Does This Match?
Recently, I have been getting so many TikToks on my “For You Page” where girls go and get their “colors done” or “matched” to their skin tone. I think this is a fascinating concept because I have always used variations of color theory when styling. While it’s not the most exciting aspect of fashion, a basic understanding of color theory gives one the foundation to “color match” themselves.
Let me explain…
Color theory is the study of how colors interact with each other and the visual effects they produce when combined. It’s a fundamental concept in art, design, and, in this case, fashion. This idea helps people understand how to use color differently to display various contexts. By understanding and interpreting color theory, you will find different ways to accentuate your personality and physical features while also being able to interpret others’ characteristics based on their colors.
Critical Concepts of Color Theory:
Primary Colors: Blue, red, and yellow are the primary colors that cannot be created by mixing other colors.
Secondary Colors: Green, orange, and purple are formed by mixing two primary colors.
Tertiary Colors: These are created by mixing a primary color with a secondary color, such as red-orange or blue-green.
Complementary Colors: Colors opposite each other on the color wheel (e.g., red and green). They create a high contrast and vibrant look when paired together.
Analogous Colors: Colors next to each other on the color wheel (e.g., blue, blue-green, and green). These combinations are harmonious and pleasing to the eye.
Triadic Colors: These colors are evenly spaced around the color wheel (e.g., red, yellow, and blue). This scheme offers a vibrant yet balanced look.
Split-Complementary Colors: This is a variation of the complementary color scheme in which a base color is paired with two colors adjacent to its complementary color. This creates a contrast but with less tension.
Hue: The name of a color
Saturation: The intensity or purity of a color. High saturation means the color is vivid, while low saturation means the color is more muted.
Value: The lightness or darkness of a color. Adding white creates a tint while adding black creates a shade.
Monochromatic Scheme: This scheme uses variations in lightness and saturation of a single color. It is clean and soothing but can lack contrast.
Complementary Scheme: Uses two opposite colors on the color wheel. This combination is dynamic and offers high contrast.
Analogous Scheme: Uses two opposite colors on the color wheel. This combination is dynamic and offers high contrast.
Triadic Scheme: Uses three evenly spaced colors on the wheel, offering a balanced and vibrant look.
Tetradic (Double Complementary) Scheme: Uses two pairs of complementary colors, providing rich diversity and balance if used carefully.
Warm Colors: Red, orange, and yellow evoke warm energy and excitement.
Cool Colors: Blue, green, and purple evoke calmness, relaxation, and serenity.
6. Psychology of Color:
Emotional Impact: Different colors can evoke different emotions. For example, blue is associated with calmness and trust, while red can evoke passion and urgency.
Cultural Significance: Colors can have different meanings in different cultures. For instance, white is often associated with purity in Western cultures but can signify mourning in some Eastern Cultures.
PHOTO: BHG /Zoe Hansen
Now that we understand the fundamentals, let’s explore the steps to picking an outfit.
Start with a Base Color: Choose one dominant color from your outfit, such as a dress or pants. Whatever you choose, that base is now your primary base color.
Add Complementary Colors: Find the color opposite your base on the color wheel. You can use this color for accessories, shoes, or outerwear to add contrast and make your outfit pop.
Analogous Colors: If you want a more harmonious or subtle look, choose colors next to each other on the color wheel. For example, if your base color is blue, you could pair it with blue-green or blue-purple. This creates a cohesive and soothing appearance.
Triadic Colors: Choose three colors evenly spaced on the color wheel for a balanced, vibrant look. For example, if you have a yellow top, you could pair it with a blue jacket and red shoes.
My personal favorite of the options is the Analogous because I prefer a more monochromatic and subtle look rather than bold colors; however, understanding these principles allows you to play with fashion outside your comfort zone in an educated way.
2. Understanding Saturation and Value
Saturation: If your base color is vivid and highly saturated, balance it with more muted or neutral tones to avoid overwhelming the outfit. For example, a bright red skirt can be paired with a soft beige top.
Value: Consider the lightness or darkness of your outfit. If you’re wearing a dark color, like navy or black, balance it with a lighter element, such as a white blouse or pastel accessories, to create contrast and avoid a heavy look.
3. Warm Colors:
Warm Colors: If you aim for a bold, energetic outfit, use warm colors like red, orange, or yellow. These can be your primary colors or accents like scarves or jewelry.
Cool Colors: For a calm, relaxed vibe, choose cool colors like blue, green, or purple. These colors work well in professional settings or for a more subdued look.
Neutrals as a Base: Neutrals like black, white, gray, beige, and navy are versatile and can be paired with almost any color. Start with a neutral piece, such as black pants, and add pops of color with a bright top or colorful accessories.
Using Neutrals to Tone Down: If your outfit has bold colors, use neutrals to tone it down. For example, if you have a bright blue dress, pair it with black or white to tone it down.
Winter: Use deeper, richer colors like burgundy, forest green, or navy. Pair them with dark neutrals like black and gray.
Spring: Incorporate pastels and lighter colors, like lavender, mint, or blush. Pair these with light neutrals like white or beige.
Summer: Opt for bright, vibrant colors like coral, turquoise, or lemon yellow. Pair them with white or light colors to keep the outfit fresh and airy.
Fall: Choose earthy tones like mustard, olive, and rust. These pair well with brown, camel, or other warm neutrals.
I know that was A LOT of information. Still, suppose you can understand and apply these concepts. In that case, you will find a million more outfits in your closet and even begin to approach shopping differently, making your wardrobe more versatile while expanding and elevating your style.