When it comes to adding color to your outfit rotations, it can be a little scary if you feel safe in your classic, neutral zone. Although neutrals certainly have an important place in our timeless capsule wardrobes, there’s also a lot to be said about color and how it can add personality and depth to your favorite looks. If you’re unsure where to start on your color journey, keep reading for 15 outfits color combinations that will always look chic.
1. Black and White
sweater | jeans | flats | bag | sunglasses
The first color combination on our list is one of the most classic color schemes you can use to inspire your outfits. In a sea of endless color combination possibilities, black and white will never fail to give you a classy, timeless look. When in doubt, this color combo will always serve you well.
Although black and white can serve as great inspiration for formal events, it can just as easily be dressed for a chic yet casual look. First, start with a pair of white jeans. Next, add a black sweater. You can always layer it over a white tee for additional contrast.
Then, accessorize with a monochromatic color scheme. Think a pair of black flats, sunglasses, and a leather work tote. The result is an effortlessly elevated look for casual Friday or your weekend plans.
2. Burgundy and Black
coat | tights | shoes | turtleneck | skirt | bag
Moody color combos are perfect for cold weather looks. Black and burgundy fit the bill perfectly when it comes to winter dressing. Although there’s not much contrast in this pairing, the cohesive color palette will give you an elegant, nearly tonal look for sleek winter outfits.
First, start with your burgundy tones. Burgundy is the perfectly deep shade of red to evoke notes of red wine, dark cherries, and sophistication. Saturated jewel tones are perfect for winter as they offer contrast to blue-toned mornings and bright snowfall. Start this look with a tonal base – think burgundy tights, flats, and a turtleneck.
Then, layer add a few pieces in black. A classic mini skirt and cozy toggle coat are perfect. Finish the look with a black leather bag.
3. Light Pink and Burgundy
skirt | shoes | sweater | bag | earrings
If you want to create a romantic, feminine look, try these two complementary colors. Soft pink and burgundy are complementary because of their tonal differences – the soft color of pink and the richness of the burgundy pair well together for a beautiful look in the transitional seasons.
Transition your look from winter to spring by pairing a burgundy slip skirt with a light pink sweater. The pink offers a bright pop that’s perfect for warmer weather, while the pieces themselves will keep you warm in the remainder of winter.
Accessorize with a woven burgundy bag, flats, and a pair of light pink pearl earrings for a classic, elegant touch.
4. Blue and Brown
button-down | shorts | sandals | bag | belt | sunglasses
Dark brown and blue is another great combination for transitional weather. There are so many shades of brown to choose from, but a darker, cooler shade is perfect for fall and spring. When paired with a brighter shade of blue, these two cool tones work for a harmonious look.
Start your outfit with one base color – for this look, we’re using denim shorts and a striped button-down shirt in blue. Next, add your second color. Woven sandals, a shoulder bag, a dark brown belt, and tortoiseshell sunglasses add pattern and texture to your look for interest. This is the perfect cool girl look to run errands in this spring.
5. Blue and Yellow
sweater | jeans | shoes | bag | neck scarf
When you’re craving warmer weather and sunshine, lean into light yellow looks! This shade of butter yellow will be huge this season, and it’s a fun, feminine color that will brighten up any look. When paired with light blue, you have the perfect recipe for a sunshine-filled weekend outfit idea.
Start your spring look in a classic pair of light-wash jeans. Then, use the sandwich method and pair bright yellow Mary Jane flats with a cozy yellow sweater. Finally, add in blue accessories. Use a French girl favorite, the neck scarf, and a woven tote bag to introduce two new textures to your look.
6. Red and Black
cardigan | socks | shoes | skirt | bag
If you’re going for a bold, confident look, black and red is your go-to color combination. This dramatic color palette contrasts a vibrant shade of red with a grounded shade of black. It will instantly make you stand out as a powerhouse, in the best way.
Start with a red cardigan for a classic look. Then, add a black mini skirt. Accessorize with classic black loafers, red socks, and a black shoulder bag. These timeless pieces can help to soften the contrast of bright combinations. Finally, consider introducing a pattern to your look – leopard prints will pair especially well with red and black.
7. Red and Navy
button-down | sweater | pants | sandals | tote
This next color combination will complement every skin tone, and shines year round. Red and navy blue evoke a sense of nostalgia, and classic East Coast style. Although it looks great all year long, I believe that this pairing is one of the best color combinations for warm weather looks. If you’re headed to the beach or maybe just enjoying a patio lunch, try this color combo for old money vibes.
Create a layered look for spring by pairing a red and white striped button-down underneath a red cotton sweater. Then, add a pair of breezy linen pants in navy. Keep your accessories simple – a pair of leather sandals and a boat tote are all you need. Now, you’re ready to enjoy an outdoor picnic or a stroll along the boardwalk.
8. Cream and Brown
sweater tee | pants | coat | bag | loafers | belt | sunglasses
Here’s another color combination that you can style year round for timeless looks. Cream and brown are ideal if you love a neutral tone. If you have a capsule wardrobe, this pairing will be a snap to put together. Plus, these warm tones will instantly make you look elevated and more expensive.
Style a look for the office by starting with a tonal foundation. Think a short-sleeved sweater tee with flattering trouser pants. Next, add in your rich shades of chocolate brown. This will add depth to your monochromatic base. Leather loafers, a suede work bag, and a wool topcoat work perfectly to complete the office-ready ensemble.
9. Green and Beige
dress | coat | shoes | tote bag | sunglasses
This next combo is the perfect look for an organic, harmonious pairing. Green and beige are both colors perfect for spring looks when the world is just waking up again. These natural colors can give you a grounded, soft look for your next work or weekend outfit.
First, start with a midi dress. It’s the perfect base on those days when you aren’t looking for anything too fussy. Next, add on a trench coat to elevate the dress. Then, accessorize with a leather tote bag, flats, and cream sunglasses to complete the easy outfit idea.
10. Camel and Black
dress | blazer | tights | shoes | watch
If you’re going for a neutral, yet powerful look for the office, try beige and black. These two staple neutral colors will be easy to pull out from your capsule wardrobe, and instantly make you look more professional.
First, start with a little black dress. You can’t go wrong with this staple piece from Everlane – it’s ideal for layering under or over. Then, add a pair of sheer tights for extra coverage if you’re headed into the office. On top, add a khaki blazer for contrast. Then, accessorize with slingback heels and a black leather watch for a sleek look to rock your next presentation.
11. Navy and White
sweater | pants | sandals | tote bag
Nautical looks are trending this year, and if you’re inspired by nostalgic, East Coast-inspired fashion, pairing white and navy is a great way to get the aesthetic. Different shades of blue call to mind the depths of the ocean, while bright white is often associated with the clean, airy vibes of coastal settings.
Start your spring look with a dark blue and white shirt or sweater. Next, add a pair of crisp linen pants in white on bottom for a breezy, comfortable outfit pairing. Then, add a pair of navy sandals and a timeless boat tote to hold your essentials for a day at the beach.
12. Blue and Tan
shirt | jeans | jacket | boots | belt | bag
Western looks are having a revival moment this year, both on the runway and off. And while it might be a popular trend at the moment in the fashion world, these outfits are often put together with classic staple pieces that you might already own. Two of the most popular colors featured in Western wear? Navy (or denim) and tan.
Texture is key to leaning into the Western aesthetic. Denim and suede are two of the most popular ones to utilize, although embroidered pieces and lace can also add a feminine touch to your look.
For the sake of this spring outfit, start with a blue shirt – a denim button-down is perfect. Next, a pair of blue jeans for a tonal base. Then, introduce a new texture with a suede jacket and a suede pair of boots. Finally, leather accents with a belt and shoulder bag complete the look.
13. Gray and Navy
pants | sweater | shoes | bag | watch
Neutral shades don’t have to be boring! Choose a light and dark pairing to create a striking contrast in order to add interest to your look. Light gray and navy are a great example of how to do this.
First, start with your lighter shade. A light gray cardigan and silver accessories begin this work-ready look. Then, add your darker neutral. Navy trousers, a leather tote bag, and classic flats are perfect. Voila, you have a staple outfit formula to save for your business casual outfit rotation.
14. Navy and White
sweater | t-shirt | jeans | flats | bag
If you’re worried about breaking some sort of “style code” by pairing blue and black together – don’t be! I’m here to reassure you that these two colors pair beautifully together. The trick is that there’s some sort of distinction between the shades. Or, if you do pair closer shades like navy and black, add in a third color for dimension – like a pop of white with a t-shirt layered under your sweater, adding a brown belt, etc.
Go for a casual, street style look with this year-round outfit idea. Pair classic blue jeans with a black sweater, layered over a white tee. Then, add a pair of slingback flats and a shoulder bag to complete the outfit.
15. Yellow and White
vest top | shorts | sandals | bucket tote | earrings
Are you craving bright spring shades as the weather warms up? I hear you! Play around with pairing white alongside a pop of warm colors for a playful spring or summer outfit. Butter yellow is a great choice for feminine looks!
Save this look for the next time you head to lunch with friends. First, start with your bright yellow in a vest top. This is the perfect elevated version of a classic tank top. Then, add a pair of white shorts – they’ll complement your summertime glow! Finally, add texture with your accessories – white leather sandals, pearl earrings, and a woven basket tote.
Show Your True Colors
Just because you have and use a capsule wardrobe doesn’t mean you can’t play around with new color combinations! If you’re feeling a little bored with your current looks, experimenting with new color combos is one of the fastest ways to get out of a rut. And when the season changes, a whole new palette of possibilities opens up! Don’t be afraid to get out of your comfort zone when it comes to colors – you might just fall in love!
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Carolyn: What a great idea!
You make me rethink my color combination. I will have to get out of my comfort zone and try Burgundy and black, as well as Burgundy and light pink. Also Blue and yellow, green and beige and finally yellow and white.
I’m already convinced for the other combinations.
Suggestion: If you ever decide to start monthly capsule wardrobes, I would be really interested to be a member. I’m already receiving Outfit formulas but more often then not, there are outfits not corresponding to my taste or preferred styles … So, if you ever decide to step in that “arena”, I’m ready.
Thanks for the kind words, Denise! I’ll definitely keep that in mind. Thanks for the idea. Also, I’m happy to hear you have been inspired with your wardrobe today!
I did burgundy and light pink yesterday – looks fabulous!
Love to hear that!
Beautiful combinations of colors and good outfit examples! Thank you!
So glad you like it, Karlee!
if burgundy and light pink work together, would navy and powder blue be good too? Same concept
Two variations of the same color can work!
Amazing colr combinations. Love it!
Amazing color combinations. Love it!
So glad you like these!