Prime your closet for more color with this series of #SGapproved color guides, breaking down the best ways to wear bright hues (like how to wear salmon!) with easy color combinations and outfit ideas.
Catch up on all our color guides, including: bright blue, amber, lavender, army green, slate grey, orange, teal, khaki, red, evergreen, white, cobalt blue, mint green, orange sorbet, yellow and navy.
Salmon: it’s so much more than a compromise sushi roll when you’re out with a group! Salmon is also an awesome color for guys to wear.
It falls between pink and orange, and tends to bring out the best in everyone’s skin. Just like the Omega-3 fatty acids in salmon, coincidentally!
Understanding the Salmon Spectrum
First thing’s first, you should know that salmon isn’t really just one shade. It exists on a spectrum, ranging from a soft, peachy pink, all the way to a bolder coral color. You don’t really have to concern yourself with the subtleties, but just know you’ll see colors in this guide that look more pink, and some that look more orange or red.
This means that when shopping for salmon color clothes, you’ll have to get a little creative. Because most likely, you won’t find a “salmon” color filter on most retailer websites. To find what you’re looking for, be sure to check off both “pink” and “orange” to narrow your options to items in the salmon spectrum.
Who looks good in salmon?
Salmon is one of those colors that works for basically everyone’s skin tone. Just be sure you seek out the right shade of salmon.
Guys with more of an olive undertone can wear a brighter shade of salmon, while those with fairer skin will want to choose a shade that looks more like a pastel.
Colors to wear with salmon
What colors go with salmon
Here’s a few ways you can go when wearing salmon:
In the Army: Tone down the “pop” of salmon with army green. You could wear a pair of camo pants or shorts with a salmon polo for an unexpected mix of colors and patterns.
Denim Delight: Salmon and denim or chambray are a match made in casual heaven. A salmon T-shirt with dark wash jeans and white sneakers is a foolproof weekend outfit.
Monochrome Magic: Embrace all the sorbet flavors! A tonal look with a light salmon shirt layered over a coral linen blazer and paired with beige chinos creates a summery statement.
Nautical Chic: You can also channel your inner sailor by pairing salmon with navy. A salmon polo with navy chinos and brown loafers creates a timeless, preppy look.
Salmon color men’s outfit inspiration
Shopping for salmon colors
Building A Base:
The beauty of salmon lies in its ability to complement a variety of colors and styles. Here are some ways to incorporate it into your wardrobe:
- Shirts: A linen shirt in this summery color is a great addition to your warm weather wardrobe. Pair it with light-colored chinos and an espadrille for a breezy weekend look, or layer it under a navy blazer for a touch of summery sophistication at the office.
- Accessories: A bandana in a salmon color rolled around your neck, or sticking out of a pocket, makes a great outfit accent.
- Polo shirt: A short-sleeve polo in piqué cotton or a knit style would add a pop of color to a business casual or weekend look.
- Sweaters: Don’t relegate salmon to warm weather! A lightweight cotton or cashmere crewneck in a muted salmon can add unexpected sophistication to your fall and winter wardrobe. Pair it with dark wash jeans and brown Chelsea boots for a stylish look.
When to wear salmon
You can wear salmon all year round, though you’ll probably find it more often in summer clothes. Think: linen shorts, short-sleeve button-ups, and lightweight cotton sweaters.
In colder weather, look for heavier knits like sweaters and oxford shirts in salmon.
If you’re feeling bold, you can also wear salmon-colored pants.
Chinos are always a good way to go. You’ll love how they elevate a casual outfit into something more special.
Salmon color outfit inspiration
More real world style examples!
How to wear a salmon-colored shirt
SG Says: Man oh man, does this shirt pop against that navy sport coat or what? With the chocolate brown shoes and oatmeal-colored twill pants, this look is 100’s all around.
How to wear a salmon suit (yes, really!)
SG Says: Check out plus-size blogger Notoriously Dapper in a double-breasted, salmon-colored suit! Now that is a look. And, for the record, he’s totally pulling it off.
Not quite ready to go for a full DB look in salmon? Try a trouser in the color with a lightweight dress shirt in summer.
The bottom line? Salmon is a color that injects a dose of personality and vibrancy into a man’s wardrobe. By understanding its versatility and exploring different color combinations, you can wear salmon with confidence, no matter the season. So, ditch the fashion faux pas fears and embrace the playful sophistication of this delightful hue.
Want some help updating your closet’s contents with more color? Turn to Team SG!
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