One of the trickier elements of achieving good style is color theory. That is, what looks good together, what matches, what contrasts well, the works!
When men initially start their style journey, before they learn about the context and history of various aesthetics, they’ll often try tackling color first.
And for good reason. Not matching correctly or poor color choices are a quick and easy way to doom your outfit. Getting it right takes a trained eye – or a handy guide like this one.
Specifically in the summer months, there tend to be more color options available to men’s clothing than ever. Less layers means our outfits are sometimes encouraged to make a statement through different means, whether that’s through pattern, texture, or perhaps most obviously, color!
And so, without further ado, here are our recommendations for no-fail color combinations for men’s outfits this summer.
White, Red, and Navy Blue
Perhaps a bit on-the-nose for the Fourth of July season, but arguably all the more so appropriate because of it, there’s something nostalgic about loosely representing the American flag during the summer – albeit tastefully.
One sure way to nail this formula without mistakenly getting raised along the flag pole is to combine a classic white tee with navy blue pants, shorts, or denim, along with a primary or dark red cardigan for cool summer evenings.
Too warm for the cardigan? Consider a blue and red patterned top with white shorts or white linen trousers for a similar effect with more cooling factor.
It’s a brilliant combo with just a dash of patriotic flair. Trust us!
Off-White, Tan, and Forest Green
Sometimes, deep contrast is what you want for maximum dynamism in an outfit. To experiment with this color combination, try pairing a pair of off-white painter/carpenter pants with a dark, forest green top (either a tee or a camp collar shirt). Tie it all together with a pair of tan loafers and a matching tan braided belt!
Looking to go cooler? Perhaps opt for a pair of forest green shorts and an off-white tee. Finish it off with a sleek pair of tan espadrilles or elegant fisherman’s sandals, and you’re ready to hit the sun!
Classic Black and White
Minimalism can be elegant, and there’s no better proof than the classic black and white combo.
This generally works best for slightly elevated outfits, ranging from smart casual to business casual. Try starting with a pair of white pleated trousers, preferably in a breathable fabric like cotton, or even better, linen. Pair them with a black knit polo, tucked in ideally, and accessorize with a black leather belt and matching loafers.
A more elegant way to spin this combo is with a white linen suit – paired with a simple black tee shirt. If you’re feeling a bit of retro flair in your veins, dare to swap the tee for a black shirt with a 70s-inspired, jumbo collar worn popped over the jacket’s lapels. You can totally pull it off with confidence – we promise.
Autumnal Orange and Sage Green
Are you an autumnal soul? As in, someone who wishes it was fall during all three other seasons? We don’t blame you! Autumn color palettes are some of the most visually pleasing and downright cozy.
The good news is, you don’t have to wait until fall to incorporate autumnal earth tones into your summer wardrobe! It’s not like it’s illegal. If anything, it’s a fun nod to another season when worn properly.
A burnt or rust orange definitely screams fall, but when utilized on a classic camp collar shirt and paired with a more summery sage green (either in short or linen trouser iterations), it surprisingly works!
Soft Pink and Deep Blue
When worn well, pink can be a surprisingly masculine color that echoes elegance and signals sophistication.
An easy way to see this for yourself is by pairing deep blue trousers (try seersucker or linen for ideal weather friendly comfort) with a soft pink linen shirt – either long sleeve or short. You can also swap the pants for shorts if that’s more your thing.
The rich contrast between pink and blue tones is especially exciting in summer, where both colors reign highly.
White on White on White (or Maybe Tan)
No, no, we’re not kidding around with this one. If you’re lacking in the hair department, you might choose to avoid this combo in order to beat the “Mr. Clean” allegations, but when done well, we still think this look is a power-move.
The key is to incorporate summer texture. White pants or shorts in either linen or seersucker, combined with a white top in a similar fabric. Linen on linen works wonders. Seersucker on linen is great, too. Seersucker on seersucker tends to work best with a suit, but use your discretion.
Finish it off with either white sneakers (canvas ones are great) or a daring white loafer. Alternatively, if you want to break up the white just a drop, consider opting for tan shoes with a matching belt. In many ways, it’s arguably more elegant.
Tan and Teal
Tan is a canvas upon which everything will match, which is why going bold and exciting with a contrasting shade is a good bet. Teal is a fine choice because it’s reminiscent of mediterranean oceans and mosaic tiles, further reinforcing the summery association.
The safest way to approach this look is with tan chinos or shorts combined with a rich teal top (either a tee, linen shirt, or camp collar shirt). Tan or brown accessories will seal the deal, but an alternative method is to reverse the colors on their head.
Teal shorts are quite striking but within the bounds of good taste, and a tan linen shirt looks absolutely stellar with them. Try it for yourself!
Beige, Chocolate Brown, and Sage Green
Looking for something similar to the previous option but one that works a bit better in more professional settings? Beige trousers, paired with chocolate brown loafers and a matching belt, look great with sage green, a calmer alternative to teal.
Sometimes referred to as seafoam green, sage looks especially elegant when represented by a linen fabric.
Calm Gray and Black
Don’t underestimate the versatility of gray in your summer wardrobe. In truth, it can go with almost anything, but looks sleekest when paired with black.
Not convinced? Try combining a pair of gray linen pants with a black knit polo for that after work rooftop party, or gray shorts with a black tee for a sleek and minimal laid-back day. From fine summer tailoring to relaxed and leisurely attire, this combo is something of a cheat code, if you ask us.
Maroon and Mint
We’re not done with shades of red! Maroon is often seen as one of the more mature shades, but you can make it feel a bit more playful if you pair it next to an airy mint color tone.
A pair of mint green (fainter than sage, in most cases) pants or shorts delivers extra wow-factor when placed alongside a maroon red top. From tees to polos to linen button downs, you’ve got options. But you can reverse the positions too! Try maroon shorts with a mint tee on toasty days for a look that’ll keep you cool and looking, well, cooler!
Lastly, Experiment!
Aside from these specific seasonal recommendations, allow yourself to have fun and experiment with different color and color combinations on your own! It takes time and experience to gain a truly trained eye, and while learning the basics of color theory can help, your personal style journey will thank you for any hands-on experience!.
So go out there, and give some of these a whirl. When you’re ready, feel free to try new ideas out for yourself!