The combination of red and pink can be a bold fashion choice for men. While some may view these colors as too loud or feminine, when styled properly, red and pink can allow men to stand out with confidence. This article explores whether red and pink truly go together for men, looking at the history of these color pairings, examples of stylish red and pink men’s outfits, and guidelines for wearing these hues successfully.
A Brief History of Red and Pink for Men
While red and pink are now often considered feminine, this was not always the case. In 18th century Europe, pink was viewed as a strong, masculine color, while blue was seen as delicate and feminine. Soldiers wore red coats, and painters would often portray powerful male figures in shades of pink.
This began to shift in the early 20th century. Department stores started marketing pink clothes and nursery items to girls, cementing it as a feminine hue. By the 1940s, pink was strongly associated with women, while red remained a bold, masculine shade.
Despite this gendering of colors, some fashion-forward men continued to incorporate shades of pink and red into their wardrobes. David Bowie famously wore pink suits and accessories in the 1970s, leading the way for male artists to embrace these hues.
Does Red and Pink Work for Men’s Fashion?
When combined tastefully, red and pink can create striking men’s outfits. Here are some tips for successfully integrating these colors:
– Stick to darker pinks and jewel tones. Soft baby pinks may look more feminine. Deep fuchsias, magentas, and raspberry pinks have a bolder edge.
– Pair pink with black, white, or darker shades of red. Lighter shades of pink tend to look more masculine against darker hues.
– Use pink as an accent. A pink tie, pocket square, or sock can add a subtle pop of color to an otherwise neutral outfit.
– Combine red and pink in muted tones. Matching a maroon shirt with a dusty rose sweater, for example, creates a more sophisticated color pairing.
– Add red and pink through patterns. A shirt or jacket with small-scale plaid, check, or floral patterns in reds and pinks can work.
– Stick to one brightly-colored item per outfit. For example, pair a hot pink shirt with neutral trousers and accessories for a balanced look.
Examples of Stylish Red and Pink Outfits for Men
When styled appropriately, red and pink can look sophisticated, stylish, and masculine. Here are some inspiring examples of men’s outfits featuring these colors:
Muted red and pink combination:
– Light pink oxford shirt
– Maroon sweater
– Navy trousers
– Brown leather shoes
This look deftly combines muted shades of red and pink for an understated appearance. The maroon sweater tones down the light pink shirt, while the navy pants anchor the outfit.
Monochromatic pink:
– Fuchsia suit
– Pink dress shirt
– Pink patterned tie
– White pocket square
– White shoes
Wearing different shades of pink together creates a bold, eye-catching ensemble. A print pink tie and white pocket square provide contrast against the solid pink suit and shirt.
Red and pink accents:
– Charcoal suit
– White dress shirt
– Navy tie with red and pink dots
– Red silk pocket square
– Navy overcoat with pink lining
This business look relies on red and pink for small accent details, like the tie’s dots and overcoat’s interior. This subtle incorporation of color is office-appropriate.
Casual red and pink:
– White t-shirt
– Faded red jeans
– Pink bomber jacket
– White sneakers
For a casual outfit, faded red denim and a pink jacket on top of a white tee pairs red and pink in a relaxed way. White sneakers keep the look grounded.
Guidelines for Wearing Red and Pink
Here are some key guidelines to follow when incorporating red and pink into your outfits as a man:
Choose the right reds and pinks: Opt for shades like maroon, burgundy, brick red, magenta, or raspberry pink over bright, flashy tones. Muted and darker reds and pinks tend to appear more masculine.
Use red and pink as accents: Limit yourself to one or two red or pink accessory items, like a tie, pocket square, or socks. This prevents the outfit from looking overly costumey.
Mix with neutrals: Pair red and pink pieces with black, brown, gray, navy, khaki, olive, or white items. The neutral backdrop helps the bold colors pop.
Avoid matching shades: Do not wear the exact same red or pink on both top and bottom. Matching pink pants and a pink shirt risks looking overly feminine.
Mind the details: Focus on traditional menswear details, like a straight fit, button-down collar, tie, and quality fabrics. These details add masculine flair.
Exude confidence: Wear red and pink with self-assurance. Your attitude is key in pulling off unconventional color pairings.
Conclusion
Red and pink may seem like an unorthodox color combination for men at first glance. However, with the right styling, shades, and attitude, men can successfully integrate red and pink into fashionable outfits. From muted maroon and dusty rose combinations to bright statement pieces, red and pink can allow gents to stand out with creativity and confidence. With a nod to history and an eye for style, men can wear red and pink together in a dapper, masculine way.
