Clothing color combinations in only 5 steps

This post is also available in: Italiano

Do you really have time to study clothing color combinations or read an entire volume on the subject? In many articles, we have talked about matching colors for men, but I feel as though there is a need to simplify and create a guide on combining colors that is practical and simple. The fact remains that in-depth knowledge should be the goal of all men.

I have suggested a few times that you rely on the color wheel, but I come from a fine arts academy. Through this article, I want to share some essential ideas with those who need them immediately. I summarized it all in a quick guide: this article.

Table of Contents

Learn the fundamental of clothing color combinations

The color wheel is fine, but knowing which colors go well together is much easier.

Remembering these combinations is simple:

Red and green
Blue and orange
Yellow and purple

Here is an image that can help summarize the concept. Simply put, you have to memorize the complementary colors.

If you don’t want to look like a clown, you have to use duller and darker colors. For example, you can wear olive or dark green pants and a red-brown colored shirt.

This way you can use colors without excessive contrast.

Discover neutral colors

Neutral colors are not just white, gray and black. I’ve talked about it several times in this blog, and I think it’s one of the most important things to know.

There is a group of colors whose combination is practically always optimal and also serves as a basis for any other color you want to associate.

It is worth knowing about them: white, black, gray, light blue, navy blue, khaki and olive green.

Clothing color combinations with neutral colors.

Keep in mind that it is easier to wear dark colors in the lower part of the outfit than in the upper part, while the lighter colors in the opposite.

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Choose a single accent color

This is the point that creates the most confusion among men when matching colors. “How do I know if this red sweater looks good with those blue pants?”

And here’s how I do it: I start with neutral colors and add just one highlight color. Using dark-blue cotton pants as a base, I add a red shirt, a white shirt and brown shoes (neutral colors).

While the neutral colors combine harmoniously, a single bright color will contrast with the entire outfit, making it more interesting.