Orange is not the easiest color to wear as the color can be quite bright and overpowering. However, if you look more carefully, there are actually a lot of fabulous ways to wear orange in all kinds of color combinations. In this updated comprehensive guide I show you how to wear orange in a number of surprising ways. 

How to wear orange: Colors that go with orange

As I usually do when I look for inspiration on how to wear a certain color I visited colourlovers.com.

It’s a great site where you can create your own color combinations or get inspired by those of others.

Here is what I found.

how to wear orange | 40plusstyle.com
colors to mix with orange | 40plusstyle.com
orange blue and black color combination | 40plusstyle.com
orange combined with pastel colors | 40plusstyle.com

The versatility of orange

Can you believe that orange looks so good with so many colors? It’s actually proving to be quite a versatile color.

I have seen orange in the shops in all kinds of shades from very bright to more demure colors, so you can just pick the color orange that suits your complexion and temperament best and mix and match with all these other fine colors.

You don’t even have to buy a garment in this color. Just adding a scarf or a bag will already give you that orange flavor and will add some flair to your outfit.

What skin tone can wear orange?

Orange looks fabulous on all skin tones, if you choose the right shade of orange. Orange tends to be easier to wear if you have a warm skintone. But you can still wear orange if you have a cooler tone. Just choose a bright orange.

How do you wear the color orange?

Surprisingly, orange goes with so many other colors. In this article, we show you lots of ideas for wearing orange, including what colors to wear with it.

Is orange a hard color to wear?

While orange can be tricky to wear, it can also look super stylish. If you want to wear orange but you don’t want to go ‘all-in’, then use orange for your accessories, or choose orange with a print pattern rather than all-over orange.

Does black go with orange?

Of course. Black goes well with everything. You’ll find black and orange outfit ideas if you read on.

Orange outfits 2024 catwalks

There was plenty of orange on the 2024 runways, from peaches to flame orange. The majority of designers who used the shade opted for muted tones or prints. Below is how designers interpreted the trend.

Orange outfits on the spring and summer 2024 catwalks | 40plusstyle.com

A.P.C. – Balmain Gucci

Take a look at the perfect orange clothes and accessories for you

Before you can think about what colors go with orange, you will need to find the perfect orange clothes and accessories to provide inspiration for the rest of your outfit.

You’ll see we’ve updated this article with some extra color combinations.

The perfect orange dress

This shirtdress below comes in a soft peach that is perfect to wear on vacation. Team with metallic accessories.

Ginger & Smart Keepsake Cotton Shirtdress | 40plusstyle.com

Ginger & Smart Keepsake Cotton Shirtdress

The perfect orange maxi dress

The maxi dress below is ideal for summer events and vacations.

It makes a statement all by itself, meaning you could keep the rest of your accessories to a minimum and still make a big impact.

Bec & Bridge Azalea Floral Wrap Maxi Dress | 40plusstyle.com

Bec & Bridge Azalea Floral Wrap Maxi Dress

Orange dress and white shoes outfit | 40plusstyle.com

Boma @mrs.gaf above chooses a floor skimming orange dress worn with white shoes.

Recreate her outfit with this similar dress (another option here), sandals, bag (another option here) and necklace.

orange t-shirt dress

For a more casual choice, you could opt for a T-shirt dress. You could wear day-to-day with sneakers and a denim jacket. Or, you could easily dress it up for evening with a blazer, heels and a statement necklace. The loose-fit dress (below) has good reviews from women who say it is comfortable and flattering. You can alter the silhouette with a belt.

ANRABESS T-Shirt Maxi Dress | 40plusstyle.com

ANRABESS T-Shirt Maxi Dress

printed dress

A print is a great way to wear orange, particularly if you aren’t sure about adding this color to your closet. Wear the chiffon dress (below) as a tunic over your leggings.

Chelsea28 Floral Print Long Sleeve Chiffon Dress | 40plusstyle.com

Chelsea28 Floral Print Long Sleeve Chiffon Dress

asymmetrical dress

We love the asymmetry of the orange tiered dress (below). Dress casually with flat sandals, or wear with heeled sandals for a summer event.

& Other Stories Ruched Relaxed-Fit Asymmetric Dress | 40plusstyle.com

& Other Stories Ruched Relaxed-Fit Asymmetric Dress

sheath dress

You can wear orange in your smart or casual outfits. The sheath dress (below) has a formal look that would work well if you are a wedding guest, with heels for dinner, or you could add a black blazer and loafers for work.

Dress the Population Amada Sheath Dress | 40plusstyle.com

Dress the Population Amada Sheath Dress

jumpsuit

Or, how about an orange jumpsuit? This Vince Camuto jumpsuit (below) would look beautiful with metallic shoes and accessories, or with a white or black blazer and matching shoes.

Vince Camuto Chiffon Jumpsuit | 40plusstyle.com

Vince Camuto Chiffon Jumpsuit

Sylvia wears an orange jumpsuit | 40plusstyle.com

Jumpsuit from QUARZIA (similar options here and here), sandals from FLY London (similar option here), hat from Brizza (similar option here), similar sunglasses and earrings

The perfect orange shirt

You probably already have a classic white shirt in your closet, but how about an orange shirt in a classic shape?

This shirt from Nordstrom is made from satin, making it perfect to dress up you jeans, or to wear over your leggings.

Nordstrom Satin Shirt | 40plusstyle.com

Nordstrom Satin Shirt

printed shirt

The print shirt (below) would look good tucked into jeans or worn with leggings. Or, you could wear as a swimsuit cover-up.

Melissa Odabash Paige Paisley Buttoned Shirt | 40plusstyle.com

Melissa Odabash Paige Paisley Buttoned Shirt

orange t-shirt

Looking for an orange T-shirt to go with your jeans? The T-shirt (below) should keep you cool and stylish.

ATM Anthony Thomas Melillo Schoolboy Slub Jersey T-Shirt | 40plusstyle.com

ATM Anthony Thomas Melillo Schoolboy Slub Jersey T-Shirt

orange tank top

For a warm weather top, you may prefer one without sleeves. You could wear with a shirt or lightweight duster jacket over the top.

Veronica Beard Moulin Crewneck Tank Top | 40plusstyle.com

Veronica Beard Moulin Crewneck Tank Top

The perfect orange top

This top from Chaus has a wrap top, which adds a point of difference.

An orange top would look lovely with white jeans and metallic accessories for summer.

Chaus Textured Faux Wrap Top | 40plusstyle.com

Chaus Textured Faux Wrap Top

Dayle wears an orange and black outfit | 40plusstyle.com

Dayle @artfulcitystyle above (read her style interview here) shows how you can team orange with black.

Get her look with this similar top, pants, shoes and necklace and bracelet.

printed top

A print top like the Misook top (below) will look good worn with your jeans or wide-leg pants.

Misook Abstract Print Crêpe de Chine Top | 40plusstyle.com

Misook Abstract Print Crêpe de Chine Top

orange blouse

The orange blouse (below) could be worn alone, or would be ideal to wear under a blazer.

Akris punto Silk Sleeveless Blouse | 40plusstyle.com

Akris punto Silk Sleeveless Blouse

The perfect orange sweater

Orange can be the ideal color to add some flair to even the most casual of outfits.

You could wear an orange sweater with jeans and sneakers or a leather or pleated skirt.

The American Vintage sweater below would look good layered over a white shirt.

American Vintage Damsville Boatneck Sweater | 40plusstyle.com

American Vintage Damsville Boatneck Sweater

orange blazer

For a smart option, an orange blazer could be a good jacket choice. The orange blazer (below) could be styled simply with a white t-shirt and jeans. Or, you could wear over a black dress.

EFOFEI Slim Fit Blazer | 40plusstyle.com

EFOFEI Slim Fit Blazer

The perfect orange cardigan

A long, draped cardigan can be a lovely way to add interest as well as to hide any parts of your body you aren’t so confident about, and to create nice, long lean lines.

This cardigan (below) will add flattering drama to any of your outfits.

Urban CoCo Open Front Knit Cardigan | 40plusstyle.com

Urban CoCo Open Front Knit Cardigan

Greetje wears an orange and white outfit | 40plusstyle.com

Greetje @no_fear_of_fashion above (read her style interview here) shows how you could wear an orange cardigan with your white jeans.

Steal her look with this similar top, cardigan, jeans and espadrille sandals.

The perfect orange jacket

Do you already have a moto jacket or denim jacket in your closet? Instead of traditional black or blue, how about opting for orange?

The luvamia jacket (below) would look stylish worn over a white or black dress for summer. Reviewers say it has the perfect stretch.

luvamia Denim Jean Jacket | 40plusstyle.com

luvamia Denim Jean Jacket

the perfect orange jeans

This pair of jeans from GRAPENT (below) is designed with comfortable stretch and could flatter you from day to night. You could wear with a white shirt.

GRAPENT High Waisted Wide Leg Jeans | 40plusstyle.com

GRAPENT High Waisted Wide Leg Jeans

The perfect orange pants

You could opt for a pair of orange jeans, or choose a more tailored pair of orange pants like these ones below from Akris punto. Either way, these will be the hero piece in your outfit.

Akris punto Chieko Mid-Rise Cropped Pants | 40plusstyle.com

Akris punto Chieko Mid-Rise Cropped Pants

printed pants

Printed pants are a great option for casual days, vacations, or summer events.

Figue Charlotte Floral Crop Wide-Leg Pants | 40plusstyle.com

Figue Charlotte Floral Crop Wide-Leg Pants

The perfect orange skirt

You could wear the skirt below with a white shirt or a camisole and blazer for a dinner date.

Kate Kasin Bow Tie Pencil Skirt | 40plusstyle.com

Kate Kasin Bow Tie Pencil Skirt

The perfect orange shoes

Shoes can be a stylish way to transform an outfit.

The ballet flat (below) will add a pop of color and an on-trend element to any look.

SARTO by Franco Sarto Flexa Antona Slingback Ballet Flat | 40plusstyle.com

SARTO by Franco Sarto Flexa Antona Slingback Ballet Flat

Also take a look at arch support shoes for women.

The perfect orange bag

Just as the shoes you wear can make a big difference to the overall look of your outfit, the handbag you opt for can create a refreshing pop of brightness.

AllSaints Ezra Logo Strap Leather Crossbody Bag | 40plusstyle.com

AllSaints Ezra Logo Strap Leather Crossbody Bag

Jona wears an orange print blouse with her jeans | 40plusstyle.com

Jona @the50plusgirl above chooses an orange floral shirt with her jeans, and matches it to her orange tassel bag.

Check out this similar shirt (other options here and here), jeans, bag, sandals and sunglasses.

orange swimsuit

Do you have a black swimsuit in your wardrobe? Have you thought about an orange swimsuit. It’s unlikely anyone else will have chosen orange, and we love the ruching and tie-detail on the one-piece (below.

You’ll find more inspiration in our article on the best bathing suits for women.

Johanna Ortiz Tarangire One-Piece Swimsuit | 40plusstyle.com

Johanna Ortiz Tarangire One-Piece Swimsuit

So, now that you have chosen your favorite orange item, what color should you wear it with? Below, you will find suggestions.

Let me know in the comments at the bottom which color combination is your favorite.

how to wear orange

Now let’s look at some of the best colors to wear with orange.

1. Pair orange with neutrals – white

A great way to let the bold tones of your orange piece stand out without competing with any other color, is to pair orange with neutrals. From black to nude shades, your look will be cleaner and more refined with the fun and punchy characteristics of orange.

Orange and white outfit | 40plusstyle.com

American Vintage Damsville Boatneck SweaterAkris punto Chiara High-Rise Stretch Wide JeansJessica Simpson Prim Ankle Wrap Pointed Toe SandalCOACH Dakota Glovetanned Leather Bucket Bagkate spade new york Precious Delight Hoop Earrings

Shan wears orange print pants | 40plusstyle.com

Shan @teachingonthegc above chooses a great look for summer, with a pair of orange print pants and matching espadrilles.

Check out this similar tank top, pants (another option here), espadrille sandals and crossbody bag.

2. Pair orange with neutrals – black

Is there anything black doesn’t go with? If you aren’t sure what to wear with your orange, black is definitely a safe, and stylish, option.

Orange and black outfit | 40plusstyle.com

Chelsea28 Floral Print Long Sleeve Chiffon DressZella Live In High Waist LeggingsJohnston & Murphy Evelyn Open Toe BootiesMadewell The Sydney Zip Top Crossbody BagDeepa Gurnani Leesha Crystal Stud Earrings

3. Pair orange with neutrals – beige

Beige is one of those colors which is often seen as “boring”. You may also like to take a look at can you wear beige? One way to make sure that your beige definitely isn’t dull is to wear it with orange.

Orange and beige outfit idea | 40plusstyle.com

Cinq à Sept Della Faux Leather Crop JacketVince Camuto Chiffon JumpsuitAnne Klein Renatta SandalsTory Burch Mini Ella Bio ToteKendra Scott Daphne Drop Earrings

Sharryn wears orange and beige | 40plusstyle.com

Sharryn @thestylishwoman above (read her style interview here) adds a little touch of orange by letting her orange top peek through her outfit.

Steal her look with this similar camisole, poncho, pants, sneakers and earrings.

4. Pair orange with neutrals – gray

Another fantastic way to wear orange is with gray. While gray has an unfair reputation for being dull, wearing with a pop of bright color with definitely liven it up.

Orange and gray outfit | 40plusstyle.com

AllSaints March Merino Wool Cowl Neck SweaterKate Kasin Bow Tie Pencil SkirtAnne Klein Islander Slingback PumpsHOBO Jesse Leather Crossbody BagDeepa Gurnani Leesha Crystal Stud Earrings

5. Orange and pink

Whether you choose a paler shade of pink or a shocking shade, pink with orange can be an unexpected, yet beautiful combination.

Pink and orange outfit combination | 40plusstyle.com

& Other Stories Cropped Knit CardiganFavorite Daughter The Taylor Low-Rise TrousersStuart Weitzman Pro Sleek SneakerCOACH Dakota Glovetanned Leather Bucket Bagkate spade new york Precious Delight Hoop Earrings

KIm wears a purple and orange outfit | 40plusstyle.com

Kim @kimair above (read her style interview here) mixes purple with orange and brown.

Check out this similar sweater (another option here), skirt, boots, clutch and sunglasses.

6. Orange with green

If you love a natural style, you could choose a muted olive or pastel green to wear with your orange such as the tones of the pants and top below.

Or, opt for brighter shades of orange and green together.

Orange with green outfit | 40plusstyle.com

Naadam Wool & Cashmere V-Neck SweaterAkris punto Chieko Mid-Rise Cropped PantsJessica Simpson Prim Ankle Wrap Pointed Toe SandalHOBO Jesse Leather Crossbody BagDeepa Gurnani Leesha Crystal Stud Earrings

7. Orange with shades of blue

Pairing orange with navy blue can bring out the best in both colors. Adding orange accessories to navy blue can make a dark shade look more summery.

Orange and navy blue | 40plusstyle.com

Melissa Odabash Paige Paisley Buttoned ShirtAnne Klein Pull-On PantsAnne Klein Islander Slingback PumpsAnne Klein Convertible Minimal Hobo Bagkate spade new york Precious Delight Hoop Earrings

How to wear orange | 40plusstyle.com

Tanasha @letsrecreatethelook above shows how beautiful orange and cobalt blue look together.

Get her look with this similar shirt, pants, pumps, handbag and earrings.

8. Embrace the purple-orange clash

Orange and purple are a style favorite when it comes to contrasting combinations. Visually appealing, the two dynamic shades create a bold and chic look when paired together.

The key here is to ensure you add a neutral piece, such as a pair of white shoes, a black bag or a dash of gold jewelry, to the look to keep it from being an overwhelming display of colors.

You could also opt for paler peachy oranges and lilacs together.

Orange and purple outfit idea | 40plusstyle.com

& Other Stories Faux Wrap Midi Shirt DressSARTO by Franco Sarto Flexa Antona Slingback Ballet FlatTory Burch Fleming Soft Metallic Quilt Mini Chain Totekate spade new york Precious Delight Hoop Earrings

9. Orange with turquoise

Pairing orange with turquoise can be a beautiful look for summer.

Orange and turquoise outfit | 40plusstyle.com

& Other Stories Ruched Relaxed-Fit Asymmetric DressSpring Step L’Artiste Icon SandalTory Burch Fleming Soft Metallic Quilt Mini Chain ToteKendra Scott Daphne Drop Earrings

Melanie wears an orange dress with turquoise accessories | 40plusstyle.com

Melanie @melanie.rae.miller above opts for an orange tiered dress with turquoise.

Recreate outfit with this similar halter dress, sandals and clutch.

10. Embrace orange prints

Combining bold orange hues with unique prints is a very effortless approach to putting together a visually interesting look, with enough of a bright dimension to lighten up your look.

Orange printed clothes and accessories | 40plusstyle.com

Liverpool Los Angeles Coral Blaze Ikat Print Knit TopCala de la Cruz Sonne Apia Striped Linen Maxi Dress& Other Stories Cropped Knit CardiganMELIFLUOS DESIGNED IN SPAIN Paisley ScarfHOBO Jesse Leather Crossbody BagJessica Simpson Prim Ankle Wrap Pointed Toe Sandal

11. Accessorize with orange

Not ready for a full bold display of orange?

You can add the punchy color as a highlight to your look by incorporating as an accessory.

Stylish orange accessories | 40plusstyle.com

Longchamp Large Le Pliage ToteCoiris Statement Necklace and Earrings SetPAIGE Beaded Choker NecklaceGossifan Wide Brim Fedora HatRay-Ban Kiliane Gradient Pillow SunglassesTZ Promise Cashmere Feel Scarf

The orange color combination ideas from above put together in one capsule

Below, you can see the outfits from above together in one capsule. You can see you could easily change the looks around to create different outfits. For example, the orange print shirt would look good with the white pants, you can wear the moto jacket over the asymmetric dress, or the stripe cardigan with any of the pants.

Orange capsule wardrobe | 40plusstyle.com

shop the best orange pieces above here:

Orange outfits inspiration from earlier capsule wardrobes

Below are a few more example of orange inspired outfits. While the items are past season, it should still provide lots of inspiration for your orange outfits.

Orange capsule wardrobe | 40plusstyle.com
Orange capsule wardrobe | 40plusstyle.com
An orange capsule wardrobe | 40plusstyle.com

Want to know how to wear other colors too?

I have created several color guides for popular colors right now:

Do you plan to wear orange this coming season and which color combination is your favorite?

Continue reading:

  1. How To Wear Red – Your Comprehensive Guide On Wearing The Color Of Love!
  2. How To Wear Yellow And Brighten Up Your Day!
  3. How To Wear Green – Which Of These Color Palettes And Outfits Is Your Favorite?

Like this article on how to wear orange? Save it on Pinterest!

How to wear orange | 40plusstyle.com

Feature image by Tanasha @letsrecreatethelook

Sylvia

Sylvia is 40+style’s editor-in-chief and has been helping women find their unique style since 2011. An alumni of the School of Color and Design, she is devoted to empowering women of any age to look and feel their best. Read more about Sylvia and 40+style on this page.

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