The Basics- How to Match Colors:

Primary colors

Red, blue and yellow are known as primary colors. All other colors are a combination of these three colors. Primary colors can do wonders for a monochromatic look, meaning style dress in one color. This idea seems simple, but when executed properly, is modern and chic. Using a color elongates and streamlines the body.

If the monochromatic look is not your thing and you want to be a little more daring, you can also mix the primary colors in a suit for a mod look, as seen below:

Top – Old Navy, Jeans – Macy’s, Shoes – Heels.com, Earrings – Coach, Bracelet – Macy’s, Handbag –Dorothy Perkins

Complementary colors

Finding complementary colors is simple: pick any color on the color wheel (for diversity, try a secondary or tertiary color, ie any color other than red, yellow or blue) and draw with your finger on the circle directly to the opposite side of the wheel. What you will find is that the colors directly online and it seems that oppose each other. Some couples are complementary: orange / blue, purple / yellow, turquoise / brown.

                         

               

Analogous Colors

Analogous colors are even easier to find on the wheel than complementary colors. Just pick any one color on the wheel, then choose the color to the right or the left of the original — you have found your palette. Hues that are similar to one another on the color wheel create a harmonious and cohesive look. Below, I created an outfit using red and pink – which many say don’t go together, but can actually be combined for a fabulously unexpected look.

Accent Color

So you’ve mastered the color wheel. You know how to pair a killer lemon heel with a navy romper. Sometimes, though, situations require more subdued and conservative looks. For example, as much as you would love to wear your summery brights year round, your boss isn’t exactly a fan of the color wheel (boo).

When you have to tone down the rainbow, try adding just a pop of color to your ensemble. Keep a neutral palette by using black, navy, or cream, and add just a hint of color in the right place. Fashion is all about self-expression and versatility.