Red is such a powerful color, and when styled thoughtfully, it can create looks that are chic, bold, or subtly alluring. In this article, I’ve collected the best tips on how to wear red beautifully, plus 10 outfit ideas for wearing red on any occasion.
Wearing Red 101: Style Tips
Stop! Before you put on that red turtleneck, you need to read these styling tips. Red is a tricky colour, and you need to know a few things so you can wear it right.
Here’s 6 styling tips so you avoid glaring red mistakes and ensure this powerful colour works with you and not against you.
1. Choose the Right Shade of Red
Skin Tone: Cool skin tones look great with blue-based reds (like cherry or wine), while warm skin tones shine in orange-based reds (like tomato or coral). Olive skin tones can generally wear a range of reds.
Occasion: Bright reds work well for a bold look or event, while deeper, muted reds can add elegance to a casual outfit.
2. Balance with Neutrals
Classic Pairing: The classic colour to pair red with is black. Red and black are timeless, creating a dramatic and polished look.
Soft Pairing: Red with neutrals like white, gray, beige, or navy softens the color and makes it more wearable for daytime or professional settings. The neutrals make the red colour truly pop.
3. Start with a Red Accessory
Bags, Shoes, or Scarves: If you’re just starting to add red into your wardrobe, red accessories like a purse, scarf, or shoes can add a pop without overwhelming an outfit.
Statement Jewelry: Red jewelry can also be a beautiful, subtle touch to elevate an outfit.
4. Make It Monochrome
A red monochrome outfit is striking and very fashion-forward. Mix different textures (like a knit sweater with satin pants) to add dimension and make it more visually interesting.
5. Pair with Patterns
Red pairs beautifully with patterns like stripes, leopard print, or subtle plaid for a chic, playful look. Make sure the red piece is a solid color to keep the outfit balanced.
6. Go for Red Lips
A red lipstick is a great way to incorporate red without even adding it to your clothes! Choose a shade that complements your skin tone, and keep the rest of your makeup more neutral for a balanced look.
10 Outfit Ideas to Rock Red for Different Occasions
Casual Day Out
Red Sweater & Jeans: A chunky red sweater paired with medium-wash jeans and red flats creates a cozy, effortless look. Add gold hoop earrings for a touch of elegance.
Red Accessory: Opt for a red scarf or bag with a simple tee and jeans outfit. It gives just the right amount of color for a casual, stylish vibe without going all-in.
Office or Professional Setting
Red Jacket: A tailored red Chanel-Style jacket over a black or white blouse with black pants is both powerful and professional. This combination has a sophisticated feel while giving you a pop of personality.
Red Pencil Skirt: Pair a red pencil skirt with a simple white or black blouse. Keep accessories minimal to maintain a professional vibe.
Night Out
Red Suit: A red suit is an elegant way to wear red on a night out. Tailored pants and a blazer that nips in at the waist creates a structured and flattering look. Make sure the shade of red is flattering to your skin tone, as a red suit is a whole lot of red!
Red Slip Dress: For a bold and glamorous look, a red slip dress with strappy heels is classic and elegant. You can add a leather jacket for some edge or a faux-fur wrap for a luxe touch.
Red Pants with Leather: Pair silky red pants with a black leather jacket and black ankle boots. This edgy look is perfect for an evening with friends.
Date Night
Red Wrap Dress: A wrap dress in red is universally flattering and perfect for a romantic night out. Pair it with nude heels or black stilettos, delicate jewelry, and a soft clutch.
Red Top with Black Midi Skirt: A sleek red blouse tucked into a black midi skirt strikes a balance between classic and daring. Finish the look with a bold lip and statement earrings.
Formal Event
Red Gown: Be a siren at your evening event with a floor length red gown. A floor-length red gown or fitted cocktail dress is a striking choice – you definitely cannot hide in a dress like this! Go for minimal jewelry and let the dress shine, adding just a metallic clutch and heels.
Red and White: If you’re looking to soften the look, try a red skirt or pants paired with an off-white or ivory blouse. This is an elegant alternative to a full red outfit.
Weekend Brunch or Day Date
Red Maxi Skirt: Pair a flowy red maxi skirt with a simple, fitted white or beige top for a light, breezy look. Add sandals or white sneakers and a crossbody bag for a relaxed vibe.
Cropped Red Wide Leg Pants: Red wide leg pants are a perfect base for a casual outfit. Paired with a white tee and a denim jacket, this casual outfit has personality without being overpowering.
Red at the Holidays
Red Velvet Dress: Perfect for holiday parties, a red velvet dress with silver or gold accessories feels festive and chic. Opt for knee-high boots or classic heels to complete the look.
Red Plaid Accessories: If you prefer a subtler approach, try adding a red plaid scarf or a tartan coat to your outfit for a cozy, winter-friendly pop of red.
