Cobalt blue is a bold, dynamic color that can make a strong fashion statement. However, choosing the right cobalt blue hue for your skin tone is key to looking your best in this eye-catching shade. Cobalt blue flatters and accentuates some complexions while washing out or clashing with others. So which skin tones can pull off cobalt blue clothing and accessories? Read on for tips on finding a flattering cobalt blue for your skin tone.
Warm Skin Tones
Those with warm undertones to their skin – think peach, yellow, or golden – are often most flattered by cobalt blues with a slightly warmer, brighter cast. Pure cobalt can pull too cool on warmer complexions, but cobalt with a hint of royal blue is a stunning match for warm skin.
Look for cobalt blues with subtle red undertones to complement your skin’s golden glow. Cobalt blues brightened with a touch of turquoise or teal will also bring out the warmth in your complexion. Steer clear of icy, purplish-tinged cobalts, which can wash you out.
Here are some specific shades and styles of cobalt blue that are perfect picks for warm skin:
| Cobalt Blue Hue | Description |
|---|---|
| Royal cobalt | Cobalt brightened with a hint of regal purple-blue |
| Sapphire cobalt | Cobalt with red-violet undertones |
| Teal cobalt | Cobalt mixed with lively teal |
| Turquoise cobalt | Cobalt brightened with a splash of turquoise |
Cool Skin Tones
Those with cool pink, red, or bluish undertones to their complexions look gorgeous in pure, intensely saturated cobalt shades. While warm-toned cobalts can underwhelm cool skin, dark jewel-toned cobalts make these complexions glow.
Look for cobalts with a rich royal blue cast or subtle jewel-toned vibrancy. Cobalts with purple, blue, or pinkish undertones are especially flattering. Stay away from warm, muted cobalts, which can accentuate ruddiness in cool skin.
Here are some top cobalt blue hues to try for cool-toned skin:
| Cobalt Blue Hue | Description |
|---|---|
| Royal cobalt | Cobalt with a regal purple-blue cast |
| Electric cobalt | Pure, super-saturated cobalt |
| Sapphire cobalt | Cobalt with jewel-toned red undertones |
| Violet cobalt | Cobalt brightened with jewel-toned purple |
Neutral and Olive Skin Tones
Those with more neutral undertones – neither distinctly warm nor cool – have some wiggle room when choosing a cobalt blue. Pure vivid cobalts tend to suit neutral and olive complexions well.
Look for cobalts ranging from muted royal blues to vivid electric blues. Avoid extremely warm coral-tinged cobalts or icy purplish cobalts, which can overwhelm neutral skin. Cobalt with subtle warm rosy undertones can also be pretty on olive skin.
Here are some top cobalt blue options for neutral and olive complexions:
| Cobalt Blue Hue | Description |
|---|---|
| Pure cobalt | Neutral true cobalt, not too warm or cool |
| Electric cobalt | Super-saturated, vivid cobalt |
| Royal cobalt | Cobalt brightened with a hint of purple |
| Teal cobalt | Cobalt brightened with green-blue teal tones |
Darker Skin Tones
On darker skin tones, vibrant cobalts pop beautifully and make skin glow. But avoid cobalts with brown undertones, which can blend into skin rather than accentuating it.
Look for bright jewel-toned cobalts in royal purple-blue, sapphire, and vivid teal-blue shades. Muted, earthy cobalts are less flattering on dark skin. Steer clear of cobalt with brownish undertones – go for bold blues instead.
Here are some cobalt blue shades that truly shine on darker skin:
| Cobalt Blue Hue | Description |
|---|---|
| Royal cobalt | Cobalt with a jewel-toned purple cast |
| Sapphire cobalt | Cobalt with a vibrant red undertone |
| Teal cobalt | Cobalt punched up with lively teal |
| Violet cobalt | Cobalt brightened with jewel-toned purple |
Cobalt Blue Clothing and Accessories
Once you’ve zeroed in on a flattering shade of cobalt for your skin tone, how do you incorporate it into your wardrobe? From dresses to jeans, cobalt blue makes a bold statement in any garment or accessory. Here are some stylish ways to wear cobalt blue:
Cobalt dresses: A cobalt blue dress is ideal for making an entrance at a party or special event. Choose a fitted sheath, dramatic A-line, or flowing maxi in a cobalt hue perfect for you.
Cobalt tops: For a more casual look, pair a cobalt knit top or blouse with jeans, shorts, or a neutral skirt. Vibrant cobalt shirts brighten up basic outfits.
Cobalt jeans: Skinny jeans, cropped jeans, or bootcut jeans in deep cobalt blue are a trendy alternative to standard blue denim.
Cobalt jackets and coats: Stand out from the crowd in a tailored cobalt blazer, moto jacket, or fashionable overcoat. Cobalt outerwear livens up neutral fall and winter looks.
Cobalt shoes: Pointy-toe flats, sleek heels, or minimalist sneakers in luxurious cobalt shades are easy ways to incorporate more blue into your look.
Cobalt bags: A crossbody bag, tote, or clutch in cobalt leather or suede injects bold color into everyday outfits.
Cobalt jewelry: From statement cobalt rings and earrings to layered cobalt pendants, jewelry is another fun way to try the trend.
Finding Your Perfect Cobalt Blue
The key to picking a winning cobalt blue is honoring your skin’s undertones. Warm-toned gals look best in cobalts with a hint of coral, turquoise, or teal. Cool complexions shine in rich royal and electric cobalts. Neutral and olive skin varies – go for vivid jewel-toned cobalts or softened rosy cobalts. On darker skin, bright teal-tinged and purple-hued cobalts make a stunning statement.
By choosing a cobalt that complements your skin, rather than competes with it, you’ll look and feel amazing in this gorgeous confident shade of blue. So embrace the cobalt blue trend in a hue that flatters your unique complexion.