Olive color combinations in fashion can break the everyday black, black, and more black color rutt without causing you to convert into a ray of sunshine. But first, what is the meaning of the color olive? After several different Google searches, it seems the most consistent adjective is peace referring to extending an olive branch.
To understand olive color combinations let’s look at where olive resides on the color wheel. The color olive is in between green and yellow on the color wheel. To make olive green, add blue and yellow together (less blue than yellow) and gradually add red until the shade darkens to a brownish-green color…olive! (Painting tip: always try to avoid using white and black when you can easily lighten or darken a hue using other pigments such as red!)
So…what color goes well with olive?
Opposite on the color wheel to olive is pinkish magenta or plum (darker shade). If you have trouble matching outfits, it’s safe to say that opposite colors are generally visually appealing when paired together. Hence, opposite hues may often be referred to as complementary colors. If you haven’t noticed this before, start looking at advertisements and style lookbooks for contrasting colors.
Typically, olive skin tones look good in reds, pinks, and yes…plum colors! Why? Because olive and magenta shades are opposites on the color wheel.
I love the surprise addition of pink in this sash. I’m not sure of the exact hue, what would you call it? It transforms an otherwise, serious Army Officer’s look, into something strong, feminine, and artistic. The use of the color olive began to increase through the evolution of the U.S. Army Uniform and may have even inspired the design of this One 33 Social dress. Who knows!
Monochromatic Olive Color Combinations
One of my favorite ways to dress is through monochromatic styling. I remember my mother always pulling off mono-chromatic looks well…perhaps because she is an interior designer? Subconsciously, we dress to match our personalities or current psychological states. We also mimic our environment, how we were raised, and our positive observations of clothing as a child. What are your memories of clothing as a child? Close your eyes and reflect! Were there any family members you really admired? If so, how did they dress and how does that affect your style choices now?
Monochromatic means shades and tones from a single hue. Here, I’m wearing Banana Republic Slim Satin Pant (I’m wearing a petite small) and a Fitted Rib Top in Light Jacket Green.
Monochromatic Olive Color Combinations
Interestingly, this monochromatic look allows your eye to travel from top to pant without interruption, making for an elongated and flattering silhouette. Not to mention, this outfit is extremely comfortable and chic! I could wear these pants all day:-).
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