Outfit coordination can seem daunting, especially when mixing bold colors like purple and green. However, with some basic color theory knowledge, these two shades can be blended beautifully. In this article, we’ll explore if and how purple and green can be matched in an outfit.
The Color Wheel
First, it helps to understand the color wheel. The color wheel displays colors in relation to each other. Colors that are opposite each other on the wheel are called complementary colors. Purple and green are complementary colors, meaning they are directly across from each other. Complementary color combinations create high contrast, which draws the eye. This contrast is dynamic and eye-catching.
Complementary colors also balance each other out. Purple is a cool, receding color, while green is warm and advancing. When paired, these opposites attract and create visual interest. The contrast makes both colors stand out more.
So in terms of color theory, purple and green are ideal for pairing. Complementary colors naturally look pleasing together. Their high contrast allows each shade to shine.
Color Temperature
When matching any colors, it helps to consider their temperature. Purple and green each come in warm and cool variations. Pairing tones of similar temperature will create a more cohesive look.
For example, pair a jewel toned, cooler purple with a forest or emerald green. Or match a warm, reddish purple with a lively lime green. Staying within similar color temperatures keeps the outfit from looking disjointed.
You can also deliberately mix color temperatures to make one color stand out. A warm purple top with cool green pants puts focus on the vibrant purple. Just be sure the rest of the outfit directs the eye to the statement color.
Color Saturation
The saturation level of purple and green is another factor in coordinating them. Saturation refers to the intensity of a color. Both purple and green come in vivid brights as well as muted tones.
Matching saturation levels creates balance in an outfit. A bold magenta purple calls for an equally strong kelly green. Soft pastel purple and sage green also complement each other.
Mixing saturations can work but take more finesse. Pairing a vivid purple with a muted green risks the purple overwhelming the softer green shade. But it can be done by using only a pop of bright purple against lots of green.
In general, blending saturation levels creates a more harmonious look than wildly different intensities.
Using Neutrals
Neutrals like black, white, gray, tan and navy are great for toning down bright color pairings. They give the eye a break from the high contrast.
Try pairing a neutral top with purple and green bottoms. Or add neutral shoes and a bag to an outfit with a purple top and green skirt. The neutrals still allow the colors to pop but prevent them from clashing.
You can also place neutrals between the two colors. For example, wear purple pants, a white belt, and a green top. This visually separates the colors while still combining them.
Neutrals add balance and flexibility to any colorful combination. They let you comfortably wear even the boldest shades together.
Color Placement
Where you place purple and green on the body impacts their coordination. In general, pair small pops of one color with larger areas of the other. For example, style green pants with a purple blouse. Or wear a green dress with purple heels.
Placing the colors far apart also helps, like purple shoes with a green top. Next to each other, like a purple skirt and green shirt, theymust be well matched in temperature and saturation.
Similarly, limit brightly colored accessories to one or two items. For example, carry a purple bag with green shoes, or add a purple necklace to a green outfit. Too many loud accessories compete for attention.
Strategic color placement reduces the risk of clashing. Spread purple and green out, and the combination will harmoniously enhance your look.
Choosing Flattering Shades
When coordinating any outfit, consider your skin tone. Choose shades that will flatter you. Purple ranges from cool to warm tones. Determine if you suit jewel tones like amethyst or warmer jam shades.
Greens also vary. Cooler sage and emerald complement fair skin, while warmer olives and chartreuses flatter darker complexions. Staying in a flattering color family will keep your outfit from washing you out or clashing.
Of course, personal preference factors hugely. You may adore how a vibrant purple pops against your skin, even if it’s not theoretically ideal. The most flattering shades are ones you feel confident and comfortable in.
While flattering each unique complexion, purple and green can look beautiful together. Don’t be afraid to get creative and express yourself with bold complementary colors.
Prints and Patterns
When mixing prints and patterns, including purple and green together requires even more care. Start with small doses of each print, like a purple floral skirt with a green striped top. Make sure the patterns differ in scale and shape.
Pairing large plaid purple with big checkered green is jarring. But mixed scales and shapes allows the prints to complement rather than compete.
Solid tops or bottoms can anchor busy prints. For example, bold purple paisley pants are more balanced with a solid green shirt. Neutrals like white are also great print anchors.
If combining two prints, make sure one clearly dominates. The secondary print only needs subtle representation through a small pattern or piping detail.
Prints in the same color families, like purple florals and green leaves, can pair more easily. Their connected palette creates unity.
With thoughtful coordination, purple and green prints can be strikingly paired for an eclectic, creative look.
| Purple Shade | Green Pairings |
|---|---|
| Cool jewel tones like amethyst | Emerald, forest green |
| Warm magenta purple | Chartreuse, lime green |
| Light pastel purple | Seafoam, sage green |
| Medium purple | Teal, olive green |
| Dark purple | Hunter, pine green |
Creating Cohesion
Once you’ve paired purple and green through cut, style and print, tie the look together with cohesive elements. Add accessories like a belt, scarf or bag that incorporates both colors.
Styling your hair in one color and doing makeup in the other also unifies the outfit. Wear purple eye makeup with a green dress, for example.
Using metallics like silver and gold jewelry also helps bridge the gap between contrasting colors. The neutral sheen tones down the pairing.
Cohesive outfit layers create continuity. Play with purple tights under a green dress, or vice versa. Layer green over purple for a fashion-forward look.
With thoughtful coordination, purple and green can complement each other beautifully. Follow these guidelines, but most importantly, have fun with color mixing!
Conclusion
Purple and green can make for eye-catching yet balanced outfits. Keep these tips in mind when combining the complementary colors:
- Match tones of similar temperature and saturation
- Use neutrals to tone down high contrast
- Strategically place colors far apart on the body
- Choose shades that flatter your complexion
- Carefully mix prints in small doses
- Add unifying accessories and makeup
With an understanding of color theory, purple and green can be blended beautifully together. Embrace these bold complementary shades to make a vibrant style statement.
