7 Summer Color Combinations That Look Expensive as Heck

Color is one of those things that has the transformative power to completely shift your mood. Just think about it: If you're wearing something like an all-neutral look, you may feel polished and put together, but when you're wearing a pop of chartreuse or lime green, your mood and confidence are inevitably bound to be a bit brighter. This summer, put this theory to the test with a range of color combinations that not only make you feel cheerful but also make your outfit look more expensive.
Why more expensive? We're glad you asked. Though a head-to-toe-black ensemble can definitely look elevated, our favorite designers often lead the way when it comes to new palettes to experiment with. Prada, Balenciaga, Gucci, Maryam Nassir Zadeh, Mansur Gavriel, Cult Gaia, and countless other labels illustrate how a few strategic colors can change things up in a meaningful way. Ahead, discover seven pairings to try out for summer 2019 and shop your favorites to get started.
Lime Green + Bubblegum Pink
For an instant summery duo, try lime green and pale pink together. The contrast between the more eccentric green and delicate pink will feel well-balanced and creative.
Lavender + Pale Yellow
There's something so cool and nostalgic about a purple and yellow pairing, especially when the two are slightly desaturated.
Tonal Greens
Mix and match different tones of green for an elevated monochrome look.
Periwinkle + Mint
Go for an original, flattering combination with a soft mint and periwinkle duo that'll feel perfect for warm summer evenings.
Baby Blue + Light Yellow
Another light, airy summer color combination that's sure to feel elevated but also effortless is baby blue and light yellow.
Chocolate Brown + Lemon Yellow
Team a chocolatey brown with a lemon yellow for a '70s-inspired combination that looks polished and oh so expensive.
Orange + Yellow
Go the citrus route and pair your brightest oranges and yellows together for an instant refresh.
Up Next: The single color that'll make any outfit look instantly more expensive.

Nicole Kliest is a freelance writer and editor based in New York City who focuses on fashion, travel, food, wine, and pretty much anything else that's amusing to write about. After graduating from Pepperdine University with a bachelor's in journalism and creative writing, she started her career back in 2010 as Who What Wear's photo editor and throughout the last decade has contributed to publications including Fashionista, Harper's Bazaar, Elle, The Zoe Report, PopSugar, Fodor's Travel, and several others. She also copywrites and has worked with clients such as Frame, Sea, 3x1, Intelligentsia, and others to develop brand voices through storytelling and creative marketing. She's very passionate about the ways we can improve our sustainability efforts in the fashion industry as well as cultivating content that's diverse and inclusive of all people. When she's not checking out the latest restaurant opening in her West Village neighborhood or riding her bicycle along the West Side Highway, she can be found scheming her next trip somewhere around the world. (Up next is Vienna.)
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