Fit, care and budget
Best colours for dark skin: a men's guide
By sneakersInn team · Updated
Dark skin carries a wider range of colours than almost any other skin tone: crisp white and cream, rich jewel tones like cobalt, emerald and burgundy, warm earth tones like mustard, rust and olive, and classic navy and grey. The key is contrast. Bright and light colours create a crisp, striking look; deep colours create a rich, smooth one.
| Colour family | Examples | Effect on dark skin |
|---|---|---|
| Whites and lights | White, cream, ivory, sky blue | High contrast, crisp and fresh |
| Jewel tones | Cobalt, emerald, burgundy, purple | Rich, glowing |
| Earth tones | Mustard, rust, olive, camel, tan | Warm, relaxed |
| Classic neutrals | Navy, charcoal, grey, black | Sharp, versatile |
| Pastels | Lavender, mint, pink, peach | Fresh in daytime, strong contrast |
How does contrast work?
Contrast is the difference between your skin and the colours near your face. A white shirt against dark skin gives high contrast, which looks sharp and catches light. Dark colours give lower contrast, which looks sleek. Both work; choose based on the occasion and time of day.
What about undertones?
Undertone is the hue beneath your skin: warm (golden or red), cool (blue or ashy) or neutral. Warm undertones glow in mustard, rust, olive and camel; cool undertones look great in cobalt, emerald, burgundy and bright white. Most people can wear both; hold colours near your face in daylight and notice which make your skin look brighter.
Are there colours to avoid?
Very few. Colours very close to your skin tone, such as some browns, can blend in; break them up with a white or bright piece. Very dull, greyish pastels can look flat; choose clearer versions.
Outfit ideas
- White linen shirt, navy trousers, brown loafers (daytime).
- Emerald knitted polo, black trousers, black sneakers (evening).
- Mustard tee, olive overshirt, dark jeans (weekend).
- Burgundy suit, black shirt, black shoes (events). See suit colours for dark skin tones.
- Cream knit, stone chinos, white sneakers (smart casual).
How do I use colour at events?
Ghanaian events welcome colour. Wear one bold colour and keep the rest neutral. See the Detty December style guide.
Questions
Does black look good on dark skin?
Yes, especially with a white shirt or gold and silver accessories for contrast.
Which colours photograph best?
Mid-tones and jewel tones. Very bright white can overexpose in harsh sun.