To begin with, olive skin exudes a radiance that many can only dream of. But one common question that those with olive skin commonly ask is—what colors look good on olive skin?
If you’re someone with an olive skin tone, you would understand the struggle of entering a store, getting cautiously excited about a fantastic top you just saw. You try it on, but alas, it does not suit your skin tone.
Don’t lose hope! There are plenty of hues that suit olive skin tones all too well. If you love robust, bold notes or prefer muted tones, there’s something in it for everyone.
This article defines what we mean by olive skin tones and colors that look good on it.
What Is An Olive Skin Tone?
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In its literal definition, olive is a color that is a shade of green. But when it comes to skin tones, that’s not entirely true.
Some olive skin tones are yellow, while others have a greenish tinge. Skin with blue undertones looks greener or more olive, whereas skin with yellow hues has a golden or bronze look.
An easy way to verify if you have an olive skin tone is to compare it on the Fitzpatrick color scale. Olive skin tones are typically Fitzpatrick Type III or rarely IV on the scale.
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What Colors Look Good On Olive Skin?
Monochrome – Yellows and Greens
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One of the easiest ways to find clothes that will suit your olive skin is to go monochromatic. In simple terms, it means choosing colors similar to your actual skin tone. So, in this case, it would be yellow greens or yellow tones.
If you want to be bold and add some sparkle and shine, go for chartreuse. But if you want something subtle yet want to feel confident with what you’re wearing, simple yellows can do the trick.
The next time you’re out shopping, look for army, sunshine, yellow, olive, and lime-colored clothes.
Complementary Shades – Reds, Magentas, and Pinks
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While monochrome is often considered a safer bet, complementary shades or colors on the other end of the spectrum are not for the faint of heart. However, color contrasts work, and they work for a reason.
This option offers a myriad of opposite colors that will suit your skin tone. Some of them are magenta or purple, bubble gum, wine, and even bold reds. Choosing complementary colors gives your skin that much-needed lift.
Analogous – Yellow, Oranges, And Greens
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Analogous hues are colors that are either one shade to the left or one shade to the right of olive green. So, these are calming greens or yellow-orange shades that are unique.
If you love earthy tones, this is the perfect choice for you, and they blend well with beige, khakis, and browns and will give your skin a natural aura.
Triadic – Blue-Purples And Red-Oranges
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Triadic tones are primarily blue-purple and red-orange. Now, if robust, bright colors are those that you appreciate and feel comfortable in, triadic tones may just be what you need.
And there’s more good news. Such tones are extremely versatile, and all shades—dark, light, muted, and even bold variants are well-suited to olive skin tones. However, if you choose such shades, it is always a good idea to try them out first to ensure they do not clash with your skin color.
Creamy Whites
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Consider simple yet elegant creamy white outfits if you’re looking for a more muted look. They work especially well for spring and summer looks and add radiance to your overall skin tone. Moreover, they are versatile and can be paired with almost any top or bottom.
Neutral Colors That Compliment Olive Skin
Folks with olive skin tones have much going for them and can choose effortlessly between vibrant or muted looks. When in doubt, here are three shades you can always rely on:
Blacks
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Whether it’s the 80s, 90s, or even now, blacks never go out of fashion, and for good reason. It suits all skin tones, exudes polished confidence, and is versatile.
Whites
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Like blacks, pure whites can truly make your olive skin tone stand out from the crowd. Choose all whites for an elegant look anywhere you go. Off-white, creamy white can also do the trick.
