In recent years, I’ve become quite strict with the contents of my wardrobe. While it used to house jacquard, tulle, lace and a spectrum of colours, lately it’s become a haven of beige, cream, black and a tight edit of hues such as khaki, red and denim blue.
There are two reasons for this: Firstly, I found my shopping habits were rather frivolous and, instead of investing in timeless additions, I was drowning in statement buys, none of which went together. Secondly, I suffered, what I now see, was a crisis of confidence. Admittedly, as the years have gone on, I’ve been increasingly reluctant to break out of my comfort zone—particularly, with colour.
Which is why I’ve ultimately decided to turn a new leaf by reinstating it into my wares. Finding pieces I love isn’t the trouble, however: it’s knowing out to wear them when I’ve been out of the game for so long. After all, it’s hard to know which colours work together and which ones just don’t until it’s (inevitably) too late, and you’ve already left the house.
The solution? Turn to the experts. From the likes of Alexa Chung and Victoria Beckham to Instagram’s elite, I think I’ve just about managed to track down all the complementary colour outfits going. From the classic pairings you’ll wear day in and day out to the more daring duos to try when you’re feeling particularly fashiony, keep scrolling for all the colour-blocking inspiration you’ll ever need.
Beware of vivid hues that teeter on the side or garish. Instead, look for muted iterations of green and yellow for a sophisticated feel.
Make like Victoria and keep your accessories to a minimum to ensure this colour combination looks expensive.
All-beige outfits were the order of the day at London Fashion Week, but Ada was channelling the vibe long ago.
Part of the reason Holly’s outfits are always so successful is that she knows which colours suit her complexion. Here, the violet hue offsets her blonde hair perfectly, while the teal shade of her skirt makes her skin tone look glowy.
If you like your ensembles bold, orange and red will always serve you well. Offset this with black or neutral accessories to pare-back the vibe.
Related: These 4 Colour Combinations Always Look So Expensive
You know the saying “pink and green should never be seen?” It's time to disregard it.
The contrasting blend of the warmer yellow hue and the cooler dusky-blue shade makes for a directional yet classic combination.
Jenna Coleman knows that tonal dressing is a fast-track to looking chic, and her rust and peach duo is peak cool.
Offset neon hues with a timeless camel separates to avoid looking like a glowstick (unless that’s the desired effect).
Tracee Ellis Ross should be looked up to for many reason—including her subtle pairing of tangerine and navy. 10/10.
No colour combination looks prettier than white and pink, as evidenced by Jessie Bush.
Related: Bored of Beige? Here's How to Incorporate Colour Into Your Wardrobe This Season
Orange and purple shouldn’t work together, but Due Lipa has convinced us otherwise with her oversized pieces.
Burgundy has the power to make any outfit look luxe, though we think it looks its best when worn with a gorgeous turquoise hue.
They may have been the colours of your bedroom growing up, but Lupita proves you should carry baby pink and purple into adulthood, too.
Colours don’t come classier than khaki and beige, so naturally, they go together perfectly, too.
No colour combination is more complimentary thank black and white. Just ask Alexa Chung.
Now, read up on the trends that are set to dominate your wardrobe this summer.
