When putting together an outfit, color coordination is key to achieving a stylish and cohesive look. Two colors that often give people pause are emerald green and burnt orange. On the surface, these bold, contrasting shades seem like a daring combination. However, with the right styling, emerald green and burnt orange can look surprisingly chic. Here’s what you need to know about wearing emerald green with burnt orange.
The Color Theory Behind Emerald Green and Burnt Orange
In color theory, emerald green and burnt orange are considered complementary colors. This means they are opposite each other on the color wheel. Complementary color pairs create strong visual contrast when placed side-by-side. However, this bold clash can be aesthetically pleasing when balanced properly.
Emerald green is a cool-toned shade that sits between blue-green and yellow-green on the color wheel. It has a lush, jewel-like appearance. Burnt orange, on the other hand, is a warm earth tone reminiscent of autumn leaves or embers. The vibrant orange pops against the rich green.
Complementary colors are tricky to wear together without looking mismatched. But when combined strategically, they can make each color appear more vibrant. The eye-catching contrast creates visual interest and energy.
Tips for Wearing Emerald Green with Burnt Orange
Here are some tips to help you successfully pair emerald green with burnt orange:
- Use one color as an accent. Choose emerald green or burnt orange as your main color. Then use the complementary shade sparingly for trims, accessories or prints.
- Layer different shades. Mix dark emerald with rusty orange or pair light minty greens with peach tones to soften the contrast.
- Separate the colors. Wearing emerald green on your top half and burnt orange below (or vice versa) helps the colors look more cohesive.
- Go for monochromatic neutrals. Shades of black, white or gray act as neutral buffers between the two colors.
- Add metallic touches. Gold or silver jewelry and accessories bridge vibrant shades.
- Consider fur or leather. Neutral textures like suede help ground lively color combinations.
- Watch proportions. Balance is key. If wearing an emerald dress, add a burnt orange bag or shoes instead of a top.
Emerald green and burnt orange look best when styled creatively. Don’t wear them in equal proportions or they may clash. Thoughtful styling takes this bold pairing from mismatched to chic.
Outfit Ideas with Emerald Green and Burnt Orange
To give you some inspiration, here are 5 stylish outfit ideas for wearing emerald green with burnt orange:
1. Emerald Dress with Burnt Orange Coat and Boots
For a polished cold-weather look, pair an emerald green dress with a burnt orange wool coat and suede ankle booties. Add gold jewelry to complement both colors.
2. Burnt Orange Top with Emerald Skirt and Sandals
Try wearing a burnt orange blouse with an emerald A-line skirt for a retro vibe. Complete the outfit with brown leather sandals and an emerald handbag.
3. Emerald Shift Dress with Burnt Orange Scarf and Hat
An easy way to test out the color combination is by wearing an emerald shift dress with a burnt orange scarf and floppy hat for fall. Finish it off with neutral booties.
4. Burnt Orange Pants with Emerald Sweater and Sneakers
For a casual weekend look, wear burnt orange skinny pants with an oversized emerald cable knit sweater and white sneakers. Add a metallic bag to tie the outfit together.
5. Emerald Romper with Burnt Orange Kimono and Sandals
Make a bold summer statement by pairing an emerald romper with a burnt orange kimono or duster coat. Complete the look with brown leather sandals and golden hoops.
As you can see, the color combination looks modern and stylish when thoughtfully executed. Don’t be afraid to get creative mixing these complementary tones.
Home Decor Ideas with Emerald Green and Burnt Orange
Beyond fashion, emerald green and burnt orange can make for an eye-catching color scheme in home decor. Here are some ways to tastefully decorate using this vibrant color pairing:
- Paint one wall emerald green or burnt orange as an accent in a neutral room.
- Use burnt orange curtains or emerald green pillows to inject color into a neutral space.
- Incorporate emerald and orange tones through area rugs, throws, vases or other accessories.
- Mix emerald and burnt orange pieces when selecting dishes, glassware and table linens.
- Display burnt orange fresh flowers in emerald green vases.
- Incorporate the color pairing through mosaic tile, wallpaper or textiles.
- Paint exterior house trim or front door emerald green with burnt orange accents.
The colors work best when integrated thoughtfully in decor rather than going overboard. Allow plenty of neutral space between the two tones. Vary shades and textures to create depth and dimension.
Conclusion
Although at first glance emerald green and burnt orange seem like a jarring combination, they can actually pair beautifully. The key is using one color as the focus, and the other as an accent. Clever styling and decor tricks also help these complementary colors work in harmony. So don’t be afraid to experiment with this lively color pairing in your wardrobe and home decor.
