Tan and army green are two versatile neutral colors that can work well together in fashion and interior design. Combining these earthy tones creates an understated, natural aesthetic. However, it’s important to pay attention to undertones and use coordinating accent colors to keep the look cohesive. In this article, we’ll explore how to successfully pair tan and army green through color theory concepts, fashion and interior design examples, and tips for accessorizing.
The Color Theory Behind Tan and Army Green
On the color wheel, tan is a warm, earthy neutral that falls somewhere between brown and beige. Army green is a cooler-toned neutral that has blue undertones. Typically colors directly across from each other on the color wheel are considered complementary colors. However, tan and army green have enough difference in their undertones that they can work well together without clashing.
Here’s a quick overview of their color traits:
| Color | Hue Family | Undertones |
| Tan | Brown/Orange | Warm, yellow |
| Army Green | Green | Cool, blue |
The warm peach undertones in tan contrast nicely against the cooler blue-green undertones in army green. When used together, the tan takes on a more neutral beige appearance while the army green shifts more forest green.
Combining Tan and Army Green in Fashion
In fashion, tan and army green is an easy color combination to pull off. Tan pants or shorts paired with an army green top is a go-to mix for casual outfits. Khaki tan bottoms help ground the bolder army green shade.
Some ways to incorporate both colors in an outfit:
| – Tan pants + army green t-shirt or blouse |
| – Tan skirt + army green sweater |
| – Tan shorts + army green polo or tank |
| – Tan cropped pants + army green utility jacket |
| – Tan romper or jumpsuit + army green kimono or duster |
Army green outerwear like jackets, coats and kimonos work nicely layered over tan dresses, rompers, and lighter tops. Olive drapey cardigans can create an earthy, boho vibe when paired with neutral tan pieces.
For accessories, bags and shoes in tan help tie the look together. Army green handbags, belts or scarves add nice complementary accents. Jewelry in silver, gold and natural wood tones also coordinate well with both colors.
Incorporating Tan and Army Green in Interior Design
When used thoughtfully, tan and army green can create a relaxed, inviting vibe in home decor. Both colors work well in casual, rustic, farmhouse, industrial, bohemian and eclectic rooms.
Some ways to tastefully include tan and army green throughout a room:
| – Tan walls + army green sofa |
| – Tan couch + army green throw pillows |
| – Tan cushioned chairs + army green patterned rug |
| – Tan curtains + army green table runner |
| – Tan woven baskets + army green vase |
| – Tan cabinets + army green kitchen towels |
When using tan walls or larger furniture pieces, army green makes a great accent color in soft furnishings like pillows, rugs, curtains, table linens and decor items. The reverse is also effective – tan pillows, rugs, baskets etc can complement army green painted walls or furniture.
Choosing Complementary Accent Colors
To keep a tan and army green color scheme looking cohesive and vibrant, it helps to incorporate complementary accent colors and materials.
Some accent colors that work well:
Natural textures and materials like wood, leather, linen, cotton and jute help soften and blend the color palette. Metallics like brass, copper and bronze also pair nicely and add warmth.
Avoid using overly cool tones like icy pastels or bright primary colors as this can make the army green appear too drab. Stick to accent colors with a bit of depth and earthiness to compliment both the tan and green.
Tying It All Together
Some key tips for successfully coordinating tan with army green:
– Use tan as a neutral base and army green as the accent. Or vice versa. Don’t go overboard with both colors equally.
– Pay attention to undertones. Army green looks best with warm tan tones rather than cool stony tans.
– Add accent colors and textures that blend well like cream, brown, terra cotta, wood tones, leather etc.
– Accessorize with metallics like brass, gold and silver jewelry.
– Avoid bright whites, blacks or primary colors as accents. Stick to earthy natural palettes.
– Incorporate army green in small doses – pillows, throws, decor items. Too much green can overwhelm.
Conclusion
Tan and army green work surprisingly well together due to their contrasting warm and cool undertones. Keeping accents natural and neutral allows the colors to complement each other. When used thoughtfully in fashion or interior design, this versatile color combination creates a relaxed, inviting aesthetic.
| – Neutrals like cream, light brown, beige and grey |
| – Earth tones like terra cotta, mustard yellow, rust orange |
| – Sage green, olive green, mossy green |
| – Brick red, maroon, burgundy |
