. Blue and yellow also pair well as its analogous colors, and complementary pink makes a fantastic accent color when paired with dark green.

(Check out my article on what to wear with green pants for more outfit ideas.)

What Colors Go with Yellow Clothes?

Yellow is a color not frequently worn by men. It’s a vibrant color that looks overwhelming on a man when worn in large quantities. It can also make your skin look washed out if you’re not wearing the right kind of yellow, especially when you already have a pale skin tone. For these reasons, most men avoid it altogether.

You can make great color combinations with yellow though. It tends to serve best as an accent color used for accessories. Of course, if you’re bold enough, you can opt for a yellow T-shirt, polo, shorts or even pants. You’ll certainly make a statement. When doing so though, opt for neutral colors like white, brown, black or navy for the rest of your outfit.

Yellow pairs well with green and blue, and works great as an accent color to red or purple clothes (though not many men wear purple either).

What Colors Go with Navy Clothes?

Navy clothes combine well with white and light brown colors like beige or camel. These colors provide an eye-pleasing contrast with the dark hue of navy. Pink, red and orange make fantastic complements to navy clothes and are great colors to use as accents in accessories. (The navy suit with a crisp white shirt and red tie will never go out of style.) Pairing the dark blue with lighter tints of blue creates a soft monochromatic look that’s always a safe bet for men.

Navy is considered neutral because it pairs well with most colors, but the matches above are especially eye-pleasing. When wearing navy clothes, you shouldn’t wear black in large quantities though.

What Colors Go with Burgundy Clothes?

Burgundy is an underused but classic menswear color that pairs well with neutrals like white, gray, and light brown. It can look great when combined with light blues or with yellow accents, which both pop against the darker shade of red. Despite its inherent darkness, it also pairs surprisingly well with navy.

What Colors Go with Orange Clothes?

Orange is a color you don’t see often in menswear, because it’s not the easiest color to pair, and like yellow, doesn’t look great on everyone. With that said, men often envision orange at its most vibrant hue and forget that even for orange, they can choose from a spectrum of shades. Rust orange looks great against paler skin-types, while coral can look amazing with darker skin.

Orange pairs extremely well with gray, brown, black and white. You might also wear it as an accent piece with navy, dark red or blue greens, or for the bolder gents, with blue-violet or yellow.

What Colors Go with Beige Clothes?

Beige is a neutral color that goes with any other color. It pairs well with other shades of brown, and looks great with green and blue. Beige is an excellent color to wear in summer when you combine it with white or other light hues like mint green or sky blue. If you’re looking to create more contrast, beige also makes a great combo with navy, maroon or darker browns.

What Colors Go with Pink Clothes?

Many men still avoid wearing pink because of its reputation as a feminine color, but it can look amazing in perfectly masculine outfits. A pink shirt looks great with a navy suit or with jeans, for example. Just start with a subtle light pink shirt, if you want to wet your toes with this color first.

Light pink is easy to pair with other neutrals, like navy, black, white, beige and gray, and looks great when paired with dark green. The bolder individuals may combine a hot pink with blue violets or yellow greens.

What Colors Go with Blue Clothes?

Blue is the quintessential color when it comes to menswear, as I guarantee everyone reading this has plenty of blue in their wardrobe already. Whether it’s jeans, suits, sports coats or T-shirts, we tend to gravitate toward blue. It’s an effortless color to wear. But what colors go well with blue?

You can wear blue with white, black and gray. It reminds of seas and beaches when paired with brown and makes easy pairing with analogous colors cyan, turquoise and green. Lastly, it provides fetching contrasts with yellow, brown, red and orange. You almost can’t go wrong with blue.

What Colors Go with Black Clothes?

People often say black goes with everything, but there are a few exceptions you should keep in mind when putting your outfit together. If you pair black with other colors that are almost as dark as black itself, it creates an off-putting, muddy appearance.

If you wear black clothes with other black clothes, you must make sure that they are the exact same shade, as otherwise, one garment will look washed out. For the same reason, you should avoid wearing grays that look almost black. Otherwise, black goes with any other color, but looks especially good when contrasted against light or bold, vibrant colors.

What Colors Go with White Clothes?

The only color you should avoid wearing with white is off-white, but otherwise, white goes with all colors — meaning, it goes with all hues, all shades, all tints and all tones. This is why white is the ultimate neutral and should have a prominent place in your wardrobe.

What Colors Go with Gray Clothes?

Gray clothes, whether they’re light gray or dark gray, pair the best with lighter or brighter colors. Gray makes colors stand out against it, making it the ultimate support color. Whether it’s red, green, blue or orange, gray makes all these colors pop. Avoid combining gray with other muted colors as it creates too muddy of an appearance.

What Colors Go with Brown Clothes?

Brown is a safe color that can go with just about any other color, but goes especially well with white, blue and green. For a more daring look, you might wear brown with orange or yellow which both look fantastic against brown. You can also wear different shades of brown, as it creates a pleasant earthy appearance.

Now You Know Which Colors Go Together

With the color combinations charts in this article, you should never have to wonder what colors go together. You have an easy reference, no matter what color clothing you choose to wear.

Of course, you’d be even better off if you had no need for a cheat sheet in the first place — if you simply knew which clothing mathced and which didn’t.

Imagine being in a clothing store and knowing how to pick matching clothes by instinct. Imagine opening your wardrobe and seeing a matrix of possible clothing combos. Imagine knowing exactly which shirt to pick with which pants, which shoes with which belt, or which tie with which jacket. Those are the lifeskills you get from reading Effortless Outfits.

Are you ready to master the art of matching clothes?

The 50 Best Color Combinations for Clothes

The clothes you wear can communicate a lot about your personality. And if you want to freshen up your look, finding new and exciting combinations of colors can be a great place to start.

If you’re in need of a little inspiration, here are some suggested color combinations ranging from the classic to the avant-garde.

Clothing Color Combinations for Men and Women

Here’s a list of the 50 best color combinations for clothes that work for men and women.

1. Sage Green and Tan

Different variations of green and tan are a mainstay in the fashion world. And since tan is a neutral, this combination can work in a number of different ways. Incorporating tan accessories (like the hat shown in the picture) is a smart move, and it’s easy to find tan shoes, pants, bags, etc.

Alternatively, you can add a sage green accent or two to a predominantly tan outfit for an especially memorable look.

2. Light Blue and Navy Blue

If you want to create a cool-toned color scheme, incorporating navy blue and light blue into the same outfit is a classic way to do so. Wearing a light blue shirt or blouse under a navy blue blazer is a great choice if you want to balance light and dark.

Alternatively, you can use one color to accent the other. For example, you could wear a navy tie with a light blue shirt (or do the same but reverse the colors).

3. Red and Yellow

Red and yellow can be a captivating color combination, but it’s important to create it carefully. If combined haphazardly, red and yellow just might make you look like Ronald McDonald!

To avoid that look, try to ensure that either the red or the yellow piece is part of a pattern. As you can see in the picture, the navy stripes on the red skirt help temper the hot colors of the red/yellow combination.

4. Purple and Charcoal Gray

This look is especially nice with shades of plum and other darker shades of purple. If you’re seeking a subdued palette for colder months, it’s a good way to go.

Of course, it’s always fun to experiment. So if you want to lighten up the look, try going for a lighter shade of purple and/or adding some white.

5. Seal Brown and Tan

Outfits made up mostly or entirely of neutrals don’t have to be dull! Seal brown in particular is a great alternative to black if you want something a little lighter and a little warmer.

As you can see in the picture, combining seal brown with tan is a great way to bring out the darker color’s warmth. To lighten the overall look while still keeping a neutral palette, try combining a seal brown and tan outfit with a little white. The white shirt in the picture is a great example of how to do this well.

6. Cerulean and Neon Green

This bright, dramatic color combination might not be right for more formal looks, but it’s great for making a statement. Try incorporating these colors into activewear, or add them in small doses to tamer outfits.

If you want something a little less bold, add hints of neon green to a mostly-cerulean outfit. Neon-green shoes can really pop against a cerulean shirt and jeans!

7. Red and Cyan

Though red and cyan aren’t complementary colors, they are connected: if you stare at a cyan picture and then shut your eyes, the afterimage will be red. And if you combine them in an outfit, each makes the other pop.

Since red is a lot more common in clothing than cyan is, the easiest way to combine these two is to add cyan accessories to a mostly-red outfit. And if you can find a dress or a shirt with a red and cyan pattern, that’s a great way to stand out, too.

8. Sky Blue and Charcoal Gray

Regardless of the shade, blue and gray work well together. This is especially true of shades of blue and shades of cool gray. From a practical standpoint, charcoal gray is a great choice to pair with sky blue. This deep and dignified gray is a common color for blazers, suit jackets, and pants.

As you can see in the picture, the charcoal/sky blue combination also looks great with hints of warmer neutrals like tan. When used sparingly, warm neutral accessories can really bring an outfit together.

9. Medium Pink and Red

You might be surprised to see this combination on the list. After all, pink and red together will often conjure up images of Valentine’s Day. But when used judiciously, this combination can add rosy warmth to an outfit.

As you can see in the picture, one way to combine the two is to separate them with a darker, cooler color like teal. Alternatively, you can temper this high-energy combination by adding black, cool white, or a similar neutral.

If you like this combination but want to use it in a much more subtle manner, try combining red nail polish with a pink dress (or vice versa).

10. Soft Mauve-Gray and Olive

Pink and green can easily become a garish combination. But if you combine a soft pink with a muted olive, you can take advantage of this pleasing contrast. When it’s soft enough, pale mauve functions almost like a neutral. And when muted enough, olive does the same.

This combination is a good one to choose if you want an outfit that’s a bit brighter than an all-neutral color scheme but a bit more muted than louder color combinations.

11. Hunter Green and Medium Brown

This is one of the classic combinations on the list. And one of the best ways to wear it is by pairing medium-brown accessories (especially leather accessories) with a hunter-green dress, sweater, jacket, etc.

A hunter green blazer is also a striking alternative to a navy blazer. And like navy, it pairs well with various shades of brown, tan, gray, and other neutrals. For a casual look that’s just a little dressed up, try wearing a hunter green blazer with jeans and medium-brown shoes.

12. Teal and Navy Blue

Sometimes, pairing similar colors results in a striking look. That’s the case with navy blue and teal. Teal is a very deep blue-green that pairs nicely with the deep blue of navy.

Since both of these colors are dark, it’s a good idea to incorporate lighter colors alongside them to create a balance. Try putting together an outfit that incorporates a gradient of color. You can see this in the picture: the model wears a dark navy blue top, while her scarf includes teal, several shades of lighter blue-green, and white.

13. Electric Purple and Black

If you want a modern look that really draws the eye, try incorporating electric purple into your next outfit! Depending on what you pair it with, electric purple can create dramatically different moods. For instance, it really pops against turquoise.

Most people prefer a more balanced look, though, and black is a great color to temper electric purple’s palpable energy. As you can see in the photo, black pants can make even an electric purple blazer look businesslike. But if you want a look that’s a little quieter, try adding hints of purple to a mostly-black outfit.

14. Soft Neon Green and Soft Neon Yellow

If you like outfits with multiple shades of neon but want to tone it down just a bit, try something like the outfit in the photo. As you can see, both the yellow and green fall somewhere between a neon and a pastel.

Of course, this isn’t a combination you’ll likely see in formalwear. But if you’re piecing together a high-energy gym outfit, this distinctive combination can help keep you motivated! If you want something higher-contrast, try incorporating these colors into a mostly black or dark gray outfit.

15. Pink and Turquoise

As you can see in the picture, this distinctive color combo is perfect for creating an 80s-inspired workout outfit. But if this look isn’t quite your style, you can pair these colors in a more understated way.

One of the best ways to do that is by pairing genuine turquoise jewelry with a pink top or dress. Even a small turquoise pendant creates a memorable contrast against a pink top. If you can find a pink and turquoise patterned accessory (like a belt or clutch), this combination is stunning against a mostly-black outfit.

16. Black and White

No list of color combinations would be complete without a mention of black and white. There are seemingly endless ways to pair these two colors. You can choose a patterned shirt or dress for a flashier look. Or if you prefer something more understated, try a white shirt under a black and white pinstriped blazer.

It can be fun to experiment with black and white combinations, and you can create different moods depending on the exact shades of each. Warm whites and blacks help create a vintage-inspired aesthetic, while cooler shades add a modern edge to any look.

17. Bright Blue and Soft Gray

If you like the look of very bright colors but want to pair them with something a little quieter, the combination of bright blue and soft gray is ideal. And as you can see in the picture, this is an ideal combination for activewear or athleisure: it’s easy to pair a bright blue hoodie with gray sweatpants. If you’re going for a look that is lighter and brighter overall, you can incorporate white accents or accessories.

18. Pastel Blue and Yellow-Orange

Choosing a warm earth tone as a neutral is an ideal way to give business casual a modern edge. And as you can see in the picture, yellow-orange pants pair well with a soft blue shirt.

If you want to take this intriguing combination out of the office, try pairing yellow-orange accessories (belts, shoes, purses, etc.) with a pastel-blue dress or top. And since this yellow-orange shade essentially works as a neutral, it looks nice alongside various shades of brown or tan, too.

19. Medium Green and White

This striking combination often looks almost regal. But it’s also at home in more casual contexts. As you can see in the picture, these two colors make quite a statement when combined in a pattern.

If you want to keep these two high-contrast colors separate, you can still create a memorable outfit: try combining a green top with white pants or vice versa. You can dress up this look with jewelry, too. Choose silver jewelry for a modern look, or go with gold if you’d prefer a classic aesthetic.

20. Pale Lilac and Medium Lavender

This unique double-purple combination comes close to being mostly monochromatic. However, lilac and lavender have different undertones. Lilac has a pinkish hue, while lavender has stronger blue undertones.

At any rate, these colors look nice together, and you can use accessories to shift the mood of the outfit. If you’re going for a more energetic look, try adding a bright green hat (or other accessory) as shown in the picture. If you’re after a more understated look, black or dark gray accessories also go well with lilac and lavender.

21. Orange and White

Orange and white is a dynamic combination that can be found in a number of logos and designs. It’s fairly common to see an orange hoodie with white lettering (or a white hoodie with orange lettering). But if you want a unique look, try pairing white pants with an orange top!

Of course, this is a combination you can have a lot of fun with. Try pairing white sunglasses and a white purse with an orange sundress. An orange and white patterned shirt is also a great way to turn heads!

22. Magenta and Yellow

If you’re looking for a head-turning combination of colors, magenta and yellow is a great one to choose. Like cerulean and neon green, this is a nice combination for beachwear or activewear. But for slightly more formal occasions, wearing a pink dress with a yellow purse (or vice versa) is a great way to stand out.

For a pop of color that’s a bit more subtle, incorporating smaller accessories can work. For example, you could wear magenta shoes with a yellow shirt. To balance out the warmth of this look, you can break up the color scheme with some black or dark gray.

23. Turquoise and Purple

While turquoise and purple and both technically cool colors, the combination of the two is a very high-energy one. Try wearing a pattern of the two for a vintage look, or use a purple or turquoise accessory (like the hat shown in the picture) to bring out this striking contrast in a gentler way.

As we mentioned earlier, turquoise jewelry is a great way to use this combination. A turquoise pendant, earrings, or even a ring will pop against a largely purple outfit.

24. Navy Blue and Tan

Navy blue and tan is one of the classic combinations on the list. Navy blue works nicely with just about any neutral, but the warmth of tan creates an especially balanced look. As you can see in the pictured outfit, tan leather accessories (belts, shoes, and purses) are an easy way to bring this look together.

And if you’re currently shopping for new looks, this is a fairly easy one to create. Navy blue is a common color for just about every clothing item, and you can also find tan leather accessories quite easily. Plus, navy and tan is a versatile combination that works well with casual outfits and formal wear alike.

25. Golden Yellow and Medium Blue

If you like the energy of yellow but prefer something closer to a jewel tone, a golden shade of yellow like the one pictured is a great way to go. It pairs well with medium blue and even denim blue, so this look works well for casual outfits. And of course, if you like patterns, shirts or dresses that use this combination are a nice way to stand out.

If you like the contrast in the picture but want to tone it down a little bit, shades of mustard yellow can be a good substitute for golden yellow. Plus, mustard yellow is a somewhat common color when it comes to leather accessories like purses and belts.

26. Dark Green and Gray

Once the weather turns cooler, more people turn to darker, cooler colors. And for a more understated combination, gray and green are a good choice. To create a palette that verges on the monochromatic, pair a very dark green with dark charcoal. For higher contrast, try pairing lighter gray with dark green as shown in the picture.

For slightly more formal occasions, you might consider wearing a dark green tie with a gray suit. To balance out this darker combination, try pairing it with a cool white shirt.

27. Medium Blue and Chocolate Brown

As we’ve seen so far, blue and brown seem to pair well together regardless of shade. Chocolate brown and lighter blue form a dignified pairing that works well with formal looks. As you can see in the photo, a medium-blue tie looks great with a chocolate brown blazer.

If you want to use this contrast in a subtler way, chocolate brown leather accessories also make a statement alongside blue shirts, dresses, or pants.

28. Rose Pink and Periwinkle

Sometimes, pairing multiple soft colors is a great choice. Palettes like this create dreamy, modern color schemes that are ideal if you want to stand out while still creating a calming mixture of colors.

If you want a color combination that evokes memories of spring, a combination of periwinkle and rose pink is an excellent choice. If you can find periwinkle boots like those shown in the picture, you can create an unusual and memorable outfit. Of course, you can always incorporate these soft colors into an outfit while sticking to more neutral-colored shoes and other accessories.

29. Yellow-Orange and Burnt Orange

The seasons can be a great inspiration when it comes to clothing. And for those seeking a decidedly autumnal palette, the warm combination of yellow-orange and burnt orange is a great one. Burnt orange is a somewhat common color for coats and even tops, so this combination is easier to create than you might think.

Since both yellow-orange and burnt orange pair beautifully with denim, this is a combination that lends itself to casual looks. Try a burnt-orange jacket, a yellow-orange scarf, and blue denim jeans.

30. Red and White

For those looking for classic combinations, red and white is a great one! From a practical standpoint, it’s also easy to find. Especially in autumn, red and white flannels are easy to find. And if you like the plaid look but want something a bit dressier, gingham collared shirts like the one shown in the picture are a great alternative.

As you likely already know, red and white also look great with navy blue. If you like this combination but don’t want to look like a 4th of July parade, try incorporating subtle navy blue accents. Even a red and white flannel with a few stripes of navy is a great way to do this.

31. Maroon and Gray

For a combination that offers plenty of contrast but still remains muted, maroon and gray is a great choice. Many pieces of clothing also offer a bit of a pattern contrast, as you’ll often see heathered gray paired with solid maroon.

You can often find this combination in baseball-style shirts like the one shown in the picture. And like many neutral/non-neutral combinations on the list, this one is also a great choice for formal clothing. Try pairing a gray blazer with a white shirt and maroon tie.

32. Magenta and Charcoal

If you like the general idea of maroon and gray but want something brighter, try pairing magenta with charcoal! This is one of the many combinations on the list that’s great for activewear. A charcoal gray hoodie and/or leggings can really pop against bright magenta shoes. And if you can find it, primarily gray activewear with a few magenta accents is also a good choice.

To sprinkle in just a little of this memorable contrast, you can even incorporate something as simple as magenta socks into a mostly-charcoal outfit.

33. Yellow and Warm Gray

This color combination is best represented by Pantone’s joint Color of the Year for 2021. The color authority chose Ultimate Gray, a warm gray shade, with Illuminating, an energetic yellow shade.

As you can see in the photo, the gray/yellow combination is one you can easily create with accessories. You can easily add yellow headphones, shoes, socks, scarves, purses, etc. to a largely gray outfit and capitalize on this dynamic color trend!

34. Orange and Black

This combination probably makes you think of Halloween. But when used carefully, it has plenty of applications outside of the spooky holiday. As you can see in the photo, this combo is great for activewear, as an orange jacket is easy enough to pair with black pants. Plus, bright orange has the advantage of offering ample visibility.

For a subtler look, you might consider pairing orange hats or socks with an otherwise-black outfit.

35. Charcoal Gray and White

Charcoal gray has popped up several times in our list, but it’s no coincidence: this rich and memorable color pairs well with bright colors, neutrals, and just about everything in between. If you like the contrast of black and white but want something a little less stark, consider piecing together an outfit of mostly charcoal and white.

As you can see in the photo, this makes a great contrast for activewear, but it’s also versatile enough for formal and casual outfits, too.

36. Pale Coral and Tan

Coral is a great color for spring and summer looks, and a paler shade of coral is a great choice if you want to tone down the intensity a bit. Like many summery colors, coral pairs nicely with tan. Combining it with a tan blazer as shown in the photo is a great way to go.

For less formal occasions, a coral shirt also goes well with tan or khaki pants. A pale coral sundress will also look great with tan or light brown shoes and accessories!

37. Yellow and White

If you want a light, cheerful color combination, try incorporating yellow and white into your next outfit! Pairing a yellow jacket with a white shirt as shown in the picture is a good choice. But if you prefer patterns, yellow and white is an easy one to find. From stripes to polka dots, yellow and white shirts and blouses can be found in abundance.

Like many looks on the list, this one can be used in a subtler way too. You can combine yellow accessories with a mostly-white outfit or white accessories with a mostly-yellow outfit for a memorable, summer-inspired look.

38. Sherbet Orange and Cool Gray

We’ve mentioned burnt orange and bright orange thus far, but the pastel energy of sherbet orange can be an asset to your wardrobe when used well. It has a high-energy, summery vibe when paired with white, but mixing it with cool gray grounds it to create a more balanced look.

As you can see in the picture, gray and sherbet orange make a great activewear combination. Cool shades of gray provide the ideal counterbalance to orange’s vibrant energy.

39. Clay Red and Cerulean

Red and blue are always striking. But if bright red and cerulean form a combination that’s a little loud for your taste, the muted nature of clay red just might work. Since clay red is close to being a neutral, you might be able to find clay-red coats like the one in the picture.

There are plenty of different ways to make use of this color combination, though. Try pairing a clay-red shirt with a cerulean tie for a pop of color!

40. Pink and Warm Black

Pink and black is a classic color combination. And while hot pink and stark black can look a little harsh (though it’s a common choice in activewear!), soft pink and warm black is often a little easier on the eyes.

Outfits like the one in the picture (where one of these colors makes up most of the outfit and the other is an accessory) are a great way to wear this combination. But if you like patterns, a pink and black patterned top is also a great way to go.

41. Sky Blue and Royal Blue

Earlier, we mentioned a combination of light blue and navy. If you like the blue-on-blue look but want something a little brighter, you might want to try out royal blue and sky blue. This is a great look for beachwear and casual summer outfits.

For more formal occasions, a sky blue shirt with a royal blue bow tie or necktie is a great high-energy look. It’s a good way to add a burst of color against neutral-colored pants or a blazer.

42. Taupe and White

Neutral-on-neutral looks might be a bit subdued compared to some other combinations on the list, but they don’t have to be boring! Taupe is a quintessential autumn color with just enough warmth. And while it looks nice with jewel tones, it’s versatile enough to look great with white, too.

Combining a taupe cardigan with a white shirt like the model in the picture is a great way to wear this look. And thanks to the all-neutral nature of this color scheme, you can add a bright accessory for a pop of color if you wish!

43. Blue-Green and Coral

For a look that’s perfect for spring and summer, try combining blue-green and coral! As you can see in the photo, adding a small burst of coral to a mostly-cool color scheme is a great way to balance out an outfit.

Like some other combinations on the list, this one works well when there’s a color gradient involved. Coral looks nice in an outfit that incorporates blue, green, and the spectrum of colors between. And of course, incorporating white is a fairly simple way to lighten up the look.

44. Red and Taupe

Earlier, we mentioned the versatility of taupe when it comes to wardrobe. And while this color pairs well with other neutrals, you can create a decidedly lively look by pairing it with red.

Depending on your individual preferences, you can tweak this combination in a number of ways. Try warm taupe and clay red for a more autumnal look, or create some contrast by combining cool taupe with fiery red.

45. Blush Pink and White

The combination of blush pink and white is perfect for creating a delicate, flowery aesthetic. As you can see in the photo, this combination works beautifully when combined in layers.

You also might want to try a blush pink top combined with white shorts, pants, or a skirt. If you wish, you can ground this combination with gray or black, or you can just keep the dreamy look as-is.

46. Yellow and Deep Sky Blue

The combination of yellow and blue can create a variety of different energies depending on the shade of each. And as you can see in the photo, combining a few shades of yellow with deep sky blue is certainly an option.

Try using intense sunny yellow for a bold contrast or soft yellow for an airier look. It also works to combine various shades of sky blue with a single shade of yellow. If you like to get creative with combining colors, this is a great place to start!

47. Burnt Orange and Hunter Green

If you’re in search of more autumn-inspired combinations, this is a great one to choose. This fashion-forward combination looks great with burnt orange leather as shown in the picture, but any material works.

Try pairing a burnt orange top with hunter-green pants. Or if you prefer, mix burnt-orange accessories with an outfit that’s mostly hunter green.

48. Slate Blue and Warm White

Navy blue and charcoal gray are staples in the fashion world. And if you can’t choose between the two, you can always go for the happy medium: slate blue. This gray-tinged blue looks outstanding alongside warm, vintage-inspired whites.

But you don’t have to stop here! Often, slate blue functions like a neutral, so it will work alongside a whole host of other colors as well. For a higher-energy look, try mixing it with high-energy shades like red or orange.

49. Red and Mint Green

If you haven’t seen it in action before, this color combination probably sounds weird. But as you can see in the picture, a thoughtful combination and red and mint green can really create a memorable outfit.

Of course, depending on the exact shades used, this juxtaposition may prove a little jarring. Try incorporating different shades of white to balance out the overall look. Or for a muted aesthetic, go for dusty or clay-like reds instead of bright reds.

50. Black and Gray

Last on our list is another classic: gray and black. This wintery combo is great for colder months. It’s also pretty easy to accomplish, as most of us have both black and gray in our closets. Pairing a gray coat with black pants is a great option. So is pairing black accessories with a largely gray outfit. And of course, if you want a more memorable look, go for a shirt with an interesting pattern of black and gray.

An Endless Number of Color Combinations for Clothes

We hope that you’ve found a few new clothing combinations to incorporate into your day-to-day life. And remember that this list is just a starting point. As your sense of style evolves, you’ll likely come up with even more memorable outfits!