Have you ever looked in your closet and felt completely overwhelmed by all the colors, styles, and textures at your disposal? Do you ever feel like you can never seem to pull together an outfit that looks sexy, sophisticated, and pulled together? If so, then never fear! Color coordination 101 is here to teach you the tricks and tips you could ever need to help create outfits with a harmonious combination of color, texture, and style.
1. Finding the Right Color Combination for Your Outfit
Choosing the right color combination to create a fashionable, eye-catching look can be tricky. To make sure you rise above the rest of the fashionista crowd, here are a few of our favorite tips to create a fabulously coordinated look:
- Start with a neutral shade: Neutral shades like black, white and grey are a great base for any look. They don’t overpower other colors and add balance to your outfit.
- Be bold: Don’t be afraid to brighten up your wardrobe with some vibrant colors. Adding a bright shade or two can make your outfit really stand out.
- Think of a color palette: From earth tones to pastels, preppie pinks to nautical blues, there are many great color palettes you can blend to create a fashionable ensemble. Pick one to work with and stay within the colors listed.
- Create a contrast: A great way to make sure all eyes are on you is to incorporate contrasting colors into your outfit. The key is to find the perfect shades to blend seamlessly and create a striking look for all occasions.
Without a doubt, finding the perfect color combination for your outfit can take some practice. Keep these tips in mind and don’t be afraid to experiment. Soon enough you’ll find the perfect style to turn heads and be the envy of everyone around you!
2. Learning to Use Color Contrast to Add Dimension to Your Look
Using color contrast in fashion is a great way to add interesting dimension to your look. From subtle shifts to dramatic statements, there are a variety of ways to incorporate contrasting colors – all depending on the desired effect. Here are a few tips to help you master this creative styling technique:
- Contrast in Color Values – Play around with the saturation of a color for a softer, more subtle contrast. For example, pair black and navy blue, or pink and peach for a muted, sophisticated look.
- Contrast in Color Depth – Notice how the color saturation changes from light to dark? This color depth can be used to create a striking contrast. For instance, place a pink shirt with dark blue jeans for a bold, eye-catching effect.
- Contrast in Colors – Perhaps the most recognizable form of contrast, choose two colors that are distinctly different from each other to really make a statement. Think lime green and yellow, or baby blue and maroon.
Once you’re confident with the basics, you can take this technique one step further by experimenting with tone on tone. Utilize the color wheel to find colors that complement each other’s shades and tones. A good rule of thumb – pair two, and only two colors per outfit. Too many colors can result in an overly busy look.
Using color contrast in fashion is a great way to add depth and interest to your look. Armed with these tips, you’re ready to take a creative approach to your wardrobe styling!
3. Walking the Line Between Too Much and Too Little: Accessorize to Perfection
Target Audience: Fashion Lovers.
When it comes to accessorizing your outfit, few things are as worrisome as walking the line between too much and too little. Think of it this way – you want to be the belle of the ball, and not having enough accessories won’t allow you to stand out, but having too much might draw unnecessary attention away from your outfit. To pepper your look with the perfect amount of accessories, follow these tips:
- Start with one conversation piece. The idea here is to get the most attention with the least amount of effort. A statement necklace, bold earrings, or eye-catching belt, can quickly turn heads in a room full of people.
- Remember the importance of balance. Let’s say your statement piece is a large chunky necklace – make sure you pair it with simpler earrings and avoid over-sized rings. Even better, instead of going flashy, try adding two delicate bracelets.
- Don’t forget about your shoes and handbag. Although these are not jewelry, a well-balanced combination of geometric shapes and colors can provide a certain symmetry to your outfit.
When accessorizing, the smallest details can make a big difference. It’s always a good idea to take an extra minute after dressed and ask yourself, “Do I have enough, or should I take this off?” The answer to this question can be the difference between an amazing outfit and a tacky one. Now go forth and make the right choices!
4. Don’t Be Afraid to Go Bold: How to Embrace Patterns and Textures
Part of the fun of decorating is being daring. Sure, you can stay with safe neutral palettes and basic solids, but why not be adventurous from time to time? Introducing patterns and textures into your home’s interior is a great way to give it a unique personalized look. Here’s how to do it:
- Choose the right type of pattern. Before you add patterns to your home, decide on the type of look you want. Are you going for a fun eclectic pattern, or something more contemporary? Floral prints, bold geometric shapes, damask designs, and stripes are all classic examples of pattern options.
- Start small. When you’re starting out, it’s best to add a pattern to an accessory or small piece of furniture. Doing this is great for dipping your toes into the world of patterns before going all in.
- Layer on different textures. Making sure you use a variety of different textures can amp up the impact of your patterns. For example, if you have a patterned rug, consider adding some solid pillows or throws in rayon or velvet.
- Be mindful of your color palette. As exciting as it can be to go wild with patterns and textures, it’s also important to stick to a limited color palette. That way everything will still look pulled together in a cohesive style.
By committing to using patterns and textures in your home, you can give it a more stylish and interesting look. But most importantly, it will be a space that truly reflects your unique personality.
5. Finishing Touches: Making Sure Your Color Coordination Stays on Point
One of the most underrated aspects of color coordination is making sure the color balance is consistent. This means that similar colors should be evenly distributed throughout the home while other pops of color should be used sparingly. To make sure you’re staying on track, complete a rushed cleaning of the home and get an outsiders perspective.
- Scan the walls: Color matching is easier on the eye when similar colors appear on the same plane. Go around the home and see which walls need a little extra love.
- Take a break:When you take a break from the color matching, you can return with a nuanced eye. After taking a break, then return and analyze how the colors look and make sure you don’t have any ‘black holes’ of colorless walls.
- Don’t be afraid of white: White paint is not the enemy! In some cases, white walls provide making for an airy feel.
When you have someone else eye it, it can help bring another perspective to the creative process, and it can catch any incredible detail you missed. Don’t be afraid to ask for help on your color journey! Reviewing the spaces with a second pair of eyes can tell you a lot about color balance.
To keep color coordination at its highest, the importance of making sure to quantize each space and view it as a collective and then a sum-of its parts. Listen to how you respond to each color and layer them the right way.
Color coordination isn’t just about matching each item in your outfit. It’s about understanding the basics and mastering the art of accessorizing, to truly make each outfit you craft truly standout. With a conscious effort to apply the tips outlined in this article, you’re well on your way to creating colorful, harmonious outfits that turn heads!
