The combination of black and blue is a classic color scheme that has been popular for decades. Black is a versatile neutral that can be paired with almost any color, while blue is a calming yet vibrant hue. Together, these two colors create an eye-catching yet sophisticated look. However, some people wonder if it’s fashionable or appropriate to wear black and blue at the same time. Let’s explore some tips and guidelines around mixing these two colors successfully.
Complementary Colors
Black and blue are considered complementary colors on the color wheel, which means they are directly opposite each other. When complementary colors are combined, they create a striking visual contrast that grabs people’s attention. The richness of the dark black balances beautifully with the vibrancy of various shades of blue. This contrast is pleasing to the eye. For this reason, the color combination of black and blue has enduring appeal in fashion.
Tonal Variations
An easy way to wear black and blue together is to choose tonal shades of each color. For example, pairing a darker navy blue with black creates a monochromatic, sophisticated look. Or you could try medium blue with charcoal gray. Experiment with different shades like cobalt, sapphire, ink or slate to find a black and blue color scheme you like. Tonal color schemes are harmonious and subtle.
Bold Contrast
For a bolder, more vibrant look, put a bright shade of blue against solid black. Electric blue, royal blue or turquoise blue pops dramatically against a black backdrop. This eye-catching color scheme is dynamic and energetic. However, take care that the contrast is not so strong that it becomes jarring or harsh. Bright blue hues complement median blue nicely as well.
Formal Settings
In formal settings like the office, job interviews or evening events, it’s generally best to wear black and blue together in a more subtle, tonal way. A navy blue suit paired with a black shirt or blouse has a timeless, elegant style. For women, a bold sapphire or cobalt blue dress with black pumps and accessories has a glamorous, sophisticated vibe.
Casual Settings
For casual daytime activities, feel free to experiment more with mixing patterns and textures in black and blue. Try pairing a black t-shirt with medium blue jeans, along with blue sneakers. Or wear a black skirt with a blue blazer or cardigan. Distressed black denim looks great with a royal blue jacket. As athleisure wear surges in popularity, black leggings or joggers with a bright blue sweatshirt is a comfortable, relaxed look.
Accessories
Jewelry, handbags and other accessories provide great ways to incorporate pops of blue into a black outfit. A blue pendant necklace, watch strap or cocktail ring immediately stands out against an all-black ensemble. Blue earrings offer another nice accent. Blue shoes, eyeglasses or a statement blue handbag further complement a black outfit.
Mix and Match
When combining black and blue apparel, aim for balance. If your top is black, pair it with blue jeans or trousers. If your blue blouse or dress is the focal point, ground the look with black footwear or belt. Mix patterns such as blue floral with black stripes or solids for visual interest. Avoid pairing a black top with black pants or skirt, as this may look too somber and heavy.
Skin Tone Considerations
The black and blue color combination tends to look great on people with neutral skin tones. Those with warm, olive complexions should opt for shades of blue with a touch of green or emerald undertones. People with cool pinkish undertones will dazzle in rich royal, navy and sapphire blue against black. Very pale and very dark skin often looks stunning in vibrant, saturated shades of blue.
Hair Color
Your natural hair color can influence which shades of blue flatter you most. Brunettes with darker hair can pull off deeper, inkier blues alongside black nicely. Blondes and redheads should choose light to medium blue hues like periwinkle, powder blue or Columbia blue. Blue eyed blondes with black eyeliner and blue dresses or tops will really make their eye color pop.
Makeup
When wearing black and blue, tailor your makeup colors to seamlessly coordinate. Neutral beige, taupe and brown eyeshadows balance well with both colors. Add definition with black eyeliner and mascara. For your lips, opt for nudes, mauves, plums, berries and red hues rather than bold blue lipstick, which may compete. Blue iridescent highlighter subtly accentuates your best features.
Key Takeaways
Here are some key tips for wearing black and blue successfully:
- Choose tonal shades for a subtle, elegant look
- Create bold contrast with bright blue against true black
- Incorporate blue accessories into black outfits
- Aim for balance of the two colors in your outfit
- Pick shades that flatter your skin tone
- Coordinate blue hues with your natural hair color
- Use makeup to seamlessly tie the colors together
Do’s and Don’ts
When mixing black and blue pieces, keep these do’s and don’ts in mind:
DO:
- Do pair dark navy and black for formal settings
- Do add bright blue shoes or bag to a black outfit
- Do mix medium blue jeans with a black leather jacket
- Do combine blue dress or blouse with black pumps
- Do mix tonal blue and black patterns and prints
DON’T:
- Don’t wear true navy and black together
- Don’t pair light pastel blue with solid black
- Don’t wear black trousers with a black top
- Don’t mix too many shades of blue with black
- Don’t wear bright blue lipstick with this color scheme
Conclusion
Black and blue is a versatile color combination that allows for lots of creativity. Follow the guidelines above to pull off this classic pairing successfully. Tonal shades work well for formal settings, while bright pops of blue liven up black clothing. Accessories like jewelry, bags and shoes enable you to add flair to any black and blue outfit. Have fun mixing patterns and textures. Most importantly, choose shades that enhance your skin tone, hair color and eye hue. Black and blue is a timeless color scheme if executed tastefully.
| Color | Tone | Shades |
|---|---|---|
| Black | Dark, neutral | Jet black, charcoal, ebony |
| Blue | Vibrant, cool | Navy, cobalt, sapphire, turquoise |
