Best color combinations for every pant style

Choosing the right colour combinations can instantly elevate your outfit and make your pants the star of your look. Whether you’re dressing up for a night out in Sydney or keeping it casual for a weekend brunch in Melbourne, pairing your pants with the right hues is key to effortless style.

Black pants are a wardrobe staple and offer endless versatility. Pair them with crisp white shirts for a classic monochrome look, or add a pop of colour with jewel tones like emerald green or deep burgundy. For a more relaxed vibe, soft pastels like blush pink or sky blue work beautifully.

White or cream pants are perfect for warmer months and look especially fresh when paired with earthy tones like olive, rust, or tan. For a coastal-inspired outfit, try pairing them with light blue or soft grey tops.

Denim jeans come in various washes, and each works best with specific colours. Light-wash denim pairs well with darker shades like navy, charcoal, or forest green, while dark-wash jeans look great with lighter tones such as beige, soft pink, or even a bold red for contrast.

Beige or khaki pants are neutral and easy to style. They look polished with navy, maroon, or black tops. For a more casual, laid-back look, try pairing them with white or muted greens.

Coloured pants like mustard, burgundy, or forest green can make a statement. To balance the look, pair them with neutral tops in white, grey, or black. If you’re feeling bold, try colour-blocking with complementary shades—like pairing burgundy pants with a blush pink top or mustard pants with a navy blouse.

Patterned pants require a bit more attention. If your pants feature stripes, florals, or checks, opt for solid-coloured tops that pick up one of the colours in the pattern. This creates a cohesive look without overwhelming the outfit.

When in doubt, stick to the rule of three: limit your outfit to three main colours to keep it balanced and visually appealing. This approach works well whether you’re dressing for the office or heading out for a casual day in the city.

Tops that elevate your outfit

Choosing the right top can completely transform the way your pants look and feel. Whether you’re styling tailored trousers, relaxed denim, or wide-leg culottes, the top you choose sets the tone for your entire outfit. For a polished, office-ready ensemble, a structured blouse or button-up shirt in a breathable fabric like cotton or linen works beautifully. Tuck it into high-waisted pants to define your waist and create a clean silhouette.

For a more relaxed, everyday look, consider pairing your pants with a simple tee or tank top. A fitted white tee tucked into jeans or chinos is a timeless combo that works for everything from running errands to grabbing coffee with mates. If you’re after something a bit more elevated, opt for a knit top or a ribbed long-sleeve in a neutral tone—perfect for layering under jackets or cardigans during cooler months.

Cropped tops are a great match for high-waisted pants, especially in warmer weather. They show just a hint of skin and help balance out the proportions of wide-leg or flared pants. For a more modest take, try a boxy cropped blouse with elbow-length sleeves—it adds structure without being too revealing.

When styling patterned or brightly coloured pants, keep your top simple to let the pants shine. A plain white or black top is always a safe bet, but soft greys, beiges, or even muted pastels can also work well. On the flip side, if your pants are neutral or understated, feel free to play with bold prints or vibrant colours on top to add personality to your outfit.

Layering is another way to elevate your look. A lightweight blazer over a tucked-in tee can instantly make your outfit feel more put-together. In cooler weather, try a chunky knit jumper or a sleek turtleneck with slim-fit pants for a cosy yet chic vibe.

• For a casual day out: Pair denim jeans with a striped tee and a denim jacket for a classic Aussie look.
• For a smart-casual event: Style tailored pants with a silk blouse and a statement necklace.
• For weekend brunch: Try wide-leg linen pants with a cropped tank and a lightweight cardigan.
• For a night out: Match leather-look pants with a fitted bodysuit or off-the-shoulder top.

Ultimately, the key is to balance proportions and textures. If your pants are loose or flowy, go for a more fitted top to create shape. If your pants are slim or structured, you can play with volume on top—think puff sleeves, ruffles, or oversized knits. With the right top, your favourite pair of pants can take you from day to night with ease.

Shoes that complete the look

The right pair of shoes can make or break your outfit, especially when it comes to styling your favourite pants. Whether you’re heading to a rooftop bar in Brisbane or strolling through a market in Adelaide, choosing footwear that complements your pants is essential for a cohesive and stylish look.

For tailored trousers, opt for sleek footwear that enhances their polished vibe. Classic loafers, pointed-toe flats, or low block heels work beautifully for a smart-casual or office-ready outfit. If you’re dressing up for an evening event, strappy heels or heeled ankle boots can add a touch of sophistication without overpowering the clean lines of the pants.

Denim jeans are incredibly versatile and pair well with a wide range of shoes. For a laid-back, everyday look, white sneakers or slip-on trainers are a go-to. If you’re after something a bit more elevated, try ankle boots or heeled mules. For a night out, swap in a pair of heeled sandals or pointed pumps to instantly dress up your denim.

Wide-leg or palazzo pants call for shoes that add height and balance the volume of the pants. Platform sandals, wedges, or block heels are ideal choices, especially during the warmer months. In cooler weather, heeled boots that tuck neatly under the hem can create a streamlined silhouette. Avoid flat shoes that may get lost under the fabric or make the outfit feel bottom-heavy.

Cropped pants are perfect for showing off your footwear, so make it count. Ankle boots, loafers, or even bold sneakers can all work depending on the occasion. For a more feminine touch, ballet flats or slingback heels add a chic finish. Just be sure the shoe complements the style and colour of your pants to keep the look cohesive.

For linen or relaxed-fit pants, especially in neutral tones, go for natural textures and earthy tones in your footwear. Espadrilles, leather sandals, or woven slides are perfect for a breezy, coastal-inspired outfit. These styles are not only comfortable but also align with the laid-back Aussie lifestyle.

When wearing statement or patterned pants, keep your shoes simple to avoid clashing. Neutral-toned shoes in black, white, tan, or nude will let your pants take centre stage. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can pick a shoe in a colour that matches one of the tones in your pants for a coordinated look.

• For a casual weekend: Pair cuffed jeans with white sneakers and a relaxed tee.
• For a workday: Style slim-fit trousers with loafers or low heels and a structured blouse.
• For a summer outing: Match wide-leg linen pants with tan sandals and a breezy top.
• For a night out: Combine leather-look pants with heeled ankle boots and a bold top.

Comfort is key, especially if you’re on your feet all day. Look for shoes with cushioned soles or supportive insoles, particularly if you’re navigating city streets or spending time outdoors. With the right pair of shoes, your pants will not only look great but also feel just right for any occasion.

Best color combinations for your favorite pants

When it comes to styling your favourite pants, colour pairing is everything. Whether you’re working with classic black trousers, crisp white jeans, or bold-coloured culottes, the right colour combinations can elevate your entire outfit.

• Black pants: A timeless staple, black pairs effortlessly with neutrals like white, beige, and grey for a sleek, minimalist look. For a bolder statement, try jewel tones like emerald, sapphire, or ruby—perfect for adding depth and richness.
• White pants: Ideal for warmer months, white pants look fresh with pastel tops—think blush pink, baby blue, or soft lavender. For a more striking contrast, pair with navy or deep olive green.
• Beige or camel trousers: These earthy tones work beautifully with crisp whites, soft blues, and even burnt orange for a tonal, autumn-inspired palette. Add texture with a knit or linen top to keep it interesting.
• Denim jeans: Whether light-wash or indigo, denim is endlessly versatile. Pair light denim with warm tones like rust, mustard, or terracotta. Dark denim works well with monochrome layers or pops of colour like fuchsia or teal.
• Coloured pants: If you’re wearing bold hues like red, cobalt, or forest green, balance the look with neutral tops—white, black, or grey. Alternatively, go tonal by pairing with a similar shade in a lighter or darker tone for a fashion-forward edge.

Tip: Stick to a maximum of three colours in your outfit to keep the look cohesive and polished.

Tops and shoes that complete the look

Once you’ve nailed the colour palette, it’s time to focus on the tops and shoes that bring your outfit together. The right pairing can shift your look from casual to elevated in seconds, and it’s all about balance, proportion, and texture.

• With tailored trousers: Opt for a structured blouse or a silk cami tucked in to highlight the waist. A cropped blazer adds polish for the office, while a relaxed linen shirt gives it a breezy, off-duty vibe. Finish with pointed-toe pumps or sleek loafers for a refined touch.
• With wide-leg or palazzo pants: Balance the volume with a fitted top—think ribbed tanks, bodysuits, or a tucked-in tee. For shoes, platform sandals or block heels elongate the silhouette and keep proportions in check.
• With skinny jeans or slim-fit pants: Play with oversized or flowy tops like a billowy blouse or a chunky knit. This contrast adds dimension and keeps the look modern. Ankle boots or classic white sneakers are go-to choices, depending on the occasion.
• With culottes or cropped pants: A cropped or tucked-in top keeps the waist defined and the look streamlined. Pair with mules or strappy sandals to show off the ankle and add a feminine edge.
• With joggers or relaxed-fit pants: Elevate casual styles with a structured top—like a boxy tee or a cropped jacket. Add low-profile sneakers or minimalist slides for a chic, street-style finish.

Style tip: When in doubt, match your shoe colour to your top or accessories to create a cohesive, intentional look.