What Colors Go with Yellow? 20+ Ideas to Brighten up Your Wardrobe

girl wearing yellow jacket - What Colors Go with Yellow
girl wearing yellow jacket - What Colors Go with Yellow
girl wearing yellow jacket - What Colors Go with Yellow

Dante Kim

Oct 12th,2024

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60 seconds with WhatColors!

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Yellow is the color of happiness and sunshine, so it’s no wonder you’re keen to add it to your wardrobe. But if you are unsure what colors go with yellow, you may hesitate to wear this bright shade that packs a cheerful punch. Understanding how to match yellow with other colors will help you unlock its full potential and create eye-catching outfits that make you want to wear yellow daily. This blog will explore creative and stylish color combinations to make yellow easy to wear and enhance your wardrobe with fresh, vibrant outfit ideas.

WhatColors’ AI personal color analysis app can help you discover what colors go with yellow (and other colors!) based on your unique preferences and personal style. This tool lets you find best color combinations that suit your tastes and complement your natural coloring. This way, you can confidently tackle what colors go with yellow and start creating fun outfits that incorporate this cheerful hue.


Table of Contents


  • Is Yellow a Good Color?

  • Which Shade and Tone of Yellow Suits You?

  • What Colors Go with Yellow

  • Can Cool Seasons Wear Yellow?

  • How to Wear Yellow as a Menswear Color

  • Yellow Outfit Ideas & Styling for Men

  • Think You Can't Wear Yellow? Try These 16 Outfit Ideas

  • Top Tips to Wear Yellow and Brighten Up Your Day!

  • Try AI Personal Color Analysis For Free Today


Is Yellow a Good Color?



person wearing yellow skirt - What Colors Go with Yellow




Yellow can be bright and intense, often invoking such strong feelings. Color psychology suggests that specific colors evoke distinct moods and can even influence behavior and well-being. While color associations often vary based on individual experiences and cultural differences, some colors consistently evoke certain moods or feelings. The color yellow is one of them.

When you think of yellow, what comes to mind? For many, it’s a cheerful color that evokes images of flowers and sunshine. Others may associate it with less pleasant memories. Your own experiences will shape how yellow makes you feel.


The Good: Positive Associations with Yellow


Some of the key characteristics associated with the color yellow include:

  • Attention-grabbing: Since yellow is the most visible color, it is also the most attention-getting color. Yellow can be used in small amounts to draw notice, such as on traffic signs or advertisements. Researchers have found that yellow stands out more than any other color, making it a safety color to help draw attention to important information or dangers in a person’s environment.

  • Energetic: Yellow can also increase metabolism.

  • Warm: Yellow is a bright color often described as cheery and warm.

  • Symbolic Meaning of Yellow: Some symbolic meanings of yellow include hope, joy, light, confidence, and dignity. Interestingly, the symbolic meanings of color only sometimes correspond to some of the metaphorical uses of the term. While yellow is associated with joy, it’s often metaphorically linked to cowardice and fear.


The Bad: Negative Associations with Yellow


Though yellow has many positive associations, it can also evoke negative feelings. Some of these include:

  • Difficult to read: Yellow is the most fatiguing color to the eye due to the high amount of reflected light. Using yellow as a background on paper or computer monitors can lead to eyestrain or vision loss in extreme cases. 

  • Frustrating: Yellow can create feelings of frustration and anger. While it’s considered a cheerful color, people are likelier to lose their tempers in yellow rooms, and babies tend to cry more in yellow rooms. 

  • Danger: Yellow is a warning color in several situations. It’s used on caution signs and to color code specific hazards.


Yellow Is Energetic


Yellow is often perceived as a high-energy color. It’s used in situations and products intended to create a sense of excitement or energy. Fully saturated yellow is only suitable for brief exposure because its stimulating effect is so powerful that it can quickly build up emotional energy.

It should be noted that a less saturated yellow, such as that found in whipped vegetable spread (faux butter), is mildly pleasing and cheery.


Yellow Can Be Aggressive


While yellow can be an energetic color, this intensity can also have a downside. Sometimes, it can come off as very aggressive and even confrontational. In large quantities, people may feel irritated or even angry when surrounded by yellow.

Yellow is associated with aggression and frustration. The walls of my school are all yellow, and since the new building opened, more fights have occurred in the hallways where there is the most yellow. Also, some of the classrooms with yellow are associated with more frustrated students.  Other readers also reported that they find yellow a highly irritating color.


Yellow Is Complex

Of course, the effects of yellow can be highly varied and complex. Some people respond to this color in different ways. While some people might find it bright and cheery, others may find it grating and obnoxious. 

Some may associate it with a warm summer day, while to others, it might be reminiscent of bad memories or associations. Yellow is a happy color associated with flowers and sunshine. But our kitchen is painted yellow, and I find that my fiancé, who has a short temper, almost always loses it in the kitchen.

He also becomes much more impatient and argumentative. I have always suspected that it is the color of the walls. Guests also tend to eat their food faster at the kitchen table than when we entertain in the dining room (white) or outside.\


Yellow Is Cheerful


For many people, yellow is a bright and cheerful color. Advertisers use it to draw attention and evoke a sense of happiness. Halfway through the year, my math classroom was painted bright yellow. 

It completely changed the atmosphere, and everyone’s grades seemed to go up. Our teacher joked it must be the new paint job, but I believed it was. It gave a cheery atmosphere, and the lessons were far more light and enjoyable!


Related Reading


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Which Shade and Tone of Yellow Suits You?



people wearing yellow - What Colors Go with Yellow



Yellow is such a happy, cheerful color. But can everyone wear it? Well, most yellows indeed have a warmer undertone to them, so for those with more astonishing elements to their coloring, they can be trickier to wear. 

When more white is added to yellow, it becomes more relaxed. So if this is you, you must look for a paler yellow. Or simply wear it in a cooler color, maybe gray or navy.

Here’s a quick rundown of the types of yellows that suit each coloring type and how you can wear them.


Light+Warm


The lighter, warm yellows, like primrose, are great for you.


Light+Cool


The pale, cool yellows are great for you.


Deep+Warm


You’ll look lovely in a bold, warm yellow in a pattern or worn in contrast with a darker outer layer.


Deep+Cool


You’ll look great wearing a cool yellow in a pattern with a darker, bolder background or wearing your yellow top with a darker cardigan.


Warm+Bright


Yellow is a fabulous color for you. The brighter, the better. Now’s the time to stock up!


Warm+Smokey


Yellows are fabulous on you, especially the softer-toned varieties like mustard.


Cool+Bright


Yellows are generally not the best colors if you have cool coloring, so choose a cool yellow and pair it with one of your darker cool colors to create contrast, eg, dark navy and cool pale yellow.

Cool+Smokey


Again, yellows are generally not your best color, so like the cool+bright types, you’d be best off wearing a small amount of them with one of your lovely cool colors or in a mix in a pattern.


Bright+Warm


A bold, warm yellow, perhaps paired with one of your darker colors or within a pattern, is great for you.


Bright+Cool


Choose a bold yellow with a cooler undertone and create contrast by pairing it with a dark color or wearing a yellow pattern.


Smokey+Warm


All the gentle mustard and chartreuse tones will look lovely on you.


Smokey+Cool


Choose the cooler-toned yellows that will set off your cooler features.


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What Colors Go with Yellow



white and yellow skirt - What Colors Go with Yellow



Yellow and White: The Perfect Summer Combination


Nothing beats the classic white and yellow color combination in the summer. This pairing is fresh and clean and perfect for creating a light, airy look. 

Whether wearing a yellow sundress or yellow shorts, pairing it with a white top or accessory can help balance the bold color combinations. You can even experiment with shades of white, such as off-white or cream, for a more subtle and relaxed vibe.


Yellow and Denim: A Casual yet Chic Look


Pair yellow with denim to create a more casual yet chic look. Yellow creates a laid-back and effortless look that is perfect for summer. 

Whether you're wearing a yellow top with denim shorts or a yellow dress with a denim jacket, this denim and yellow color combination is sure to make you stand out from the crowd.


Yellow and Blue: A Bold and Striking Combination


For those looking to make a bold statement this summer, the blue and yellow color combination is a winning choice. They create a striking, eye-catching look that will turn heads when paired. 

Whether wearing a yellow skirt with a blue top or a blue dress with yellow accessories, this color combination creates a perfect statement outfit for any occasion.


Yellow and Green: A Refreshing and Natural Combination


If you want to create a more natural and refreshing look this summer, pairing the yellow color with green is a great choice. Green is often associated with nature and the outdoors, making it perfect for summer. 

When paired with yellow, it creates a refreshing and vibrant combination perfect for a picnic in the park or a day at the beach.


Yellow and Pink: A Fun and Flirty Combination


For those who love to add a touch of femininity to their look, the pink and yellow color combination is fun and flirty, perfect for summer. Pink is often associated with romance and love, making it an excellent choice for a summer date night. 

Paired with yellow, it creates a playful and youthful look that will make you feel confident and beautiful. Whether wearing a yellow skirt with a pink top or a pink dress with yellow accessories, this color combination is perfect for creating a fun and flirty outfit for any occasion.


Yellow and Purple: For A Bold And K-Pop Vibe


Yellow and purple may seem unusual, but they can create a stunning and bold look. This color combination works well for those who want to make a statement with their summer clothing. 

The key is to use these colors in the proper proportions. A yellow dress with purple accessories looks fantastic, and the opposite works. This combination is great for a fun and playful summer look.


Yellow And Gray


Most people wouldn’t even think of combining gray and yellow, but it is a trendy and a bit more out there style. This is mixing the seasons and creating an all-year-round look. 

It is usually perfect for accessorizing with yellow, such as a nice purse bag or shoes, and has a gray base for your outfit. This makes the accessories stand out and become noticeable.


Yellow And Orange


Some might think this contrast is too much for anyone, but it doesn’t have to be! It all depends on the different tones that you pick out. These colors create a sense of energy and vibrance, which many people want to achieve in their closets. 

Orange coats or blazers are the way forward; they collaborate well with bright yellow dresses and skirts! You can even accessorize with bags and shoes to add to the color. You want it to be balanced but bright, and it can be challenging to achieve that sometimes, but it is all trial and error with your closet.


Yellow and Black


Black would be a cop-out—doesn't it go with everything? But I've never worn black with yellow before for fear of looking like I'm wearing a bumblebee costume. 

But pale yellow? I'm a convert. Jet black will work hard to balance the sweetness of pale yellow, bringing depth and warmth to the light and airy shade and creating a chic combination.


Pale Yellow and Khaki


A deep khaki pairing will juxtapose the pretty nature of pastel yellow, creating contrast in your outfit for an easy but elevated pairing.


Pale Yellow and Beige


If you live in neutrals, adding pale yellow to your repertoire will help pep up even your oldest and most worn pieces. This light, tonal pairing of butter, yellow, and beige creates a cohesive base that you can layer up with plenty of jewels and accessories.


Specific Color Pairings


  • Bright yellow goes well with white for a fresh look. Black and yellow are bold together.

  • Lemon yellow pairs nicely with navy blue or olive green. These combinations are both striking and sophisticated.

  • Mustard yellow looks great with dark brown or burgundy. These darker shades provide a nice contrast.

  • Pastel yellow works well with soft pink, lavender, or off-white. This gives a gentle, romantic feel to your outfit.


Related Reading


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Yellow Color Combinations Clothing


Can Cool Seasons Wear Yellow?



woman in yellow - What Colors Go with Yellow




Yellow is an excellent addition to your wardrobe when you have a fantastic seasonal color palette. Sure, it is a warm color, but it can be incorporated into outfits for cool-toned individuals, like Summers and Winters, especially when paired with cooler hues or selected in lighter, pastel versions.


Finding the Right Shade of Yellow


It’s all about finding the right shade when selecting yellow for cool color palettes. Cooler yellows, like lemon yellow, are ideal for Winters, while Summers should look for soft, pastel versions of yellow.


Tips for Wearing Yellow


If you are nervous about wearing yellow, start small. Select a few accessories, such as shoes, handbags, or jewelry, to add yellow to your look. Then, explore how to incorporate yellow into your wardrobe by pairing it with your favorite cool colors.


How to Wear Yellow as a Menswear Color



man in yellow shirt - What Colors Go with Yellow




Yellow includes many colors with exciting names: buff, butter, gold, mustard, ochre, and even tan, which contains some yellow. Depending on its tone, yellow can be a strong accent or treated like a neutral. 

This makes it a possibility for multiple seasons and climate conditions. In spring, a pastel yellow tie pairs well with sky blue, for example, while in hotter weather, a valid yellow knit tie or mustard linen jacket might be chosen. In winter, rich yellows containing brown are ideal, as in an ochre sportcoat.


Yellow and Blue: A Classic Duo


Blue is the classic (and easiest) color to pair with yellow. Matching yellow and blue is a no-brainer, as they are in opposite quadrants on the color wheel, so they are generally complementary.


Bright Contrast


The dominance of blue in tailored menswear (think of the classic navy suit) invites the addition of yellow. Be sure to match the tones of both colors. A bright yellow tie works better with a royal blue suit than dark navy, where the contrast may be too high. 

Bright yellow and blue pairings most frequently appear in warm weather, while more muted combinations of the color suit cooler temperatures.


Yellow and Gray: Brighten Up the Dull


Yellow is an excellent way to brighten up gray, a prominent menswear color. For those who find gray a bit drab, yellow accessories can lighten up otherwise very gray outfits. 

A lighter to mid-gray suit and pastel yellow pairing work best. Alternatively, a warm yellow sportcoat and gray trousers are even more unique and sophisticated.


Yellow and Brown: A Muted Palette


Regarding muted background colors, yellow accessories look great on brown suits. Because they are closer in tone (brown can be made using yellow with other tints), brown still allows yellow to shine without creating too much contrast; brown remains the background without totally disappearing.


Yellow and Green: Earthy Combinations


Green is made from a combination of yellow and blue, so it isn’t surprising that green is another option to pair with yellow. The earthier versions of these colors look best together—usually, green is the accent color. 

A sport coat in the ochre or camel tone looks good with a forest green tie in winter. An olive green sport coat can be equally accessorized with an earthy yellow knit vest for autumn flair. Both colors are excellent choices for pants when paired with accessories of the other tone.


Yellow and Burgundy: A Fall Favorite


A second excellent pairing for colder weather is wearing a sports coat in a warm yellow tone with burgundy or maroon trousers, a tie, or a waistcoat. This combination works well in the fall and into winter.


Yellow Outfit Ideas & Styling for Men



man in yellow - What Colors Go with Yellow



Begin your journey into wearing yellow with accessories like ties, pocket squares, and socks. These subtle pieces allow you to start small and experiment. An important advice is to avoid shiny satin silks, bright gold, and wide ties. 

With yellow accessories, less is more, and subtlety is the key to success. Any bright tie risks distracting people's attention from your face where you want it to be. Pastels and soft yellows are especially nice tones when choosing with a solid yellow tie.


Patterned Yellows


​If you prefer a pattern, this buff ancient madder printed silk tie from Fort Belvedere works perfectly with various blue jackets from sky blue to navy and gray. The yellow here is relatively restrained.

Remember that you can start even smaller by choosing a tie with yellow stripes accompanying a more subdued ground color you are already used to, like this navy tie from Fort Belvedere.


Yellow Accents


A white linen pocket square with just a shoestring border in yellow or gold similarly adds a hint of color and can be paired with a tie containing some yellow touches.

For a unique approach, add yellow as a floral boutonniere, such as a yellow carnation boutonniere. It's an inexpensive investment that adds a touch of spring to your lapel.


Yellow Socks


Remember socks as a yellow accessory. While some may like to wear brightly colored socks as a statement, a more elegant and subtle choice would be a fil d’ecosse shadow stripe incorporating yellow and navy.


Add Yellow Vests and Waistcoats


Whether you're dressing smart casually or in highly formal morning wear, yellow has a place in your wardrobe, whether it's a waistcoat or vest.

A pastel yellow knitted vest or cardigan is a solid transitional piece to wear in early spring weather when it's still cold out, but you want to bring in a color of the season.


Morning Wear


On the other hand, if you find yourself at an occasion for morning wear, like attending Royal Ascot in the UK or your wedding, a yellow or buff waistcoat is an entirely acceptable way of brightening the charcoals and grays within a highly regulated dress code. 

The color is perfect for spring and early summer events like garden parties and horse races. You might wear a morning dress, perhaps with a pink or pastel blue tie like Prince Harry during these events.


Graduate to Yellow Sports Coats


In the United States, many people will be familiar with yellow sports coats from the iconic jackets worn by football Hall of Famers. The NFL is insistent on calling them gold for the association with excellence implied by that precious metal. 

Interestingly, these are made-to-measure by Haggar with wool woven in India dyed with a secret combination of pigments; the "gold" is meant to look good on television. 


Versatile Yellow


Whatever it's called, the color is helpful as an example from the yellow family that isn't too overwhelming and that can be matched with trousers and ties of various colors.

I own a yellow Hopsack sports coat, one of my favorites in warmer weather. I can quickly wear it with navy tropical wool trousers, blue chinos, or white cotton trousers with or without various blue ties. Similarly to the Hall of Fame jackets, it's a subtle yellow.


Summer Style


When the weather is hot and sunny, that is the only opportunity to wear equally bright tones in yellow jackets, such as ones in linen, with or without patterns.

Conditions of solid sunlight tend to beat back the yellow and make it less visually shocking, though, admittedly, the look is still bold and only for some. An intense yellow does pair nicely with solid indigo denim or blue gingham shirts.


Winter Yellows


In cold weather, browner yellows like ochre and camel are the best choice and are restrained. Because the yellow tones are already muted, they act like neutrals. 

As discussed above, these enable pairings with other winter colors like forest green, brown, and burgundy while brightening your seasonal look.


Yellow Trousers Make a Bold Statement


Try yellow chinos for an Italian summer look or to achieve the style of the go-to hell pants worn on the US East Coast. Bright trousers may get a lot of attention depending on where you live, but they're perfect to wear in places like Rome or Naples, Martha's Vineyard or the Hamptons, and at a resort.


Pastel Pairing


Again, blue is the way to go with yellow chinos in the form of a shirt and sports coat. A blue jacket will more than a shirt alone subdue the yellow of the trousers. 

If wearing yellow trousers, I prefer a pastel rather than a hotter yellow, something closer to the color of lemonade than the lemon itself. As a rule, pastels or lighter yellows go with lighter blues, while hot yellows require richer blues.


Yellow Outerwear is the Boldest Choice


At the Pitti Uomo winter show held each January in Florence, you will see at least one Casentino wool overcoat in yellow. It's a bold move that leans toward peacock style, but it is often said that what is outrageous in a suit or sportcoat can be acceptable in an overcoat, such as:

  • Wide lapels

  • Strong patterns

  • Brilliant colors

If you find it too forceful, camel is an easy fallback option. The yellow is softened by brown, which is appropriate when you wear an overcoat in cold weather.


Casual Look


A shorter hip-length raincoat in yellow canvas in spring or fall could work for a more casual look, especially with blue denim or chinos. 

A deep yellow raincoat like this one from Luciano Barbera seems appropriate for rainy conditions, just as a bright yellow sports coat would be in strong summer sunlight.


What to Avoid with Yellow


No Bright Yellow Dress Shirts


Most of our emphasis in this article has been on yellow as an accent color or in pastels and subdued tones when worn as clothing. There are several reasons why yellow dress shirts are rare.

 

Skin Tone


As with any brightly colored shirt, an important consideration when wearing a yellow shirt is how it will match your complexion since it represents a large swath of color so close to your face. 

I used to wear a yellow dress shirt when I was younger, but when I went into an Italian haberdasher in Rome, I was bluntly told that it didn't suit my complexion. 


Classic Style


It was a wake-up call, and the lesson was to avoid brightly colored dress shirts altogether. It's not a classic style. If yellow is worn as a shirt, choose a very pale pastel yellow that suits your complexion or a casual polo or golf shirt.


Avoid Wearing a Quantity of Yellow at the Same Time


This may go without saying, but unless you want to look like Big Bird from Sesame Street or a lightbulb, it's best to avoid wearing multiple yellow articles of clothing simultaneously. 

Except with small accessories like a boutonniere flower and necktie, one article of yellow at a time is a good rule. Following this, one should never wear a yellow suit.


Don't Combine Two Different Yellows


Expanding on the advice above, wearing even two items in yellow can be tricky since there are so many variations on the color. 

If your yellow items are close in tone but not exact, the difference will be jarring and clash visibly. This is true of any two colors, not just yellow, so care needs to be taken to coordinate properly.


Avoid Combining Flashy Details with Yellow


This is an excellent rule for almost all bright colors in menswear, with a few exceptions. Avoid shiny fabrics, loud or irreverent patterns, and yellow shoes. These over-the-top fashion choices are a cry for attention and tend to look cheap.


Don't Ignore Seasonal Conditions


A guiding principle in this guide has been thinking about seasons and weather. A pastel yellow sports coat would look out of season in the middle of winter, just like a camel would be unusual in summer, so be sure to follow the year's rhythm.


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Think You Can't Wear Yellow? Try These 16 Outfit Ideas



woman in yellow - What Colors Go with Yellow



Yellow is the brightest hue on the color wheel, making it a tricky color to wear. If you’re hesitant about donning this warm shade, remember that yellow comes in so that there’s bound to be one that works for you. Keep scrolling for our favorite ideas.


1. Yellow Bag


A bag is a low-key way to wear yellow if it feels like a stressful color. Because light yellow is closer to white in the color family, a simple rule of thumb is to take an outfit where you might pick a white bag and swap it out for a yellow one instead—an all-black outfit benefits from the pop of color a small, structured yellow bag can offer.


2. Yellow Glasses


Another very low-key way to mix yellow into your wardrobe is with some cool shades. Frames with colored lenses are back in style, and yellow is popular. 

Since sunglasses are usually neutral, you can treat them as an all-black pair, as with this outfit featuring a colorful shirt, dress, and green bag.


3. Butter Yellow


One way to dip a toe is by picking a light, creamy color. Butter yellow, a popular choice for designers, is just a few shades deeper than cream. That makes it easier to go all out in head-to-toe yellow, as Jessie Bush does here.


4. Yellow on the Bottom


Olive oil green and muted yellow are trending colors, and this light lime color effortlessly straddles both. Because it's light, it pairs well with the white and silver in the rest of the outfit. This skirt also feels less intense than a dress in the same color, so it's a little more multifunctional, and you can wear it with different tops.


5. Bright Yellow on Top


Another way to break up how much yellow you have in your outfit is to wear it on top (and match it with a shoe or bag). This floral tube top feels bright and summery, contrasting with the wide belt and heavier black pants. The pants and shoes also help ground the look.


6. Yellow With Bright Colors

Maximalism, or leaning into a style's big expression, also applies to color. Here, there's a color-block approach to yellow, with big patches in the dress echoing in the graphic rainbow bag. 

Gold jewelry goes well with yellow, as in the case of these large hoops. If you’re leaning in, lean in with matching shoes, too.


7. Yellow and Pink


Another way to use color-blocking is to pair two contrasting colors (in this case, pink, orange, and greenish-yellow) together. 

This takes a little practice to get right, but if you stick to a single color in the outfit and then offer contrast in the accessories, it’ll help the look feel cool and streamlined instead of just busy.


8. A Yellow Coat


This might be the trickiest type of outfit to pull off, but Neneh Cherry is showing us how to land the all-yellow statement outfit.


Tonal Look


Ensure the banana-yellow hue matches your skin tone and hair color, then invest in a quality piece that fits and looks amazing. 

This coat would work well over an all-black outfit, but it’s a tonal look here: everything is either yellow, yellow-patterned or almost yellow.


9. Light, Light Yellow


We have light yellow on the absolute opposite end of the (color) spectrum. Here, it’s not immediately obvious that the pattern is even yellow, so the look has more nuance than might appear at first glance. 

This is another low-stakes way to try out some yellow outfits. The pattern is substantial enough to be fun and exciting but isn’t intense.


10. Yellow Patterned


Georgia May Jagger gives us yet another way to incorporate yellow into your look: the yellow pattern. Adding pink helps make the yellow feel less intense, and the near-match pattern on top (with a color that skews slightly greener) gives visual interest.

Keeping the brighter yellow on the bottom half is particularly useful if your hair is close to the same color. Too much yellow can feel matchy-matchy.


11. Yellow With Pastels


Like an all-yellow look, an all-pastel one can take a lot of work. So, the trick is to match pieces: the yellow in the bag matches the yellow in the shoes; there's green in the top and the visible underwear; the pink in the scarf and pants complements those two colors. 

Each piece matches some other element of the outfit; in other words, there are only three major colors throughout. If the ‘70s are your vibe, this is the outfit for you.


12. Yellow Coord


A woman wears a light yellow top and bottom with black accessories. Light lemon-yellow is a luscious but subtle shade. It’s brighter than butter yellow but makes sense for everyday looks. 

Black accessories keep the look from feeling too summery or beachy, and the fact that you can re-wear the top and bottom separately in other outfits makes this multifunctional, too.


13. Yellow Floral


Incorporating yellow into your looks will be easy if you’re not afraid of color and patterns. Instead of a floral pattern on a black background, go with a yellow canvas instead. 

Here, the big, colorful pattern matches the intensity of the yellow. The whole look is eye-catching but not overwhelming.


14. Yellow and Beige


If you like mustard yellow, seek out a piece in a slightly more subtle shade, like these Grey Poupon-y pants. 

The shade goes well with beige, tan, and light neutral colors (as with this brown and beige floral top), but it still feels like a fun and surprising alternative to a more traditional color.


15. Asymmetric Yellow


Are you playing around with shape? Yellow is the perfect choice here. This skirt's asymmetric hem is attractive, but the yellow color takes it from basic to statement. 

The light yellow color is also ideal for pairing with a light top and accessories, a darker color in outerwear, or both.


16. Yellow Suiting


If you’re unsure about yellow, switch out the color, not the clothing. In other words, if you like your black and navy suits, try one in yellow. The shape and structure will still be familiar to you so that the look may feel more comfortable with a new style in your wardrobe. 

Yellow works perfectly as a summer suit color, while a canvas bag and rattan shoes will make the look feel casual but still put together.


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Top Tips to Wear Yellow and Brighten Up Your Day!



woman in yellow dress - What Colors Go with Yellow



Yellow can go from muted and subtle to eye-searingly bright and bold, and there are many different shades. Do you prefer the softer hues, like butter or buttermilk? Or do bold yellows like canary or saffron speak to you? 

Explore yellow’s many shades to find the color that speaks to you. The key is to choose a yellow that you’re drawn to and makes you feel great.


Team Yellow With Neutrals for Easy Styling 


Canary yellow can look stunning all on its own, but for an easy way to style yellow, team it with neutrals. Shades like black, navy, tan, and white look great against yellow. If you want to experiment with color, go for it! 

A vibrant yellow can look amazing with other bright colors, like electric blue. But yellow’s boldness can be more approachable with a neutral palette, making the experience of wearing such a striking shade less intimidating.


Wear Yellow With Confidence


My number one tip for wearing yellow is to forget that it’s a frightening color. Generally, people I spoke to seemed worried that yellow would make them look silly or attention-seeking. 

In fact, while yellow certainly does get you noticed, all the comments I received were positive. While I can’t necessarily say wearing yellow made me feel happier, the compliments did!


Try AI Personal Color Analysis For Free Today


WhatColors helps you find what colors to wear based on your skin tone. Finally, get your season based on our skin tone, thanks to our patented color match technology. 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 perfect nail colors with our WhatColors nail color generator. 

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Yellow is the color of happiness and sunshine, so it’s no wonder you’re keen to add it to your wardrobe. But if you are unsure what colors go with yellow, you may hesitate to wear this bright shade that packs a cheerful punch. Understanding how to match yellow with other colors will help you unlock its full potential and create eye-catching outfits that make you want to wear yellow daily. This blog will explore creative and stylish color combinations to make yellow easy to wear and enhance your wardrobe with fresh, vibrant outfit ideas.

WhatColors’ AI personal color analysis app can help you discover what colors go with yellow (and other colors!) based on your unique preferences and personal style. This tool lets you find best color combinations that suit your tastes and complement your natural coloring. This way, you can confidently tackle what colors go with yellow and start creating fun outfits that incorporate this cheerful hue.


Table of Contents


  • Is Yellow a Good Color?

  • Which Shade and Tone of Yellow Suits You?

  • What Colors Go with Yellow

  • Can Cool Seasons Wear Yellow?

  • How to Wear Yellow as a Menswear Color

  • Yellow Outfit Ideas & Styling for Men

  • Think You Can't Wear Yellow? Try These 16 Outfit Ideas

  • Top Tips to Wear Yellow and Brighten Up Your Day!

  • Try AI Personal Color Analysis For Free Today


Is Yellow a Good Color?



person wearing yellow skirt - What Colors Go with Yellow




Yellow can be bright and intense, often invoking such strong feelings. Color psychology suggests that specific colors evoke distinct moods and can even influence behavior and well-being. While color associations often vary based on individual experiences and cultural differences, some colors consistently evoke certain moods or feelings. The color yellow is one of them.

When you think of yellow, what comes to mind? For many, it’s a cheerful color that evokes images of flowers and sunshine. Others may associate it with less pleasant memories. Your own experiences will shape how yellow makes you feel.


The Good: Positive Associations with Yellow


Some of the key characteristics associated with the color yellow include:

  • Attention-grabbing: Since yellow is the most visible color, it is also the most attention-getting color. Yellow can be used in small amounts to draw notice, such as on traffic signs or advertisements. Researchers have found that yellow stands out more than any other color, making it a safety color to help draw attention to important information or dangers in a person’s environment.

  • Energetic: Yellow can also increase metabolism.

  • Warm: Yellow is a bright color often described as cheery and warm.

  • Symbolic Meaning of Yellow: Some symbolic meanings of yellow include hope, joy, light, confidence, and dignity. Interestingly, the symbolic meanings of color only sometimes correspond to some of the metaphorical uses of the term. While yellow is associated with joy, it’s often metaphorically linked to cowardice and fear.


The Bad: Negative Associations with Yellow


Though yellow has many positive associations, it can also evoke negative feelings. Some of these include:

  • Difficult to read: Yellow is the most fatiguing color to the eye due to the high amount of reflected light. Using yellow as a background on paper or computer monitors can lead to eyestrain or vision loss in extreme cases. 

  • Frustrating: Yellow can create feelings of frustration and anger. While it’s considered a cheerful color, people are likelier to lose their tempers in yellow rooms, and babies tend to cry more in yellow rooms. 

  • Danger: Yellow is a warning color in several situations. It’s used on caution signs and to color code specific hazards.


Yellow Is Energetic


Yellow is often perceived as a high-energy color. It’s used in situations and products intended to create a sense of excitement or energy. Fully saturated yellow is only suitable for brief exposure because its stimulating effect is so powerful that it can quickly build up emotional energy.

It should be noted that a less saturated yellow, such as that found in whipped vegetable spread (faux butter), is mildly pleasing and cheery.


Yellow Can Be Aggressive


While yellow can be an energetic color, this intensity can also have a downside. Sometimes, it can come off as very aggressive and even confrontational. In large quantities, people may feel irritated or even angry when surrounded by yellow.

Yellow is associated with aggression and frustration. The walls of my school are all yellow, and since the new building opened, more fights have occurred in the hallways where there is the most yellow. Also, some of the classrooms with yellow are associated with more frustrated students.  Other readers also reported that they find yellow a highly irritating color.


Yellow Is Complex

Of course, the effects of yellow can be highly varied and complex. Some people respond to this color in different ways. While some people might find it bright and cheery, others may find it grating and obnoxious. 

Some may associate it with a warm summer day, while to others, it might be reminiscent of bad memories or associations. Yellow is a happy color associated with flowers and sunshine. But our kitchen is painted yellow, and I find that my fiancé, who has a short temper, almost always loses it in the kitchen.

He also becomes much more impatient and argumentative. I have always suspected that it is the color of the walls. Guests also tend to eat their food faster at the kitchen table than when we entertain in the dining room (white) or outside.\


Yellow Is Cheerful


For many people, yellow is a bright and cheerful color. Advertisers use it to draw attention and evoke a sense of happiness. Halfway through the year, my math classroom was painted bright yellow. 

It completely changed the atmosphere, and everyone’s grades seemed to go up. Our teacher joked it must be the new paint job, but I believed it was. It gave a cheery atmosphere, and the lessons were far more light and enjoyable!


Related Reading


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Which Shade and Tone of Yellow Suits You?



people wearing yellow - What Colors Go with Yellow



Yellow is such a happy, cheerful color. But can everyone wear it? Well, most yellows indeed have a warmer undertone to them, so for those with more astonishing elements to their coloring, they can be trickier to wear. 

When more white is added to yellow, it becomes more relaxed. So if this is you, you must look for a paler yellow. Or simply wear it in a cooler color, maybe gray or navy.

Here’s a quick rundown of the types of yellows that suit each coloring type and how you can wear them.


Light+Warm


The lighter, warm yellows, like primrose, are great for you.


Light+Cool


The pale, cool yellows are great for you.


Deep+Warm


You’ll look lovely in a bold, warm yellow in a pattern or worn in contrast with a darker outer layer.


Deep+Cool


You’ll look great wearing a cool yellow in a pattern with a darker, bolder background or wearing your yellow top with a darker cardigan.


Warm+Bright


Yellow is a fabulous color for you. The brighter, the better. Now’s the time to stock up!


Warm+Smokey


Yellows are fabulous on you, especially the softer-toned varieties like mustard.


Cool+Bright


Yellows are generally not the best colors if you have cool coloring, so choose a cool yellow and pair it with one of your darker cool colors to create contrast, eg, dark navy and cool pale yellow.

Cool+Smokey


Again, yellows are generally not your best color, so like the cool+bright types, you’d be best off wearing a small amount of them with one of your lovely cool colors or in a mix in a pattern.


Bright+Warm


A bold, warm yellow, perhaps paired with one of your darker colors or within a pattern, is great for you.


Bright+Cool


Choose a bold yellow with a cooler undertone and create contrast by pairing it with a dark color or wearing a yellow pattern.


Smokey+Warm


All the gentle mustard and chartreuse tones will look lovely on you.


Smokey+Cool


Choose the cooler-toned yellows that will set off your cooler features.


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What Colors Go with Yellow



white and yellow skirt - What Colors Go with Yellow



Yellow and White: The Perfect Summer Combination


Nothing beats the classic white and yellow color combination in the summer. This pairing is fresh and clean and perfect for creating a light, airy look. 

Whether wearing a yellow sundress or yellow shorts, pairing it with a white top or accessory can help balance the bold color combinations. You can even experiment with shades of white, such as off-white or cream, for a more subtle and relaxed vibe.


Yellow and Denim: A Casual yet Chic Look


Pair yellow with denim to create a more casual yet chic look. Yellow creates a laid-back and effortless look that is perfect for summer. 

Whether you're wearing a yellow top with denim shorts or a yellow dress with a denim jacket, this denim and yellow color combination is sure to make you stand out from the crowd.


Yellow and Blue: A Bold and Striking Combination


For those looking to make a bold statement this summer, the blue and yellow color combination is a winning choice. They create a striking, eye-catching look that will turn heads when paired. 

Whether wearing a yellow skirt with a blue top or a blue dress with yellow accessories, this color combination creates a perfect statement outfit for any occasion.


Yellow and Green: A Refreshing and Natural Combination


If you want to create a more natural and refreshing look this summer, pairing the yellow color with green is a great choice. Green is often associated with nature and the outdoors, making it perfect for summer. 

When paired with yellow, it creates a refreshing and vibrant combination perfect for a picnic in the park or a day at the beach.


Yellow and Pink: A Fun and Flirty Combination


For those who love to add a touch of femininity to their look, the pink and yellow color combination is fun and flirty, perfect for summer. Pink is often associated with romance and love, making it an excellent choice for a summer date night. 

Paired with yellow, it creates a playful and youthful look that will make you feel confident and beautiful. Whether wearing a yellow skirt with a pink top or a pink dress with yellow accessories, this color combination is perfect for creating a fun and flirty outfit for any occasion.


Yellow and Purple: For A Bold And K-Pop Vibe


Yellow and purple may seem unusual, but they can create a stunning and bold look. This color combination works well for those who want to make a statement with their summer clothing. 

The key is to use these colors in the proper proportions. A yellow dress with purple accessories looks fantastic, and the opposite works. This combination is great for a fun and playful summer look.


Yellow And Gray


Most people wouldn’t even think of combining gray and yellow, but it is a trendy and a bit more out there style. This is mixing the seasons and creating an all-year-round look. 

It is usually perfect for accessorizing with yellow, such as a nice purse bag or shoes, and has a gray base for your outfit. This makes the accessories stand out and become noticeable.


Yellow And Orange


Some might think this contrast is too much for anyone, but it doesn’t have to be! It all depends on the different tones that you pick out. These colors create a sense of energy and vibrance, which many people want to achieve in their closets. 

Orange coats or blazers are the way forward; they collaborate well with bright yellow dresses and skirts! You can even accessorize with bags and shoes to add to the color. You want it to be balanced but bright, and it can be challenging to achieve that sometimes, but it is all trial and error with your closet.


Yellow and Black


Black would be a cop-out—doesn't it go with everything? But I've never worn black with yellow before for fear of looking like I'm wearing a bumblebee costume. 

But pale yellow? I'm a convert. Jet black will work hard to balance the sweetness of pale yellow, bringing depth and warmth to the light and airy shade and creating a chic combination.


Pale Yellow and Khaki


A deep khaki pairing will juxtapose the pretty nature of pastel yellow, creating contrast in your outfit for an easy but elevated pairing.


Pale Yellow and Beige


If you live in neutrals, adding pale yellow to your repertoire will help pep up even your oldest and most worn pieces. This light, tonal pairing of butter, yellow, and beige creates a cohesive base that you can layer up with plenty of jewels and accessories.


Specific Color Pairings


  • Bright yellow goes well with white for a fresh look. Black and yellow are bold together.

  • Lemon yellow pairs nicely with navy blue or olive green. These combinations are both striking and sophisticated.

  • Mustard yellow looks great with dark brown or burgundy. These darker shades provide a nice contrast.

  • Pastel yellow works well with soft pink, lavender, or off-white. This gives a gentle, romantic feel to your outfit.


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Can Cool Seasons Wear Yellow?



woman in yellow - What Colors Go with Yellow




Yellow is an excellent addition to your wardrobe when you have a fantastic seasonal color palette. Sure, it is a warm color, but it can be incorporated into outfits for cool-toned individuals, like Summers and Winters, especially when paired with cooler hues or selected in lighter, pastel versions.


Finding the Right Shade of Yellow


It’s all about finding the right shade when selecting yellow for cool color palettes. Cooler yellows, like lemon yellow, are ideal for Winters, while Summers should look for soft, pastel versions of yellow.


Tips for Wearing Yellow


If you are nervous about wearing yellow, start small. Select a few accessories, such as shoes, handbags, or jewelry, to add yellow to your look. Then, explore how to incorporate yellow into your wardrobe by pairing it with your favorite cool colors.


How to Wear Yellow as a Menswear Color



man in yellow shirt - What Colors Go with Yellow




Yellow includes many colors with exciting names: buff, butter, gold, mustard, ochre, and even tan, which contains some yellow. Depending on its tone, yellow can be a strong accent or treated like a neutral. 

This makes it a possibility for multiple seasons and climate conditions. In spring, a pastel yellow tie pairs well with sky blue, for example, while in hotter weather, a valid yellow knit tie or mustard linen jacket might be chosen. In winter, rich yellows containing brown are ideal, as in an ochre sportcoat.


Yellow and Blue: A Classic Duo


Blue is the classic (and easiest) color to pair with yellow. Matching yellow and blue is a no-brainer, as they are in opposite quadrants on the color wheel, so they are generally complementary.


Bright Contrast


The dominance of blue in tailored menswear (think of the classic navy suit) invites the addition of yellow. Be sure to match the tones of both colors. A bright yellow tie works better with a royal blue suit than dark navy, where the contrast may be too high. 

Bright yellow and blue pairings most frequently appear in warm weather, while more muted combinations of the color suit cooler temperatures.


Yellow and Gray: Brighten Up the Dull


Yellow is an excellent way to brighten up gray, a prominent menswear color. For those who find gray a bit drab, yellow accessories can lighten up otherwise very gray outfits. 

A lighter to mid-gray suit and pastel yellow pairing work best. Alternatively, a warm yellow sportcoat and gray trousers are even more unique and sophisticated.


Yellow and Brown: A Muted Palette


Regarding muted background colors, yellow accessories look great on brown suits. Because they are closer in tone (brown can be made using yellow with other tints), brown still allows yellow to shine without creating too much contrast; brown remains the background without totally disappearing.


Yellow and Green: Earthy Combinations


Green is made from a combination of yellow and blue, so it isn’t surprising that green is another option to pair with yellow. The earthier versions of these colors look best together—usually, green is the accent color. 

A sport coat in the ochre or camel tone looks good with a forest green tie in winter. An olive green sport coat can be equally accessorized with an earthy yellow knit vest for autumn flair. Both colors are excellent choices for pants when paired with accessories of the other tone.


Yellow and Burgundy: A Fall Favorite


A second excellent pairing for colder weather is wearing a sports coat in a warm yellow tone with burgundy or maroon trousers, a tie, or a waistcoat. This combination works well in the fall and into winter.


Yellow Outfit Ideas & Styling for Men



man in yellow - What Colors Go with Yellow



Begin your journey into wearing yellow with accessories like ties, pocket squares, and socks. These subtle pieces allow you to start small and experiment. An important advice is to avoid shiny satin silks, bright gold, and wide ties. 

With yellow accessories, less is more, and subtlety is the key to success. Any bright tie risks distracting people's attention from your face where you want it to be. Pastels and soft yellows are especially nice tones when choosing with a solid yellow tie.


Patterned Yellows


​If you prefer a pattern, this buff ancient madder printed silk tie from Fort Belvedere works perfectly with various blue jackets from sky blue to navy and gray. The yellow here is relatively restrained.

Remember that you can start even smaller by choosing a tie with yellow stripes accompanying a more subdued ground color you are already used to, like this navy tie from Fort Belvedere.


Yellow Accents


A white linen pocket square with just a shoestring border in yellow or gold similarly adds a hint of color and can be paired with a tie containing some yellow touches.

For a unique approach, add yellow as a floral boutonniere, such as a yellow carnation boutonniere. It's an inexpensive investment that adds a touch of spring to your lapel.


Yellow Socks


Remember socks as a yellow accessory. While some may like to wear brightly colored socks as a statement, a more elegant and subtle choice would be a fil d’ecosse shadow stripe incorporating yellow and navy.


Add Yellow Vests and Waistcoats


Whether you're dressing smart casually or in highly formal morning wear, yellow has a place in your wardrobe, whether it's a waistcoat or vest.

A pastel yellow knitted vest or cardigan is a solid transitional piece to wear in early spring weather when it's still cold out, but you want to bring in a color of the season.


Morning Wear


On the other hand, if you find yourself at an occasion for morning wear, like attending Royal Ascot in the UK or your wedding, a yellow or buff waistcoat is an entirely acceptable way of brightening the charcoals and grays within a highly regulated dress code. 

The color is perfect for spring and early summer events like garden parties and horse races. You might wear a morning dress, perhaps with a pink or pastel blue tie like Prince Harry during these events.


Graduate to Yellow Sports Coats


In the United States, many people will be familiar with yellow sports coats from the iconic jackets worn by football Hall of Famers. The NFL is insistent on calling them gold for the association with excellence implied by that precious metal. 

Interestingly, these are made-to-measure by Haggar with wool woven in India dyed with a secret combination of pigments; the "gold" is meant to look good on television. 


Versatile Yellow


Whatever it's called, the color is helpful as an example from the yellow family that isn't too overwhelming and that can be matched with trousers and ties of various colors.

I own a yellow Hopsack sports coat, one of my favorites in warmer weather. I can quickly wear it with navy tropical wool trousers, blue chinos, or white cotton trousers with or without various blue ties. Similarly to the Hall of Fame jackets, it's a subtle yellow.


Summer Style


When the weather is hot and sunny, that is the only opportunity to wear equally bright tones in yellow jackets, such as ones in linen, with or without patterns.

Conditions of solid sunlight tend to beat back the yellow and make it less visually shocking, though, admittedly, the look is still bold and only for some. An intense yellow does pair nicely with solid indigo denim or blue gingham shirts.


Winter Yellows


In cold weather, browner yellows like ochre and camel are the best choice and are restrained. Because the yellow tones are already muted, they act like neutrals. 

As discussed above, these enable pairings with other winter colors like forest green, brown, and burgundy while brightening your seasonal look.


Yellow Trousers Make a Bold Statement


Try yellow chinos for an Italian summer look or to achieve the style of the go-to hell pants worn on the US East Coast. Bright trousers may get a lot of attention depending on where you live, but they're perfect to wear in places like Rome or Naples, Martha's Vineyard or the Hamptons, and at a resort.


Pastel Pairing


Again, blue is the way to go with yellow chinos in the form of a shirt and sports coat. A blue jacket will more than a shirt alone subdue the yellow of the trousers. 

If wearing yellow trousers, I prefer a pastel rather than a hotter yellow, something closer to the color of lemonade than the lemon itself. As a rule, pastels or lighter yellows go with lighter blues, while hot yellows require richer blues.


Yellow Outerwear is the Boldest Choice


At the Pitti Uomo winter show held each January in Florence, you will see at least one Casentino wool overcoat in yellow. It's a bold move that leans toward peacock style, but it is often said that what is outrageous in a suit or sportcoat can be acceptable in an overcoat, such as:

  • Wide lapels

  • Strong patterns

  • Brilliant colors

If you find it too forceful, camel is an easy fallback option. The yellow is softened by brown, which is appropriate when you wear an overcoat in cold weather.


Casual Look


A shorter hip-length raincoat in yellow canvas in spring or fall could work for a more casual look, especially with blue denim or chinos. 

A deep yellow raincoat like this one from Luciano Barbera seems appropriate for rainy conditions, just as a bright yellow sports coat would be in strong summer sunlight.


What to Avoid with Yellow


No Bright Yellow Dress Shirts


Most of our emphasis in this article has been on yellow as an accent color or in pastels and subdued tones when worn as clothing. There are several reasons why yellow dress shirts are rare.

 

Skin Tone


As with any brightly colored shirt, an important consideration when wearing a yellow shirt is how it will match your complexion since it represents a large swath of color so close to your face. 

I used to wear a yellow dress shirt when I was younger, but when I went into an Italian haberdasher in Rome, I was bluntly told that it didn't suit my complexion. 


Classic Style


It was a wake-up call, and the lesson was to avoid brightly colored dress shirts altogether. It's not a classic style. If yellow is worn as a shirt, choose a very pale pastel yellow that suits your complexion or a casual polo or golf shirt.


Avoid Wearing a Quantity of Yellow at the Same Time


This may go without saying, but unless you want to look like Big Bird from Sesame Street or a lightbulb, it's best to avoid wearing multiple yellow articles of clothing simultaneously. 

Except with small accessories like a boutonniere flower and necktie, one article of yellow at a time is a good rule. Following this, one should never wear a yellow suit.


Don't Combine Two Different Yellows


Expanding on the advice above, wearing even two items in yellow can be tricky since there are so many variations on the color. 

If your yellow items are close in tone but not exact, the difference will be jarring and clash visibly. This is true of any two colors, not just yellow, so care needs to be taken to coordinate properly.


Avoid Combining Flashy Details with Yellow


This is an excellent rule for almost all bright colors in menswear, with a few exceptions. Avoid shiny fabrics, loud or irreverent patterns, and yellow shoes. These over-the-top fashion choices are a cry for attention and tend to look cheap.


Don't Ignore Seasonal Conditions


A guiding principle in this guide has been thinking about seasons and weather. A pastel yellow sports coat would look out of season in the middle of winter, just like a camel would be unusual in summer, so be sure to follow the year's rhythm.


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Think You Can't Wear Yellow? Try These 16 Outfit Ideas



woman in yellow - What Colors Go with Yellow



Yellow is the brightest hue on the color wheel, making it a tricky color to wear. If you’re hesitant about donning this warm shade, remember that yellow comes in so that there’s bound to be one that works for you. Keep scrolling for our favorite ideas.


1. Yellow Bag


A bag is a low-key way to wear yellow if it feels like a stressful color. Because light yellow is closer to white in the color family, a simple rule of thumb is to take an outfit where you might pick a white bag and swap it out for a yellow one instead—an all-black outfit benefits from the pop of color a small, structured yellow bag can offer.


2. Yellow Glasses


Another very low-key way to mix yellow into your wardrobe is with some cool shades. Frames with colored lenses are back in style, and yellow is popular. 

Since sunglasses are usually neutral, you can treat them as an all-black pair, as with this outfit featuring a colorful shirt, dress, and green bag.


3. Butter Yellow


One way to dip a toe is by picking a light, creamy color. Butter yellow, a popular choice for designers, is just a few shades deeper than cream. That makes it easier to go all out in head-to-toe yellow, as Jessie Bush does here.


4. Yellow on the Bottom


Olive oil green and muted yellow are trending colors, and this light lime color effortlessly straddles both. Because it's light, it pairs well with the white and silver in the rest of the outfit. This skirt also feels less intense than a dress in the same color, so it's a little more multifunctional, and you can wear it with different tops.


5. Bright Yellow on Top


Another way to break up how much yellow you have in your outfit is to wear it on top (and match it with a shoe or bag). This floral tube top feels bright and summery, contrasting with the wide belt and heavier black pants. The pants and shoes also help ground the look.


6. Yellow With Bright Colors

Maximalism, or leaning into a style's big expression, also applies to color. Here, there's a color-block approach to yellow, with big patches in the dress echoing in the graphic rainbow bag. 

Gold jewelry goes well with yellow, as in the case of these large hoops. If you’re leaning in, lean in with matching shoes, too.


7. Yellow and Pink


Another way to use color-blocking is to pair two contrasting colors (in this case, pink, orange, and greenish-yellow) together. 

This takes a little practice to get right, but if you stick to a single color in the outfit and then offer contrast in the accessories, it’ll help the look feel cool and streamlined instead of just busy.


8. A Yellow Coat


This might be the trickiest type of outfit to pull off, but Neneh Cherry is showing us how to land the all-yellow statement outfit.


Tonal Look


Ensure the banana-yellow hue matches your skin tone and hair color, then invest in a quality piece that fits and looks amazing. 

This coat would work well over an all-black outfit, but it’s a tonal look here: everything is either yellow, yellow-patterned or almost yellow.


9. Light, Light Yellow


We have light yellow on the absolute opposite end of the (color) spectrum. Here, it’s not immediately obvious that the pattern is even yellow, so the look has more nuance than might appear at first glance. 

This is another low-stakes way to try out some yellow outfits. The pattern is substantial enough to be fun and exciting but isn’t intense.


10. Yellow Patterned


Georgia May Jagger gives us yet another way to incorporate yellow into your look: the yellow pattern. Adding pink helps make the yellow feel less intense, and the near-match pattern on top (with a color that skews slightly greener) gives visual interest.

Keeping the brighter yellow on the bottom half is particularly useful if your hair is close to the same color. Too much yellow can feel matchy-matchy.


11. Yellow With Pastels


Like an all-yellow look, an all-pastel one can take a lot of work. So, the trick is to match pieces: the yellow in the bag matches the yellow in the shoes; there's green in the top and the visible underwear; the pink in the scarf and pants complements those two colors. 

Each piece matches some other element of the outfit; in other words, there are only three major colors throughout. If the ‘70s are your vibe, this is the outfit for you.


12. Yellow Coord


A woman wears a light yellow top and bottom with black accessories. Light lemon-yellow is a luscious but subtle shade. It’s brighter than butter yellow but makes sense for everyday looks. 

Black accessories keep the look from feeling too summery or beachy, and the fact that you can re-wear the top and bottom separately in other outfits makes this multifunctional, too.


13. Yellow Floral


Incorporating yellow into your looks will be easy if you’re not afraid of color and patterns. Instead of a floral pattern on a black background, go with a yellow canvas instead. 

Here, the big, colorful pattern matches the intensity of the yellow. The whole look is eye-catching but not overwhelming.


14. Yellow and Beige


If you like mustard yellow, seek out a piece in a slightly more subtle shade, like these Grey Poupon-y pants. 

The shade goes well with beige, tan, and light neutral colors (as with this brown and beige floral top), but it still feels like a fun and surprising alternative to a more traditional color.


15. Asymmetric Yellow


Are you playing around with shape? Yellow is the perfect choice here. This skirt's asymmetric hem is attractive, but the yellow color takes it from basic to statement. 

The light yellow color is also ideal for pairing with a light top and accessories, a darker color in outerwear, or both.


16. Yellow Suiting


If you’re unsure about yellow, switch out the color, not the clothing. In other words, if you like your black and navy suits, try one in yellow. The shape and structure will still be familiar to you so that the look may feel more comfortable with a new style in your wardrobe. 

Yellow works perfectly as a summer suit color, while a canvas bag and rattan shoes will make the look feel casual but still put together.


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Top Tips to Wear Yellow and Brighten Up Your Day!



woman in yellow dress - What Colors Go with Yellow



Yellow can go from muted and subtle to eye-searingly bright and bold, and there are many different shades. Do you prefer the softer hues, like butter or buttermilk? Or do bold yellows like canary or saffron speak to you? 

Explore yellow’s many shades to find the color that speaks to you. The key is to choose a yellow that you’re drawn to and makes you feel great.


Team Yellow With Neutrals for Easy Styling 


Canary yellow can look stunning all on its own, but for an easy way to style yellow, team it with neutrals. Shades like black, navy, tan, and white look great against yellow. If you want to experiment with color, go for it! 

A vibrant yellow can look amazing with other bright colors, like electric blue. But yellow’s boldness can be more approachable with a neutral palette, making the experience of wearing such a striking shade less intimidating.


Wear Yellow With Confidence


My number one tip for wearing yellow is to forget that it’s a frightening color. Generally, people I spoke to seemed worried that yellow would make them look silly or attention-seeking. 

In fact, while yellow certainly does get you noticed, all the comments I received were positive. While I can’t necessarily say wearing yellow made me feel happier, the compliments did!


Try AI Personal Color Analysis For Free Today


WhatColors helps you find what colors to wear based on your skin tone. Finally, get your season based on our skin tone, thanks to our patented color match technology. 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 perfect nail colors with our WhatColors nail color generator. 

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