Creating stylish outfits can be a challenge. Picture this: You wake up excited to create the perfect look for the day. You pull out a few pieces, only to realize they clash. No! Why is it so hard to put together a cute outfit?  You’re not alone if you’ve ever found yourself in this scenario. Many people struggle with best color combination -matching clothes. This article will offer valuable insight to help you achieve your outfit goals. Color-matching clothes can seem complicated, but with guidance, you can confidently create stylish outfits that reflect your taste while effortlessly achieving a balanced and harmonious look.

WhatColors’ AI personal color analysis app can help you achieve your outfit goals by breaking down color-matching clothes into simple, actionable steps. The app tells you how to create stylish outfits that reflect your taste and help you achieve a balanced and harmonious look.

Table of Contents

• What Are The Principles For Matching Colors?

• 5 Color Matching Clothes Methods for a Harmonious Wardrobe

• Can You Mix and Match More Than 3 Colors?

• Best Color Combinations for Clothes To Try Today

• Try AI Personal Color Analysis For Free Today

  
  

What Are The Principles For Matching Colors?

The color wheel was first invented by Sir Isaac Newton in the 18th century. He tried to condense the color spectrum into a wheel and visually represent their relationship. The wheel has been segregated into the following categories. While we will focus on using a color wheel for clothes and outfits, this theory is universal and applies to anything related to colors. 

Primary Colors

These comprise:

• Red

• Yellow

• Blue

No two colors can be mixed to achieve these shades. Everything else is derived from these colors. 

Secondary Colors

Secondary colors are a combination of the primary colors. 

So:

• Red+yellow = orange

• Red +blue = purple

• Blue+yellow = green

  
  

Tertiary Colors

These colors are a combination of primary and secondary colors. By mixing these colors, you get shades like:

• Mint

• Aqua

• Coral

  
  

Warm And Cool Colors

Warm colors make things look smaller, so most of us prefer wearing warmer colors when we want to look slimmer. Warm colors consist of hues of colors like:

• Red

• Orange

• Yellow

• Brown

Cool colors are soothing colors, like:

• Blue

• Purple

• Green

  
  

Neutral Colors

Neutral colors are self-explanatory. They are:

• Muted

• Plain

• Subdued 

Neutral colors consist of:

• Black

• Gray

• White

• Off-white

• Taupe

  
  

Did You Know?

Newton did not consider colors as absolute qualities. He based his color wheel on the understanding that colors are human perceptions of light wavelengths. Colors theory in fashion is also primarily based on human perception. 

Matching Colors Based on Skin Tone

You also need to consider what colors complement your skin tone. Scroll down to the next section to learn about color temperature. 

Clothing Color Temperature

Color temperature plays a critical role in determining your overall appearance. The warmth or coolness of the color can help enhance your skin tone and even convey your mood and emotions. Also, wearing color tones that match your undertones can uplift your look and make your skin look healthier and brighter. While the wrong color tone can make skin look washed out or dull. 

Colors hold psychological significance and can significantly affect our moods and emotions. For instance:

• Red is associated with passion and energy. It is a vibrant choice for when you want to feel lively or bold. 

• Orange clothes radiate enthusiasm and warmth, perfect for days you feel energetic and need something to uplift your mood. 

• Yellow brings happiness and hope; wearing it can make you happy and gleeful. 

• If you are feeling relaxed and calm, green is your color. 

• Wearing blue can make one feel confident and calm. It is a sought-after color in work settings. 

• Pink represents love and can be perfect for romantic occasions like a date. 

• These neutral colors represent luxury and give an elegant and sophisticated vibe:

• Beige

• Brown

• White 

Understanding the various effects of colors on our feelings and emotions allows us to choose what to wear consciously. Color communicates these connections nonverbally, enriching our dress style. 

Understanding color temperature and how it relates to the season, occasion, skin tone, and mood can help you make the right fashion choice. 

It’s wise to pick colors to suit your skin tone and the occasion:

• The right half of the wheel is warm and ideal for spring/summer

• The left side is cool and better suited to autumn/winter

Although, of course, this isn’t a hard and fast rule. And don’t forget, you can always seamlessly combine all three color rules above with grey, black, and white. 

How Seasonal Color Analysis Enhances Your Personal Style

WhatColors helps you find what colors to wear based on your skin tone. Thanks to our patented color match technology, you can get your season based on your skin tone. Get the perfect colors based on your season. Avoid colors that are a definite no. Based on your skin, eye, and hair color, find the ideal nail color with our WhatColors nail color generator. 

Get your color analysis done within 60 seconds with WhatColors’ AI personal color analysis app. Download our app for free today on the App Store or Google Play store. 

Related Reading

• What Are Neutral Colors
• Color Wheel for Clothes

5 Color Matching Clothes Methods for a Harmonious Wardrobe

1. The Monochrome Look, Dressing Head-to-Toe in One Color

The monochrome look is one in which all elements have different shades of the same color. You can use 2-3 shades of the same color with different saturation and brightness levels in one outfit. Monochrome looks may be in bright colors or soft ones. Adding more contrast between the shades will make your outfit more colorful and dressed. If the contrast between shades is barely noticeable, that whole look will appear softer and calmer. Some shades of green are more challenging to mix. 

Most colors match well in a monochrome look, but some exceptions exist. For example, some shades of green are more challenging to mix. If we have more than two shades of green in one outfit, it will become chaotic and imbalanced. This is because green has both cold and warm shades that rarely match well. Consider using a maximum of 2 shades of green in the same outfit and trying to have both in cool or warm shades.   

2. Contrasting Color Combination, Match Colors that are Opposites on the Color Wheel

You can create a contrasting look using colors that make each other more intense, creating a powerful contrast. The classic contrast combination includes: 

• Shades of red with green

• Blue with orange

• Purple with yellow

• White with black. 

Such combinations look very bright, so when you create contrasting looks: 

• One color must be the main one

• The other is complementary, proportioning 70% to 30%.

Before you try any of these methods, make sure you know what color type fits your skin tone. If your outfit is too bright, add one neutral color to muffle it and calm everything down.   

3. Soft Color Combination and How to Create Calming Outfits With Color

You can create a colored look by using soft colors. Soft colors are those mixed with gray or pastel colors. Some examples include:

• Ochre yellow

• Burnt orange

• Sage

• Burgundy

• Plum

You can also create soft color combinations by matching light with light colors or dark with dark colors in an outfit. When you combine soft colors, the resulting outfits look a little: 

• Calmer

• Softer

• Friendlier

• Sometimes more casual

• Relaxed

  
  

4. Neutral Colors Look and The Formula for Effortlessly Stylish Outfits

If you prefer less colorful looks, these colors can easily match each other. Use more neutral shades. 

Neutral colors like:

• Shades of white

• Beige

• Camel

• Gray

• Brown

• Back

  Choose clothes to make your outfits look more personal and stylish with: 

• A unique design

• Decorative elements

• Interesting textures

Combinations of simple design and simple neutral colors might look dull and eventually bore you. Neutral colors are essential as they add more balance and harmony to your outfits. The only thing to pay attention to is matching cold neutral shades with cold shades of other colors and vice versa. They also match with any:

• Bright color

• Soft color

• Primary color

  
  

5. Analogous Combos: The Secret to Color-Matching Success

Analogous color palettes consist of two or three different but neighboring hues. Ideally, you’d keep saturation and brightness the same, but it’s okay to mix and match to a point. Green and blue are strong combinations, ditto blue and red, which has long been a go-to suit and tie pairing.

Related Reading

• Outfit Color Combos
• Fashion Tips
• What Matches with Blue
• How to Style Clothes
• Yellow Color Combinations Clothing

Can You Mix and Match More Than 3 Colors?

The Three-Color Rule seems simple, and it is. This rule posits that to create a cohesive, aesthetically pleasing look, one should wear no more than three colors at a time. The rule even considers the possibility of mixing patterns and textures (music to my maximalist’s ears) so long as the total number of colors in an outfit is capped at three. 

Stylist Ellie Richards, who specializes in fashion psychology, posted a great video on TikTok breaking down this theory even further. In it, Richards explains that you should pick a dominant color to set the overall tone of your look, a secondary color to complement the primary, and then a third accent color to add contrast and a visual “pop.” I will note that there is some disagreement about whether or not neutrals like black and white should count toward your tally. I think they should, and Richards appears to agree. 

The Rule of Three, Mastering Color and Style Coordination

When I first encountered this rule, it felt like an epiphany. Whenever I drool over street-style photos of fun, funky outfits that just work despite seeming like they shouldn’t, there are no more than three colors at play. I’ve even looked back at some of my favorite outfit combos, mixed patterns, and whaddya, know? Three colors! Three is the magic number, whether discussing shopping, clothing proportions, or color theory. 

How to Apply the Three-Color Rule 

Technically, you can apply the rule simply by wearing three colors or less, but if you want to take your outfit to its fullest potential, go all in on a total trio. If you have a more minimalist persuasion, these colors are acceptable: 

• Beige

• Black

• White

Do you tend toward louder colors? Pink and orange can be emboldened by green or tempered by a neutral hue. And, of course, you can’t go wrong with some:

• Good ol’ red

• White

• Blue

As far as building your look, there are any number of routes you can take: Layer on your primary shade in the form of a bold coat, play up an accent hue by matching your bag to your shoes, and/or use the Sandwich Rule to create balance with your contrasting colors. Or, as you’ll see me demonstrate below, you can start with one statement piece and work outward from there. 

Real-Life Example of the Three-Color Rule in Action 

I recently had the opportunity to put this principle into practice while preparing to catch a clueless screening with friends in the park. A plaid skirt was a must, so I started there and built the rest of my outfit around the colors in the pattern:

My dress features shades of: 

• Brown

• Beige

• Lavender touch

I turned purple into my primary color, with the shoes and Fitbit band to match.

I threw on a brown belt (technically out of necessity, though it did bring the look together as my accent hue) and dashed out the door.

But only with taking some #OOTD shots first. I thought my three colors worked together seamlessly:

• Lavender

• Beige

• Brown

I rolled up to the screening feeling as well-dressed as Cher Horowitz herself. Come to think of it, even she and Dionne adhered to the Three-Color Rule throughout the movie. I wish I had added a brown leather purse to complement the belt, but given the outdoor picnic situation, I’ll forgive myself for the mini L.L. Bean Boat and Tote I carried instead. Nevertheless, my friends said I looked “snatched AF.” I’ll take that as a sign that there’s no madness behind this method.

Best Color Combinations for Clothes To Try Today

Core neutrals for women’s wardrobes are:

• Black

• White

• Brown

• Beige

• Gray

They work tirelessly to blend with literally any other shade under the sun. 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? Peek at leveraging 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 black 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. 

  
  

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 deciding what colors go well together, this twosome is a no-brainer. The one caveat is 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, curb the “no navy and black” rule.

What Colors Go with Olive Green?

Olive is a versatile earth-toned neutral color that can match almost any hue. Chambray are good go-to’s with this trend-savvy desert daze star:

• Warm pinks

• Browns

• Dusty blues

Are you hoping for a lighter approach when matching clothing colors? White is a crisp and clean contender when hunting for a stellar color mate for olive. A structured white blouse with slim olive slacks and nude flats is sophisticated.

What Color Combinations Work Best with Pastels and Brights?

When adding color to women’s wardrobes, pretty pastels and bold brights are the best choices. We typically think of these lively hues when looking to make an outfit pop. When deciphering what colors go well together, these striking shades can be the most persnickety of the bunch. 

Yes, there’s a way to overdo it on the neons; head-to-head pastels may wash you out. It’s all about balance, and we’re happy to guide you to the ultimate equilibrium of color. 

What Colors Go with Pink?

Style alert—all tints of pink and blue go well together as long as they have complementary tones. Here’s your answer if you are curious about what colors go with pink. Are you a gal who loves shades of mauve, blush, or hot pink? We encourage you to have fun with this one. 

• Opt for a rich cobalt and fuchsia for a bold and brilliant combo. 

• For a softer feel, try pairing baby pink and cornflower blue. 

• Embrace the cottage-core trend in a midi dress with:

• Puff sleeves

• A barely-there blue hue

• Ditsy pink flowers

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 gray is a tone-on-tone 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 to 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 red. The next time you contemplate 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 central 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 you’re feeling moody than with jewel tones and rich shades. While you can wear these deeper colors all year, we especially love them for fall and winter. Think of naturally occurring gemstones such as:

• Sapphire

• Amethyst

• Ruby

Today’s three that made the top of our list are:

• Teal green

• Burgundy

• Emerald

These will add a little spice to your friendly when searching for colors that go well together. Keep scrolling to find out how we love to style them.

What Colors Go with Burgundy? Blush for the Win

When 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 opposite ends of the saturation spectrum. 

• Blush is youthful, while burgundy swoops in with a sophisticated spirit. This accurate juxtaposition balances each color nicely. 

• Blush feels feminine, so opt for lace detailing if you’d like to lean into that. 

• Try a burgundy leather skirt instead if you’d rather focus on edgy details. 

  
  

What Colors Go Well Together for Teal and Blue

Are you scratching your head when figuring 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 they’re a coupling that’s meant to be. It’s challenging to look at a clear blue sky and lush green trees and not love what you see. These colors go hand in hand:

• Rain or shine

• Teal green

• Various shades of blue

A matching teal green jogger and sweatshirt set accented by midnight or cyan blue puts the fresh in refreshing. When styling jewel tones, don’t hesitate to wear shades of one color from head to toe. Tonal looks are fashion-forward when searching for colors that go well together. 

• Try a light aquamarine blouse tucked into teal trousers. Proportions play a significant role as well. 

• Go long on top or bottom, but not both. What do we mean by that? If your long trousers are high-waisted, tuck in your blouse to help define your waist. This is especially key if you are styling a petite-sized frame. 

  
  

What Colors Go Well Together? Emerald and Metallics

You are 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. 

• Pair with either black or cream to let this stunning shade shine in the spotlight. 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 the bottom, wear black jeans or slacks and chunky heeled booties. Don’t forget your crown, queen.

  
  

Related Reading

• Colors That Go with Brown Clothes
• Stylish Outfits for Women
• How to Choose Eyeshadow Color According to Dress
• What Color Goes with Brown
• Casual Outfits for Women
• Bright Color Palette
• Neutral Color Palette
• What Colors Go with Everything
• Colors That Go with Navy Blue
• What Colors Go with Yellow
• What Colours Look Good with Grey Clothes
• What Color Goes with Navy Blue
• Colors That Go with Dark Blue
• What Colors Match with Brown
• How to Dress Better
• Clothing Styles for Women

Try AI Personal Color Analysis For Free Today

WhatColors helps you find what colors to wear based on your skin tone. Thanks to our patented color match technology, you can get your season based on your skin tone. Get the perfect colors based on your season. Avoid colors that are a definite no. Based on your skin, eye, and hair color, find the ideal nail color with our WhatColors nail color generator. 

Get your color analysis done within 60 seconds with WhatColors’ AI personal color analysis app. Download our app for free today on the App Store or Google Play store.