Winter has ended and our spring wardrobes can finally see daylight again.  The best part of spring fashion is storing away our dark and dreary clothes and throwing on a splash of color. But wearing bright colors isn’t as easy as it seems, you have to plan your wardrobe properly to avoid looking like a walking rainbow or a monochromatic color wheel mistake.  Everybody reacts differently to adding color to their wardrobes.  For some, colors are a welcomed addition because it helps them stand out from the crowd, while others are more hesitant to adding color for the same reasons.  The good thing is that adding colors doesn’t have to be such a black and white matter (sorry for that painful pun use) and with the right color pairing, anyone can embrace color this spring.  In order to find the right fit for your specific style, there’s three ways you can go about selecting colors for your spring wardrobe:

1. Wear colors that are similar in shade (analogous)
2. Wear complimentary colors
3. Wear triad colors

The best way to visualize these options is to first look at a color wheel

Wearing Analogous Colors

Analogous colors are colors that are directly adjacent on the color wheel.  For example, yellow and green, blue and purple, and red and orange.  Pairing analogous colors in your outfit is the least eye catching option, making it the ideal combination for people hesitant to introduce color into their wardrobe.  These colors will provide color to your wardrobe without bringing too much attention to yourself and can be worn in every situation from everyday attire to more formal gatherings.

Wearing Complimentary Colors

Complimentary colors are colors opposite each other on the color wheel.  For example, purple and yellow, red and green, and blue and orange.  Pairing complimentary colors in your wardrobe will provide the most vivid and noticeable contrast.  This is best suited for the individual who wants to stand out from the crowd and catch eyes with their outfit.  But be careful! Before you go out and buy a bright orange and blue suit, remember that a little color goes a long way.  Instead, pair your blue shirt with a small accented orange piece like socks or a belt.

Wearing Triad Colors

Triad colors are colors that are equidistant from each other on the color wheel.  For example: orange, green, and purple; and red, yellow, and blue.  Of the three color schemes provided, triad colors will provide you with the most balanced look.  This is best for the individual who wants to stand out with colors but doesn’t feel the need to be the center of attention.  Pairing triad colors is also perfect for outfits that have a lot of pieces like a suit or layered look.  Like complimentary colors though, remember to not go overboard with your colors.

Conclusion

No matter what color combination you go with, remember to wear to with confidence.  Colors are a big step for many men who are used to playing it safe with darker colors.  But with the right combination and attention to detail, colors can provide that extra boost that your wardrobe needs, and will help give you a confident and stylish appeal no matter what situation you wear them in.  Don’t forget to include dark colors in your outfits as well to balance out this new splash of color.  This is best found in a dark pair of jeans or shorts that will give your colorful top even more eye catching appeal.