what goes with tan
Tan is a versatile and timeless color that holds a staple position in the fashion world. Its neutral tone serves as an excellent canvas, allowing a wide range of pairing possibilities that can either subtly enhance or boldly transform your outfit. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the best colors to pair with tan, provide styling tips, and share expert advice to help you master the art of wearing this understated yet chic hue.
Understanding Tan and Its Undertones
The Basics of Tan
Tan encompasses a range of light to medium shades that straddle the line between beige and brown. This color family includes khaki, beige, camel, and light brown, each bringing its own unique feel and style options. Tan is celebrated for its neutrality, making it a go-to color for designers and fashion lovers alike.
Cool vs. Warm Undertones
The beauty of tan lies in its versatility, shaped largely by its undertones. Cool tans, like khaki and some shades of beige, have a greyish or silvery undertone, making them ideal for pairing with similarly cool colors. Warm tans, such as camel and light brown, radiate a golden warmth, pairing beautifully with other warm and earthy shades.
Best Colors to Pair with Tan
Vibrant and Contrasting Colors
- Orange and Red: These vibrant hues create a striking contrast with tan, making any outfit stand out. The rich, saturated tones of orange and red draw attention and can transform a simple tan outfit into something bold and exciting. For example, pairing a tan trench coat with a bright red dress can elevate a look instantaneously.
- Deep Amber: This rich, honey-like color complements tan by enhancing its warmth. Pairing tan with deep amber accessories, like a handbag or shoes, can add a sophisticated touch to your outfit, perfect for both casual and formal settings.
Neutral and Cohesive Shades
- Bone and Cream: These colors are only a few shades off from tan, offering a subtle yet impactful look. Bone, in particular, has a cool undertone that pairs well with tan by providing a slight contrast, which is great for achieving a refined and elegant style.
- Chocolate: As a deeper shade of brown, chocolate adds depth to tan outfits. A chocolate dress under a tan blazer is a classic combination that works well for office wear and professional events, providing a balanced and harmonious look.
Cool and Refreshing Hues
- Sky Blue and Pistachio: These lighter colors bring a refreshing and soothing element when paired with tan. The combination is reminiscent of earth and sky, giving outfits a natural and airy feel. Sky blue shirts or pistachio accessories can freshen up a tan suit or ensemble, perfect for spring and summer occasions.
- Lavender: This cool-toned hue pairs beautifully with tan, especially shades with cooler undertones. Lavender brings a touch of femininity and elegance to tan, making it ideal for creating chic and fashionable looks.
Expert Fashion Advice
Interviews with Fashion Designers
Fashion experts consistently recognize the potential of tan in various outfit combinations. Patricia Pietri, founder of Costaiia, notes, “Tan is like a blank canvas that allows other colors to shine. It’s about finding the right balance and tones that complement each other.”
Case Studies
Real-life examples show how fashion influencers and stylists use tan in their wardrobes. A popular fashion blogger was spotted during fashion week pairing a tan overcoat with pistachio culottes, demonstrating the chic compatibility of these hues.
Styling Tips for Different Occasions
Casual Looks
For a casual day out, try pairing tan chinos with a bright blue polo or a simple white T-shirt. Add sneakers or loafers for a comfortable yet stylish look. This outfit works well for brunch, shopping trips, or just a casual stroll in the park.
Formal Attire
For more formal occasions, consider a tan suit with a crisp bone-colored shirt. Accessorize with a silk tie in deep amber or a classic watch with a chocolate leather strap to add a touch of sophistication.
Seasonal Suggestions
In spring and summer, light fabrics and cool tones like sky blue and lavender work beautifully with tan. For fall and winter, layer tan pieces with rich colors like red, chocolate, and deep amber to embrace the season’s mood.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoid wearing too many similar shades together as this can lead to a washed-out look. Ensure there is enough contrast or variation in texture to keep the outfit interesting and dynamic.
Conclusion
Tan is a wonderfully adaptable color that you can easily incorporate into your wardrobe. By understanding its undertones and learning which colors pair best with it, you can create outfits that range from subtly sophisticated to boldly eye-catching.
FAQs About what goes with tan
What colors can I pair with tan for a professional look?
For a professional setting, stick to classic and subdued colors. Pair tan with navy, charcoal, or black for a sharp and sophisticated look. These colors contrast well with tan, creating an outfit suitable for business environments. Adding a white or light blue shirt can also keep the look crisp and clean.
Can tan be worn in all seasons?
Absolutely! Tan is a year-round color. In spring and summer, pair it with lighter shades like pastel pinks, sky blue, or mint green for a fresh look. During fall and winter, richer colors like burgundy, forest green, or mustard yellow can complement tan effectively, aligning with the seasonal mood.
How do I accessorize a tan outfit?
Accessories can make or break your outfit. For a chic look, pair tan clothing with gold or bronze jewelry to enhance its warm undertones. If your tan has cooler undertones, silver or white gold might work better. Leather accessories like belts and shoes in dark brown, navy, or black can also complement tan apparel beautifully.
What colors should I avoid pairing with tan?
While tan is highly versatile, it’s generally advisable to avoid pairing it with colors that are too close in shade but different in undertone, which can cause the outfit to look muddled. For example, avoiding pairing a warm tan with a cool grey can prevent a clashing undertone mismatch.
Is there a difference between how men and women can style tan?
The principles of styling tan are similar for both men and women—focus on contrast, coordination, and seasonality. Men might opt for tan blazers or chinos with navy or white shirts, while women could explore tan skirts or trousers paired with vibrant blouses. The key is balancing the outfit with colors and accessories that reflect personal style.
What textures work well with tan clothing?
Tan works exceptionally well with a variety of textures, which can add depth and interest to your outfit. For a luxurious feel, pair tan with suede or velvet. In more casual settings, cotton and linen in tan can provide a relaxed yet stylish look. Textural contrasts, such as a smooth tan leather jacket with a ribbed cream sweater, also enhance the outfit’s dimensions.
How can I make a tan outfit stand out?
To make a tan outfit stand out, incorporate a statement piece in a contrasting color, like a bright red handbag or a bold blue scarf. Patterns can also play a significant role—try a tan and black striped sweater or a tan floral dress to add visual interest to your look.