Combining blue and green clothes can seem challenging at first, but with some basic color theory knowledge it can be easy and fun to create stylish outfits. When paired correctly, blue and green can complement each other beautifully. The key is finding the right tones and balances. In this article, we’ll provide tips on how to successfully mix these cool hues in your wardrobe.
Complementary Colors
On the color wheel, blue and green are considered complementary colors. This means they are directly opposite each other. In color theory, complements create a strong visual contrast when placed side-by-side. This dynamic makes them ideal for pairing together in outfits.
Blue and green complement each other because blue is a primary color and green is a secondary color. Primary colors are pure hues while secondary colors are created by mixing two primary colors. Specifically, green is made by mixing blue with yellow. This relationship causes blue and green to share common qualities while still providing enough contrast.
Color Temperature
When combining any colors, it helps to pay attention to their temperature. Colors can be characterized as warm or cool. Blues and greens are on the cooler end of the spectrum. When mixing cool tones like these,Aim for a balance of lighter and darker shades. If you pair deep jewel tones together, the outfit may end up feeling too heavy or intense. Softening them with some pale blue or minty green creates a more soothing, complementary look.
Monochromatic Look
A monochromatic outfit sticks to different shades of one color family. This technique is an easy, subtle way to mix blue and green. Style different garments in light, medium and dark green. Then layer on blue pieces like a denim jacket, scarf or handbag for accent. The green dominates while the blue provides contrast.
Analogous Colors
Blues and greens are analogous colors, meaning they sit beside each other on the color wheel. Analogous combinations are harmonious and soothing to the eye. Put together different blue and green pieces in the same hue range. For example, pair a teal button-down with emerald pants or a sapphire dress with seafoam shoes. Staying in the same tonal family creates cohesion.
Color Blocking
For a bold, graphic look, try color blocking with blue and green. Color blocking means wearing solid blocks of each color together. For example, choose a vibrant royal blue top and combine it with an acid green skirt. You can also layer a mint cardigan over a cobalt dress. Just be sure the shades have enough contrast so each block stands out.
Neutral Separators
Sometimes analogous colors like blues and greens can blend together instead of contrasting. If your outfit looks too “muddy,” add a neutral color in between for separation. White, black, gray and tan work well for this. A white tee under a turquoise cardigan and olive pants helps distinguish the shades.
Metallic Accents
For a splash of shine, Metallic shoes, jewelry and bags reflect light beautifully against blue and green. Silver and pewter tones complement cooler hues especially well. Try a metallic heel with a seafoam dress or gold bangles with emerald trousers. Just limit metallic accents to one or two accessories so they don’t overpower the main colors.
Patterns and Prints
Patterns like stripes, florals and plaids contain multiple colors, making them a fun way to mix blue and green. Look for prints with both shades featured. An abstract splash of blues and greens on a dress keeps the combination interesting. Scale is also important for coordinating patterns. Pair a large plaid blazer with a small polka dot blouse so the prints don’t compete.
Example Outfit Combinations
Here are a few easy outfit formulas for mixing blue and green in stylish ways:
– Dark wash jeans + mint top + navy blazer
– Emerald shift dress + medium blue heels
– Teal trench coat + leaf green scarf
– Navy sweater dress + kelly green belt
– Royal blue skirt + seafoam blouse
– Bright green trousers + soft chambray button-down
– Turquoise camisole + olive mini skirt
Have fun trying out different shades and combinations until you find what flatters you best. The key is balancing the blue and green so they enhance – not compete – with each other.
Tips for Combining Blue and Green
– Look for tones of blue and green close together on the color wheel for harmonious combinations
– Add lighter and darker shades for contrast and depth
– Separate analogous colors with neutral “bridges” like white, tan or gray
– Use color blocking for bold, graphic impact
– Incorporate metallic shoes, jewelry and bags for shimmer
– Mix and match patterns featuring both colors
– Anchor bright shades with neutral basics like jeans or tees
Blue and Green Color Palettes
Here are some recommended blue and green color palettes to guide your mixing and matching:
Cool Brights
– Aquamarine
– Kelly green
– Royal blue
– Acid green
– Electric blue
Sea and Forest
– Seafoam green
– Pale turquoise
– Moss green
– Denim blue
– Hunter green
Jewel Tones
– Emerald green
– Sapphire blue
– Teal
– Jewel green
– Cobalt blue
Dusk Shades
– Dusty blue
– Sage green
– Steel blue
– Olive green
– Midnight blue
Pastels
– Mint green
– Baby blue
– Light sage
– Sky blue
– Seafoam
General Guidelines
Here are some key tips to keep in mind when combining blues and greens in your outfits:
– Match tones of similar intensity so one doesn’t overpower the other. A bright kelly green will clash next to a pale robin’s egg blue.
– If pairing more saturated shades, add a neutral color between them like white, tan or gray to create separation.
– Make sure the undertones work together. A cool-toned slate blue will look off next to a warm mossy green. Stick to either both cool or both warm tones.
– For color blocking, choose colors with enough contrast for the blocks to stand out. A medium blue and teal may bleed together.
– Add lighter and darker shades of both colors for visual interest. Varying tones makes the combination more dynamic.
– Limit patterns and prints to one statement piece so the look isn’t too busy. Florals, paisleys and abstracts work well.
– Use metallic silver, pewter, gold or bronze accessories for shimmer against the blue and green. Just don’t overdo it.
Conclusion
Blue and green may seem like an unexpected color pair, but with some knowledge of color theory, they can be combined beautifully. Keep tones analogous for harmony, vary light and dark for contrast, and add neutrals or metallics to make the colors pop. The result is a stylish, refreshing blend of two cool colors. With so many shades and varieties to work with, the possibilities for mixing blues and greens are endless!
