Why Color Combinations Matter
The colors men wear have a significant influence on their personal style.
I've mentioned it before, and I'll probably say it many more times:
In this simple guide to better color coordination and style, I'll SHOW and TELL you how to maximize your colorful pieces and provide some inspiration for pairing and wearing your clothes in a stylish and tasteful way.
But first things first...
Understanding the Color Wheel
I've written two complete guides on this topic and even published a video on our YouTube channel explaining how to use the color wheel for clothes.
I won't repeat everything from that guide, but here are some main points.
Primary colors are considered the basis from which all other colors originate. All additional colors that we know of are mixed from primary colors. As a result, we cannot mix any other colors to form the three primary colors; they simply are what they are.
Secondary colors are created by mixing two primary colors. For example, yellow and blue combine to form green. These colors appear between the primary colors on the color wheel.
The colors between the primary and secondary colors on the color wheel are called tertiary colors. These colors are created by mixing a primary color with a secondary color.
For example, when you mix red with purple, you get the tertiary color magenta.
Prioritize Neutral Colors
Neutral colors are hues that look muted and sometimes desaturated. They often include earthy tones such as beige, light brown, brown, cream, olive green, navy blue, charcoal, and similar shades.
Dressing well shouldn't be overly complicated or insanely expensive. By learning to work smarter, any man can "fool-proof" his wardrobe by choosing neutral-colored pieces that pair well with other neutral garments.
The straightforward nature of a neutral-colored collection allows men to accomplish more with less by affording them virtually endless options.
Investing in a neutral-colored wardrobe will enable you to expand your options when pairing various pieces together. Neutral-colored garments can be mixed and matched in numerous ways to create a cohesive look.
Prioritizing a neutral-colored capsule wardrobe is, by far and away, the best way to zero in on the essential pieces of clothing that can cover you for just about any situation you can think of.
With all of that out of the way, here are the best color combinations for clothes that any man can use to great effect all year long.
Olive Green & Blue
Blue and green are analogous colors, meaning they sit NEXT to each other on the color wheel. Of course, these aren't the only analogous colors to choose from, but in my view, they are the most handsome and reliable.
In the case of green, I recommend olive green shirts, jackets, or pants. This is a more natural and masculine shade of green that pairs well with darker, medium, and lighter hues of blue.
Regarding blue, as mentioned, you have many options. For example, navy blue is always a beautiful choice, but lighter shades in denim or linen fabrics tend to look good on a variety of complexions for men.
Simply put, almost any shade of blue can be your "go-to" color, and its combination with green should not be underestimated.
Blue & Brown
Much like blue and green, blue and brown are another attractive and timeless combination, but in many cases, you can do EVEN MORE with these color sets.
For example, light khaki, tan, or beige pieces look great with both dark and light blue items, while darker, more earthy browns are best paired with deeper navy blues.
Whether for spring and summer, fall, or winter, blue and brown are stylish and essential neutral colors that every man can use effectively, especially for a business casual wardrobe.
When in doubt, you can never go wrong with a stylish pair of cream or beige trousers paired with a crisp blue shirt or a classic navy blazer (whether dressy or casual).
Blue & Grey
A blue and grey/silver combo is easy to match with both casual and formal outfits.
The beauty of these neutral colors is that small touches of other shades, like earthy browns and olive greens, will always look good because of the versatility that neutral hues provide.
Whether it's a casual shirt, jacket, and chino pants or a complete semi-formal or business casual outfit for the office, blue and grey are great for pairing all year round.
Green & Brown
On paper, a green and brown combination might sound unappealing, but I'm often surprised by how many stylish outfits (whether formal, semi-formal, or casual) can be created.
The contrast between green and brown outfits is subtle and doesn't stand out as much as some other combinations on this list, but what makes these colors so appealing is that when paired in fabrics that are soft and textured, they can add significant depth and maturity to what might otherwise be a simple outfit.
Red & Green
A fun way to catch attention and enjoy your outfits (especially during the holidays) is to embrace your classic complementary colors, like red and green.
Complementary colors are those that sit directly opposite from one another on the color wheel and therefore offer the highest level of contrast (apart from adding white, but we'll get to that soon enough).
A deep burgundy red works well with darker olive greens, and of course, something lighter, like a ruby red, is also a great option.
Just be sure not to pair these (or any other) contrasting hues together with overly vibrant and bright colors, as this could easily backfire on you.
A gentleman is never overly "loud" or ostentatious in how he dresses. Instead, he dresses appropriately for the occasion while adding subtle style touches through accessories that reflect his personality.
Adding White & Black to Your Outfits
You've likely noticed by now that throughout this guide, I have shown two color combinations that work well; yet, most of these outfits include either black or white pieces.
In the case of white, you often get a very noticeable level of contrast that is definitely eye-catching in many situations.
Just be sure to make tasteful choices when using white.
Wearing white for shirts, pants, and sneakers can be a great way to add extra flair to your outfits, but just don't get carried away.
The same applies to black trousers, shirts, and footwear.
Black and deep charcoal grey are often easier to work with and can be used similarly to white, so have fun and get creative (just don't overthink it).
Monochromatic Style
This simple color palette takes one hue from the wheel and adds tints, shades, and tones to create various options.
I realize this isn't really a "combination," but I would be remiss not to include it as an option for men.
This color palette is popular among guys of all ages because it's easy to use. Of course, blacks and dark greys are the most common, but I recommend trying blue and green monochromatic outfits.
For example, a navy suit, tie, and dress shirt ensemble is an automatic WIN.
Discover the Best Combinations for You
However you choose to wear and pair colors, hopefully you now understand how powerful color coordination can be in shaping your personal style.
The right combination can mean the difference between stylish success and complete failure.
Of course, the best color combinations are the ones that work best for YOU. This means that whatever helps elevate your style and makes you feel confident is, at the end of the day, the best option to choose.
If you want to stay stylish and turn heads, then make good use of your colors in your outfit.
