By harnessing the power of colour, you can create visually stunning outfits that make you feel confident and polished. Understanding colour theory before you start can make all the difference. Here are some simple tips to help you master the art of using colour.
Know the Basics
Before diving into complex colour combinations, it’s essential to understand your natural colour contrast and the basics of colour theory. The colour wheel is your best friend here. Colours that are opposite each other on the wheel (complementary colours) create a high contrast, which are great for those whose natural colouring has a high contrast (e.g., red hair, blue eyes, pink cheeks and lips). While colours that are adjacent to each other (analogous colours) provide a low contrast look for those with low colour contrast (e.g., brown hair, brown eyes, neutral skin and lips). If you don’t know your colour contrast, this is something you discover with a Colour Analysis Consultation.
Choose a dominant colour
Every outfit should have a dominant colour that sets the tone. This could be the colour of your top, dress, or even both separates pieces. Once you’ve chosen your dominant colour, you can use colour theory to select complementary or analogous colours to pair it with.
For example, choosing red as your dominant colour can create a bold and confident look. Start with a key piece in red, such as a red dress or a red blazer. This will be the standout element of your outfit. To add contrast, you could pair your red dress with a neutral belt and heels, or wear the red blazer over a soft white blouse with trousers in your best neutral colour. For accessories, consider neutral tones like a taupe/nude handbag or metallic jewellery to keep the focus on the red. Mixing textures, like a red satin blouse with a knit red cardigan, can also add depth and interest.
Experiment with complementary colours
For a bold and eye-catching look, pair complementary colours together. For example, if you’re wearing a navy blue top, you could pair it with yellow or orange accessories such as statement jewellery or a handbag. If you go with a pink dress, you could try a green blazer of a similar value (depth). The contrast between these colours creates a dynamic and visually impactful look. In the red blazer example, if you want to add a bit more colour use complementary colours like a turquoise necklace or teal scarf, which will pop against the red.
Really keen to experiment but not sure how to create a look that works? I have a Find Me an Outfit service where I pull together several outfit options to suit your specific purpose.
Analogous colours
If you prefer a more subtle and harmonious outfit, opt for analogous colours. Choose colours that are next to each other on the colour wheel, such as blue and teal, or red and orange. This keeps the look balanced and cohesive, without being too overwhelming.
Consider mood
Different colours evoke different emotions and moods. Colours have a “psychology” and communicate different messages. For example, warm colours like red and yellow are energising and bold, while blue communicates calm, intellect and serenity. Black says authority, power, invulnerable, mysterious. Browns are dependable, earthy, honest. Think about the mood you want to convey with your outfit and choose the corresponding colours.
What do your favourite colours say about you?
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Neutrals
It’s usually easiest to pick one of your neutrals as the starting base. Universal neutrals for all colouring, which are warm charcoal, marine navy, taupe, soft white, and neutral brown, are great for grounding your outfit and letting your chosen colours shine. Neutrals also work as an excellent “go-between” with all colours. They help balance out two bold or bright colours. They also help keep the outfit looking polished, if that’s your style personality.
Experiment
Have a little fun and experiment with different colours and combinations. Your style is a key form of self-expression so don’t be afraid to step out of your comfort zone and try something new. Who knows? You might discover a colour combination that you never thought would work but ends up becoming your signature look! Did you know we discover your “signature colours” as part of a Colour Analysis Consultation?
