Combining purple and orange in an outfit can seem daring at first, but it’s a look that certainly can work. With the right shades and styling, purple and orange can make for a bold, eye-catching color combination. As complementary colors on the color wheel, purple and orange have enough contrast to stand out, while still maintaining a sense of visual balance. By following some key guidelines, you can successfully wear these colors together and pull off the vibrant pairing.
Consider the shade
One of the most important factors in making purple and orange work is choosing the right shades. Too pale or muted and the colors may end up clashing, while overly bright, saturated tones can be jarring. Instead, aim for shades with enough pigment to be vivid, but not neon bright. For purple, mid-tones like eggplant, lilac and orchid typically pair best with orange. For orange, ginger, peach and coral shades tend to complement purples nicely. Stay away from pale or pastel versions of either color, as they likely won’t have enough contrast.
Balance is key
When pairing bold colors like purple and orange, balance is essential in keeping the look pulled together. If you wear the two colors in somewhat equal proportions, it helps the eye perceive them as complementary. For example, choosing an orange top and purple pants essentially divides the color pairing evenly. Alternately, you can wear one color more dominantly and use the second shade as an accent. A purple dress with orange jewelry is a balanced approach. Just avoid wearing one bright color on top and one on the bottom, which tends to look mismatched.
Use neutrals
Neutrals like black, white, gray and tan can help bridge the gap between bright colors. Adding neutral pieces to your purple and orange outfit makes the combo feel more cohesive. A neutral blazer over an orange dress and purple heels pulls the look together. White jeans with a purple top and orange handbag also maintains balance. Limit brights to two statement pieces and fill in the rest of your outfit with neutrals. Just don’t overdo the neutrals or the bright colors will get drowned out.
Consider textures and patterns
Varied textures and patterns add visual interest that makes bright color combos feel purposefully put together. Pairing purple and orange pieces with complementary or contrasting textures prevents the look from feeling flat and one-note. For example, an orange sweater with a purple floral skirt has more depth than two solid bright pieces. Combining large and small patterns also brings cohesion to purple and orange. An orange graphic tee, purple paisley scarf and neutral textured overcoat work well together.
Accessorize with care
Accessories like jewelry, shoes and bags let you add smaller pops of purple or orange to tie a look together. But take care not to overload on too many bright accessories, which can feel chaotic. Pick one or two eye-catching orange or purple statement pieces, like a necklace and a handbag. Then use neutral shoes, subtle jewelry and other minimal accessories to balance out multiple bright colors. The key is editing down to key accent pieces that enhance, rather than overwhelm, the color pairing.
Makeup matters
Your makeup choices can influence how cohesively purple and orange come together in an outfit. Warm orange eyeshadow, blush or lipstick helps tie in orange clothing. Cool toned purple makeup pairs well with purple apparel. For the most color continuity, choose makeup in one of the two colors you’re wearing. If you have both purple and orange pieces, opt for neutral makeup to avoid looking over the top. The exception is using a small pop of purple or orange liner or lipstick to tie the rest of your look together.
Examples of purple and orange together
The following are some examples of how to successfully style purple and orange:
Casual looks
– Orange t-shirt with purple jeans or leggings
– Purple skirt with an orange jacket
– Tan sweater layered over an orange dress and purple tights
– White button down with orange shorts and purple sneakers
Office outfits
– Sheath dress in purple with an orange blazer or cardigan
– Gray pantsuit with orange blouse and purple heels
– Purple skirt with orange sweater and neutral pumps
– Orange shift dress with purple scarf and tan trench coat
Formal wear
– Orange cocktail dress with purple clutch and wrap
– Purple evening gown with orange shawl
– Gray suit with purple tie and orange pocket square
– Orange suit with purple dress shirt
Accessories
– Orange handbag with purple jewelry
– Purple hat with orange scarf
– Orange pumps with purple hosiery
– Purple belt with orange bag
Tips for wearing purple and orange
– Look for orange and purple shades with similar saturation levels. A neon orange with a pale purple risks clashing.
– Add a neutral base in shades like black, white, tan or gray to anchor the bright colors.
– Balance the colors evenly by wearing one on top and one on the bottom. An orange skirt with a purple top divides the colors well.
– Complementary textures like lace and leather can make the color pairing feel more sophisticated.
– Start with two bright statement pieces and fill in with neutral accessories. Too many brights can feel overwhelming.
– Use makeup strategically, choosing purple or orange shades that coordinate with your outfit colors.
Conclusion
While purple and orange may seem like an unexpected color combination at first glance, they can be styled together in many fashionable ways. The keys are choosing the right shades, balancing the colors proportionately, incorporating neutrals and textures, and accessorizing thoughtfully. With these guidelines, you can feel confident wearing purple and orange together for a bold, creative look that turns heads. From chic work outfits to striking night-out styles, don’t be afraid to experiment with this vivid, complementary color pairing.
