Avec Style:The 10 Rules of Color Harmony

Color is often the first thing to be addressed when fashion and personal style are the subject...

The  10 Rules of Color Harmony

1.  Limit the number of colors in your outfit to no more than 3.  You will in this way create a visual harmony.

2.  A print will often include more than 3 colors.  In order to create balance, focus on the color which is most prominent in the print when finishing your outfit.  Example:  A black jacket is a good complement to a dress of multicolored flowers on a black background.

3.  To lighten your silhouette, it is preferable to wear lighter/brighter colors on the top half of your body, and darker ones on the bottom, rather than the inverse.  Bright colors seem visually lighter than darker colors do, and they also bring a flattering light to your face.

4. Warm, bright colors - red, orange, fuchsia, yellow - give off an aura which is synonymous with energy. Wear them on rainy days!

5.  One color can influence the way in which another appears.   Example:  Grey pants and a pale pink blouse can seem dreary.  But white pants worn with the same pink blouse can appear luminous.

6.  An outfit composed of three colors - in cameo - is elegant and attractive.  (note - they're talking about 3 closely related colors) Example: Choose coffee brown pants with an ivory blouse and a sable brown jacket.

7.  Colors in a fabric that is shiny or reflective will seem lighter, because their surface reflects lights. On the other hand, the color of a fabric which is matte will seem darker and more sober.

8.  Green, worn near your face - especially if shiny - accentuates discolorations in your skin.  In the same way, shiny fabrics will accentuate the appearance of oily skin.

9.  In order to effectively accent a monochromatic outfit, include a touch of a complementary color.  Example: A blue suit with an orange blouse,or a red dress with a green handbag.

10.  There are the neutral colors which are easiest for most people to wear: black, white, grey, beige, navy, brown, khaki. (Not sure this is true...)