Wearing red is a great way to add a splash of color to an outfit. But it’s a dominating color that instantly catches your eye, which can make it tough to know what colors go with red clothes.
The problem is further complicated by the fact that red actually encompasses a whole range of shades, from light pastels to dark maroons. And each of these shades works best with a slightly different color palette. For example, light and bright reds go better with other light colors, while dark shades can pair with blacks and charcoal
When wearing red, I typically wear toned-down colors in the rest of my outfit. This means I’ll often wear it with black, gray, beige, or navy. I think this works well because it lets red become the focal point of the outfit.
But, you can wear red with brighter colors. Yellow and red can look together, as can red and blue. The key is finding a look that works for you!
8 Colors that Go Great With Red Clothes
1. Black
Photo:
Christian Vierig/Getty Images
Rag & Bone
Soleil Cardigan
$295
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FP Beach
Vivi Mini
$68
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Tropic of C
Ipanema Pant
$180
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2. PINK
Pink and red is a fashion-girl favorite. Given that they're in the same color family, it's hard to go wrong with any shade of pink.
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Edward Berthelot/Getty Images
Reformation
Overland Linen Top
$98
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Alo
Ribbed Knotty Short Sleeve Tee
$58
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Ganni
Mini Boucle Knit Halter Top
$165
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3. SILVER
When it comes to metallics, silver trumps them all. Its icy hue makes red look even more vibrant.
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Kirstin Sinclair/Getty Images
Reformation
Eva Knotted Sandal
$248
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Vince
Slip Skirt
$265
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Mango
Draped Knit Dress
$100
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4. CAMEL
If you're looking for a neutral alternative to the usual black or white, reach for camel. It looks expensive and is a tad more unexpected.
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Christian Vierig/Getty Images
Mango
Cotton Classic Trench Coat
$130
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H&M
Wide-Leg Twill Pants
$30
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A.L.C.
Helen Tee
$135
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5. BLUE
As you can see via Leandra Medine, this patriotic pairing never fails to look crisp.
Photo:
Sandra Semburg
H&M
Oxford Shirt
$25
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Madewell
Perfect Vintage Jeans
$128
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Mango
Vent Cotton Dress
$70
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6. ARMY GREEN
Army green is certainly an unexpected pairing, but that's what makes it cool. Pair the clashing colors with neutral hues to avoid any confusion.
Photo:
Style du Monde
Anine Bing
Army Jacket
$349
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Lioness
La Quinta Pants
$64
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Mango
Linen 100% Shirt
$60 $40
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7. GRAY
Similar to silver, cool-toned gray makes red pop. Tip: It's a no-fail color combination for the office.