Skip to Content

What Colors Look Good with Tan Skin?

July 15, 2025 by
Lewis Calvert

Having tan skin opens up a world of beautiful color possibilities that can make you look radiant and confident. If you’ve ever wondered “what colors look good with tan skin,” you’re about to discover the perfect palette that will enhance your natural glow and make you feel amazing.

Understanding Tan Skin Undertones

Before diving into specific colors, it’s important to understand that tan skin comes with different undertones. These undertones determine what colors look good with tan skin for each individual person.

Warm Undertones

People with warm undertones in their tan skin have hints of golden, yellow, or peachy hues. These undertones work beautifully with certain color families.

Cool Undertones

Some tan skin has cool undertones with hints of pink, red, or blue. Understanding your undertone is key to choosing the most flattering colors.

Neutral Undertones

Many people with tan skin have neutral undertones, which means they can wear both warm and cool colors successfully.

Best Colors for Warm-Toned Tan Skin

If you have warm undertones in your tan skin, these colors will make you absolutely glow:

Color Family Specific Shades Why They Work
Earth Tones Terracotta, Rust, Burnt Orange Complement natural warmth
Warm Reds Coral, Brick Red, Tomato Enhance golden undertones
Yellows Mustard, Golden Yellow, Amber Match skin’s warm base
Greens Olive, Forest Green, Sage Create beautiful contrast

Rich Earth Tones

What colors look good with tan skin with warm undertones? Earth tones are absolutely perfect. Colors like terracotta, rust, and burnt sienna complement the natural warmth in your skin.

Vibrant Corals and Oranges

These colors work like magic on warm-toned tan skin. Coral pink, peach, and bright orange create a stunning, healthy-looking glow.

Perfect Colors for Cool-Toned Tan Skin

For those with cool undertones in their tan skin, these colors are incredibly flattering:

Jewel Tones

Emerald green, sapphire blue, and ruby red look absolutely stunning on cool-toned tan skin. These rich, vibrant colors create beautiful contrast.

Cool Blues and Purples

Navy blue, royal blue, and deep purple are fantastic choices. These colors complement the cool undertones naturally present in your skin.

Berry Shades

Burgundy, plum, and cranberry create gorgeous harmony with cool-toned tan skin.

For more fashion and style tips, read more articles like this on https://www.bigwritehook.co.uk/

Universal Colors That Work for All Tan Skin Tones

Wondering “what colors look good with tan skin” regardless of undertones? These colors are universally flattering:

Classic White

Crisp white creates stunning contrast against tan skin, making it appear even more radiant and healthy.

Deep Navy

Navy blue is incredibly versatile and looks elegant on all tan skin tones, whether warm or cool.

Rich Chocolate Brown

Chocolate brown complements tan skin beautifully and creates a sophisticated, earthy look.

Cream and Off-White

These softer alternatives to pure white are incredibly flattering and versatile for any tan skin tone.

Colors to Approach with Caution

While most colors can work with tan skin, some require more careful consideration:

Pale Pastels

Very light pastels might wash out tan skin. If you love pastels, choose richer, more saturated versions.

Muddy Colors

Colors that appear dull or muddy can make tan skin look flat. Stick to clear, vibrant shades instead.

Too-Bright Neons

While some bright colors work well, extremely fluorescent shades might compete with your natural glow.

Seasonal Color Considerations

What colors look good with tan skin can vary by season and occasion:

Summer Colors

During summer, your tan might be deeper. This is perfect for wearing bright whites, coral, turquoise, and sunny yellows.

Fall Colors

As your tan fades slightly, embrace rich burgundy, deep orange, golden brown, and forest green.

Winter Colors

Maintain your glow with deep jewel tones, rich burgundy, navy blue, and emerald green.

Spring Colors

Welcome the season with soft corals, mint green, sunny yellow, and light turquoise.

Makeup Colors for Tan Skin

Your clothing isn’t the only place where what colors look good with tan skin matters:

Lip Colors

Berry shades, coral, brick red, and nude browns all look gorgeous on tan skin.

Eye Makeup

Golden browns, deep greens, rich purples, and bronze shades enhance tan skin beautifully.

Nail Polish

Coral, deep red, nude pink, and rich browns are perfect nail color choices.

Accessory Color Choices

Jewelry Metals

Gold jewelry typically complements warm-toned tan skin, while silver works well with cool undertones. Rose gold is universally flattering.

Handbag Colors

Cognac brown, deep burgundy, navy blue, and cream are versatile choices that work with many outfits.

Building Your Perfect Wardrobe

Understanding what colors look good with tan skin helps you build a cohesive wardrobe:

Start with Basics

Build your wardrobe foundation with navy, white, cream, and chocolate brown pieces.

Add Statement Colors

Incorporate your most flattering colors through tops, dresses, and accessories.

Mix and Match

Create interesting combinations by pairing complementary colors that all work with your tan skin tone.

Professional vs. Casual Color Choices

Work Wardrobe

For professional settings, focus on navy, deep burgundy, forest green, and rich brown – colors that look polished and sophisticated.

Casual Wear

Have fun with coral, turquoise, sunny yellow, and bright white for weekend and casual occasions.

Conclusion

What colors look good with tan skin? The answer depends on your specific undertones, but tan skin is incredibly versatile and looks amazing in many colors. From rich earth tones and vibrant jewel tones to classic navy and crisp white, you have numerous options to create stunning looks.

The key is understanding your undertones and choosing colors that complement rather than compete with your natural beauty. Whether you prefer bold statement colors or subtle neutral tones, your tan skin provides the perfect canvas for creating beautiful, confident looks that make you feel your absolute best.