As a fashion stylist, one of the most common questions I get is “What are the best colors that go with everything in my wardrobe?” Choosing versatile colors that pair well with multiple outfits can simplify getting dressed, ensuring you always look polished. In this article, we’ll explore the most versatile color options to build a cohesive closet.
Neutrals
Neutral colors are staples in most closets because they effortlessly match with other hues. They act as a blank canvas you can dress up or down with pops of color. Here are some of the top neutral shades to consider:
- Black – This classic neutral works with everything from denim to dresses. It’s elegant for evening and edgy for day.
- White – Crisp, clean white refreshes any look. It pops against dark colors and gray hues.
- Beige – From camel to tan, beige tones complement most complexions. They’re rich neutrals that add subtle depth.
- Gray – Cooler than beige, gray nicely balances warm or cool tones. Charcoal to heather gray work year-round.
- Navy – Darker than classic blue, navy has a neutral, almost black effect. It’s versatile enough for casual and formal wear.
Keep your neutrals streamlined to 2-3 shades in each color family. Build a collection of neutral basics like button-downs, sweaters, tees, and accessories to mix and match.
Earth Tones
Drawn from nature, earth tones are subdued, natural shades that effortlessly pair together. Here are some earth tones that work with mostcomplexions and wardrobes:
- Khaki – This light tan is a modern neutral that works for casual and business looks.
- Olive green – More versatile that kelly green, olive green works year-round in tones from light sage to deep hunter green.
- Chocolate brown – Richer than tan, chocolate brown flatters most complexions and gives outfits a luxe feel.
- Burgundy – This deep wine hue provides an alternative to black. It’s especially chic in fall and winter.
- Blush – More neutral than neon pink, this soft flush complements ivory, beige and tan.
Build your earth tone palette with a few versatile pieces in these hues that coordinate well. Try a blush cardigan with an olive top and khaki pants for an easy earth tone outfit.
Pastels
Soft, dreamy pastels instantly evoke spring and summer. These romantic hues effortlessly mix and match. Here are some foolproof pastel shades:
- Mint green – Cooler than neon green, mint green is crisp and refreshing year-round.
- Lavender – Pretty and delicate, lavender flatters fair and olive complexions.
- Butter yellow – Brighter than beige, butter yellow works for casual and formal wear.
- Blush pink – More neutral than fuchsia, blush pink is universally flattering.
- Baby blue – Lighter than navy, baby blue is versatile enough for work and weekends.
Pastels pair beautifully together and with white. For foolproof mixing, limit pastels to one or two hues per outfit. A blush cardigan over a lavender top and jeans makes mixing soft pastels a breeze.
Bright Basics
Vibrant brights instantly liven up any look. For maximum versatility, opt for these fail-safe primary brights:
- True red – This bold, classic red flatters most complexions. It works for daytime and evenings.
- Sapphire blue – Vibrant but versatile, this primary blue complements most eyes and hair colors.
- Grass green – Vivid and energizing, grass green pops against neutrals and pastels.
- Sunshine yellow – Cheerful and fun, this primary yellow works well with denim and white.
- Berry – This passionate purple hue pairs perfectly with neutrals and grays.
Limit outfits to one standout bright against more subdued tones. Brights draw attention, so showcase these hues in statement pieces like jackets, handbags or scarves. A vibrant red bag will pop against a white dress or black pantsuit.
Metallic Accents
Metallic shoes, jewelry and bags instantly dress up casual looks. For maximum versatility, opt for these classic metallic hues:
- Silver – Cooler than gold, silver complements black, gray and blue hues.
- Gold – Warmer than silver, gold pairs well with brown, tan, peach and blush.
- Rose gold – A trendy mix of gold and copper tones to complement pastels and earth tones.
- Bronze – Richer than gold, bronze flatters warmer complexions and brown hues.
Metallics add polish and sheen to any outfit. Limit outfit pairings to one metallic piece, like rose gold sandals with a white dress or silver hoops with a navy jumpsuit. For formal events, metallics add glamour to cocktail attire.
Going Monochromatic
Matching colors from head to toe is a fashion insider’s trick for looking instantly pulled together. Monochromatic dressing is easy with versatile core colors like:
- Camel – Creamy, warm tan works monochromatically year-round.
- Forest green – Richer than olive green, this jewel tone is striking in autumn.
- Royal blue – Deeper than navy, royal blue pops against black and gray.
- Burgundy – This deep wine hue has vintage appeal for dresses and separates.
- Charcoal – Sleek, modern charcoal grey makes a statement in monochromatic looks.
Build monochromatic outfits using different textures, weights and shades of a core color. For example, pair a charcoal sweater with grey trousers and a lightweight scarf. Monochromatic dressing simplifies getting ready for work, formal events and weekends away.
Conclusion
When building a versatile wardrobe, focus on these color essentials that pair with everything:
- Neutrals like black, white, navy, tan, and grey
- Earth tones including olive green, chocolate, and blush
- Soft pastels like mint, lavender, butter yellow and baby blue
- Primary brights such as red, blue, green, yellow and berry
- Metallic accents in silver, gold, rose gold and bronze
Look for these hues when shopping for wardrobe basics like trousers, blazers, button-downs and sweaters. Then accent with pops of color through dresses, handbags, shoes and jewelry. Limiting color pairings to 2-3 hues per outfit keeps things cohesive.
Following these guidelines ensures you look stylish and sophisticated no matter the occasion. Versatile colors prevent outfit planning woes while streamlining your overall wardrobe. Discover the power of pairing complementary, fail-safe hues that work for your personal style.