7 Best Colors for Olive Skin That Will Make You Glow

woman smiling in bed - Best Colors for Olive Skin
woman smiling in bed - Best Colors for Olive Skin
woman smiling in bed - Best Colors for Olive Skin

Dante Kim

May 30th, 2024

Get your color analysis done
in 60 seconds with WhatColors!

Get your color analysis done in
60 seconds with WhatColors!

Get your color analysis done in 60 seconds with WhatColors!

Are you tired of the trial and error approach when it comes to choosing colors that complement your olive skin tone? We've all been there, standing in front of the mirror wondering why that new outfit doesn't quite hit the mark or why certain shades make us look washed out. If you're on a mission to enhance your appearance by understanding which colors harmonize with your skin tone, then this blog on best colors for olive skin is exactly what you need. From wardrobe choices to makeup selections, we've got you covered.

At WhatColors, we're here to make your journey to discovering the best colors for olive skin a breeze. With our AI personal color analysis, you can achieve your goal of looking better by understanding your personal colors. No more second-guessing or wasted time deliberating in front of the mirror. Our tool simplifies the process, offering practical and tailored suggestions to help you with how to find colors that suit you. Say goodbye to fashion faux pas and hello to a more confident, radiant you!

Table of Contents



What is an Olive Skin Tone?


woman on street - Best Colors for Olive Skin


Our skin tone is largely influenced by our genetics, but the amount of sun exposure we get and our undertones can also play an important role in determining how our skin presents. The tone of our skin is determined by how much pigment, or melanin, our skin produces. Sun exposure can lead to increased melanin production, like freckles and tans, but different skin tones respond differently to sun exposure.

Olive skin tones are easy to confuse with many other middle-range skin tones. In fact, many individuals who have olive skin tones may not even realize it. Olive skin is usually light brown and falls between a dark and a light skin tone, but it may also be a darker tone or even a lighter one. Your undertone can also be important in determining how light or dark your olive skin tone is.

Basic Features of Olive Skin Tone


woman with denim jacket - Best Colors for Olive Skin


Olive skin can be lighter or darker, and it may be darker after sun exposure. Olive skin tones are determined by combining the skin tone with the undertones, the full effect being a beautiful olive coloring. It’s important to note that just because your skin is light doesn’t mean it isn’t an olive skin tone.

It Tans Easily


One of the common features of an olive skin tone is that it tans. Olive skin tones don’t burn very much, though they can burn. It’s more likely that an olive skin tone will darken into a tan when exposed to the sun, rather than burn or irritate like lighter skin tones.

Common Undertones for Olive Skin Tone


Your undertone is important in determining if you have an olive skin tone. An undertone, as the name indicates, is the color below the surface of your skin. You can figure out if you have a neutral, warm, or cool undertone by looking at the color of your veins and what jewelry or fabric colors might be flattering on you. For instance, blue veins indicate a cooler skin tone and green veins indicate a warm skin tone.

The warm undertones that may contribute to an olive skin tone include peach, yellow, or a light orange color. The cooler undertones for olive skin are usually blue or pink. If you notice a combination of blue and green veins for a neutral undertone, that simply means that the color you see is the true color of your skin. If your olive skin tone is light, your undertone will likely be a lighter brown, like a beige. If it is a dark skin tone, that means your undertone will be dark, as well.

Unlock your colors and transform your style for free today with WhatColors’ AI Personal Color Analysis app. Download our app for free today on the App Store or Google Play store.

Related Reading


How To Know What Colors Look Good On You
What Color Lipstick Should I Wear
What Colors Look Good On Pale Skin
What Color Blush Should I Wear
Colors That Go With Tan
What Color Jewelry Should I Wear

7 Best Colors for Olive Skin Tone


woman with dark lipstick - Best Colors for Olive Skin


1. White: Enhances Your Olive Skin


White makes your skin look dark, deep, and rich. And not everyone can wear white as beautifully as olive-skinned women. Your black or brown hair will also contrast nicely against the white clothing.

2. Hot Pink: Makes Your Skin Look Vibrant


Hot pink makes your skin look sexy and vibrant and is one of the best clothing colors for olive skin. It's especially nice to wear a hot pink bikini or sundress in the summer. Wear this color any time you want to be the life of the party and get noticed.

3. Bright Yellow: Highlights Yellows and Greens in Your Skin


Bright yellow is gorgeous on olive skin because it highlights the yellows and greens already in your skin. Keep this cheerful color in your closet for the Springtime.

4. Maroon: Adds Warmth to Your Complexion


Maroon is a deep, sultry color that is perfect for your wardrobe in the Wintertime. It will make your complexion appear warm and golden.

5. Olive Green: Accentuates Your Dark Hair


Most people do not wear green frequently unless it is trending. But you should wear it even if it isn't the hot color of the season. You will notice that when you put olive green on, your dark hair will stand out more.

6. Black: Gives You a Lovely, Dark Silhouette


You might be surprised to find black on this list of olive skin clothing colors. While it certainly is not as beautiful a color on you as white, black is still a must-have. With your dark hair sitting atop your head, a black dress or suit will give you a lovely, dark silhouette. Black is also one of the only colors you can wear head to foot without being called overdone.

7. Complementary Colors: Purple and Red-Purple Shades


Wearing colors from the hues on the opposing side of the color wheel, such as purple, wine, lilac, bubble gum, and all other variations of dark/light/muted purple and red-purple will look smashing against olive skin.

Colors to Avoid With Olive Skin Tone


woman enjoying a wedding - Best Colors for Olive Skin


Colors like orange and turquoise clash with olive skin, making a person appear washed out and dull. This can make them look pale and sickly, especially if the colors are of similar luminance. A good example of this is when someone with olive skin wears teal or mint clothing - it just doesn't look flattering. 

Related Reading


What Color Should I Wear
Colors For Cool Undertones
Best Colors For Warm Undertones
What Colors Look Good On Tan Skin
What Colors Look Best On Brown Skin
Best Colors For Cool Undertones
Best Colors For Warm Skin Tone
What Season Am I
What Color Looks Best on Me
What Is My Color
How to Find Your Color Palette
What's My Color Palette
What Color Season Am I

Why Wearing the Right Color for Your Skin Tone Matters


woman in red colored background - Best Colors for Olive Skin


When you know which colors complement your olive skin, you won't make the mistake of purchasing items that don't work for you. This means fewer impulse buys that end up collecting dust in your closet. By streamlining your wardrobe to only include pieces that enhance your features, you'll have more outfit options that you actually enjoy wearing.

Shopping is quicker and easier


Black may seem like the easy go-to color when you're unsure, but knowing your best colors can simplify your shopping experience. By focusing on pieces that suit your skin tone, you can eliminate the need to sift through endless racks of clothing to find something that works. This saves you time and takes the stress out of decision-making.

Save money


Investing in clothes and makeup that align with your unique coloring can save you money in the long run. When you make informed choices based on your color analysis, you'll be less likely to purchase items that end up neglected in the back of a drawer. Knowing your colors means you'll actually use what you buy, reducing the need for constant experimentation and frequent shopping trips.

Getting dressed is quicker and easier


Having a wardrobe full of colors that suit you eliminates the need to overthink outfit combinations. When everything you own works well together, getting dressed becomes a breeze. There's no need to worry about whether certain pieces clash – it's all about effortless coordination.

Look slimmer


The right colors can create optical illusions that make you appear slimmer. By wearing shades that harmonize with your skin tone, you can draw attention to your face rather than your clothes. This can help you appear taller and sleeker by directing the focus upward, rather than adding visual weight with mismatched hues.

6. Look younger


Colors that complement your olive skin can enhance your overall appearance, giving you a youthful glow. Harmonious shades can bring out the healthy color in your face, brighten your eyes, and create a vibrant, energetic look. By avoiding colors that visually age you or detract from your natural beauty, you can project a more youthful and lively image.

7. Look strong


Wearing colors that work well with your skin tone can help you convey strength and confidence. When your clothing harmonizes with your features, you can appear more present and powerful. On the other hand, disharmonious colors can make you seem weak or diminish your presence. By selecting colors that complement your olive skin, you can project a strong and assertive image that accurately reflects your true self.

Try AI Personal Color Analysis For Free Today


WhatColors is an app that helps you find the best colors to wear based on your skin tone. By using our patented color match technology, you can finally determine your season based on your skin tone. Our app provides you with the perfect colors based on your season, avoiding colors that are not suitable for you. By inputting your skin, eye, and hair color, you can find the perfect nail colors with our WhatColors Nail Color Generator. 

Transform your style by unlocking your colors for free with WhatColors' AI Personal Color Analysis app, available for download on the App Store and Google Play store.

Related Reading


Best Colors for Winter Skin Tone
Best Colors For Yellow Undertones
What Color Prom Dress Should I Wear
Best Clothing Colors For Pale Skin Male
Best Colors For Light Skin
Best Clothing Colors For Fair Skin
What Color Eyeshadow Should I Wear
Best Colors For Light Brown Skin
What Does It Mean When A Color Washes You Out
Best Colors For Medium Skin Tone
What Color Eyeliner Should I Wear
What Colors Look Good On Pale Skin With Pink Undertones

Get your color analysis done
in 60 seconds with WhatColors!

Are you tired of the trial and error approach when it comes to choosing colors that complement your olive skin tone? We've all been there, standing in front of the mirror wondering why that new outfit doesn't quite hit the mark or why certain shades make us look washed out. If you're on a mission to enhance your appearance by understanding which colors harmonize with your skin tone, then this blog on best colors for olive skin is exactly what you need. From wardrobe choices to makeup selections, we've got you covered.

At WhatColors, we're here to make your journey to discovering the best colors for olive skin a breeze. With our AI personal color analysis, you can achieve your goal of looking better by understanding your personal colors. No more second-guessing or wasted time deliberating in front of the mirror. Our tool simplifies the process, offering practical and tailored suggestions to help you with how to find colors that suit you. Say goodbye to fashion faux pas and hello to a more confident, radiant you!

Table of Contents



What is an Olive Skin Tone?


woman on street - Best Colors for Olive Skin


Our skin tone is largely influenced by our genetics, but the amount of sun exposure we get and our undertones can also play an important role in determining how our skin presents. The tone of our skin is determined by how much pigment, or melanin, our skin produces. Sun exposure can lead to increased melanin production, like freckles and tans, but different skin tones respond differently to sun exposure.

Olive skin tones are easy to confuse with many other middle-range skin tones. In fact, many individuals who have olive skin tones may not even realize it. Olive skin is usually light brown and falls between a dark and a light skin tone, but it may also be a darker tone or even a lighter one. Your undertone can also be important in determining how light or dark your olive skin tone is.

Basic Features of Olive Skin Tone


woman with denim jacket - Best Colors for Olive Skin


Olive skin can be lighter or darker, and it may be darker after sun exposure. Olive skin tones are determined by combining the skin tone with the undertones, the full effect being a beautiful olive coloring. It’s important to note that just because your skin is light doesn’t mean it isn’t an olive skin tone.

It Tans Easily


One of the common features of an olive skin tone is that it tans. Olive skin tones don’t burn very much, though they can burn. It’s more likely that an olive skin tone will darken into a tan when exposed to the sun, rather than burn or irritate like lighter skin tones.

Common Undertones for Olive Skin Tone


Your undertone is important in determining if you have an olive skin tone. An undertone, as the name indicates, is the color below the surface of your skin. You can figure out if you have a neutral, warm, or cool undertone by looking at the color of your veins and what jewelry or fabric colors might be flattering on you. For instance, blue veins indicate a cooler skin tone and green veins indicate a warm skin tone.

The warm undertones that may contribute to an olive skin tone include peach, yellow, or a light orange color. The cooler undertones for olive skin are usually blue or pink. If you notice a combination of blue and green veins for a neutral undertone, that simply means that the color you see is the true color of your skin. If your olive skin tone is light, your undertone will likely be a lighter brown, like a beige. If it is a dark skin tone, that means your undertone will be dark, as well.

Unlock your colors and transform your style for free today with WhatColors’ AI Personal Color Analysis app. Download our app for free today on the App Store or Google Play store.

Related Reading


How To Know What Colors Look Good On You
What Color Lipstick Should I Wear
What Colors Look Good On Pale Skin
What Color Blush Should I Wear
Colors That Go With Tan
What Color Jewelry Should I Wear

7 Best Colors for Olive Skin Tone


woman with dark lipstick - Best Colors for Olive Skin


1. White: Enhances Your Olive Skin


White makes your skin look dark, deep, and rich. And not everyone can wear white as beautifully as olive-skinned women. Your black or brown hair will also contrast nicely against the white clothing.

2. Hot Pink: Makes Your Skin Look Vibrant


Hot pink makes your skin look sexy and vibrant and is one of the best clothing colors for olive skin. It's especially nice to wear a hot pink bikini or sundress in the summer. Wear this color any time you want to be the life of the party and get noticed.

3. Bright Yellow: Highlights Yellows and Greens in Your Skin


Bright yellow is gorgeous on olive skin because it highlights the yellows and greens already in your skin. Keep this cheerful color in your closet for the Springtime.

4. Maroon: Adds Warmth to Your Complexion


Maroon is a deep, sultry color that is perfect for your wardrobe in the Wintertime. It will make your complexion appear warm and golden.

5. Olive Green: Accentuates Your Dark Hair


Most people do not wear green frequently unless it is trending. But you should wear it even if it isn't the hot color of the season. You will notice that when you put olive green on, your dark hair will stand out more.

6. Black: Gives You a Lovely, Dark Silhouette


You might be surprised to find black on this list of olive skin clothing colors. While it certainly is not as beautiful a color on you as white, black is still a must-have. With your dark hair sitting atop your head, a black dress or suit will give you a lovely, dark silhouette. Black is also one of the only colors you can wear head to foot without being called overdone.

7. Complementary Colors: Purple and Red-Purple Shades


Wearing colors from the hues on the opposing side of the color wheel, such as purple, wine, lilac, bubble gum, and all other variations of dark/light/muted purple and red-purple will look smashing against olive skin.

Colors to Avoid With Olive Skin Tone


woman enjoying a wedding - Best Colors for Olive Skin


Colors like orange and turquoise clash with olive skin, making a person appear washed out and dull. This can make them look pale and sickly, especially if the colors are of similar luminance. A good example of this is when someone with olive skin wears teal or mint clothing - it just doesn't look flattering. 

Related Reading


What Color Should I Wear
Colors For Cool Undertones
Best Colors For Warm Undertones
What Colors Look Good On Tan Skin
What Colors Look Best On Brown Skin
Best Colors For Cool Undertones
Best Colors For Warm Skin Tone
What Season Am I
What Color Looks Best on Me
What Is My Color
How to Find Your Color Palette
What's My Color Palette
What Color Season Am I

Why Wearing the Right Color for Your Skin Tone Matters


woman in red colored background - Best Colors for Olive Skin


When you know which colors complement your olive skin, you won't make the mistake of purchasing items that don't work for you. This means fewer impulse buys that end up collecting dust in your closet. By streamlining your wardrobe to only include pieces that enhance your features, you'll have more outfit options that you actually enjoy wearing.

Shopping is quicker and easier


Black may seem like the easy go-to color when you're unsure, but knowing your best colors can simplify your shopping experience. By focusing on pieces that suit your skin tone, you can eliminate the need to sift through endless racks of clothing to find something that works. This saves you time and takes the stress out of decision-making.

Save money


Investing in clothes and makeup that align with your unique coloring can save you money in the long run. When you make informed choices based on your color analysis, you'll be less likely to purchase items that end up neglected in the back of a drawer. Knowing your colors means you'll actually use what you buy, reducing the need for constant experimentation and frequent shopping trips.

Getting dressed is quicker and easier


Having a wardrobe full of colors that suit you eliminates the need to overthink outfit combinations. When everything you own works well together, getting dressed becomes a breeze. There's no need to worry about whether certain pieces clash – it's all about effortless coordination.

Look slimmer


The right colors can create optical illusions that make you appear slimmer. By wearing shades that harmonize with your skin tone, you can draw attention to your face rather than your clothes. This can help you appear taller and sleeker by directing the focus upward, rather than adding visual weight with mismatched hues.

6. Look younger


Colors that complement your olive skin can enhance your overall appearance, giving you a youthful glow. Harmonious shades can bring out the healthy color in your face, brighten your eyes, and create a vibrant, energetic look. By avoiding colors that visually age you or detract from your natural beauty, you can project a more youthful and lively image.

7. Look strong


Wearing colors that work well with your skin tone can help you convey strength and confidence. When your clothing harmonizes with your features, you can appear more present and powerful. On the other hand, disharmonious colors can make you seem weak or diminish your presence. By selecting colors that complement your olive skin, you can project a strong and assertive image that accurately reflects your true self.

Try AI Personal Color Analysis For Free Today


WhatColors is an app that helps you find the best colors to wear based on your skin tone. By using our patented color match technology, you can finally determine your season based on your skin tone. Our app provides you with the perfect colors based on your season, avoiding colors that are not suitable for you. By inputting your skin, eye, and hair color, you can find the perfect nail colors with our WhatColors Nail Color Generator. 

Transform your style by unlocking your colors for free with WhatColors' AI Personal Color Analysis app, available for download on the App Store and Google Play store.

Related Reading


Best Colors for Winter Skin Tone
Best Colors For Yellow Undertones
What Color Prom Dress Should I Wear
Best Clothing Colors For Pale Skin Male
Best Colors For Light Skin
Best Clothing Colors For Fair Skin
What Color Eyeshadow Should I Wear
Best Colors For Light Brown Skin
What Does It Mean When A Color Washes You Out
Best Colors For Medium Skin Tone
What Color Eyeliner Should I Wear
What Colors Look Good On Pale Skin With Pink Undertones

Unlock Your Colors,
Transform Your Style

Get your color analysis done in 60 seconds!