Yes, you absolutely can wear red with black and white. In fact, red, black and white is a classic and stylish color combination that works for many occasions. When styled well, this color trio can look elegant, edgy, casual or dressy. Here is a complete guide on wearing red with black and white successfully.
Why Red, Black and White Works
There are a few key reasons why red, black and white make a great color scheme:
- High Contrast – The high visual contrast between these bold, saturated colors creates a striking, eye-catching look.
- Color Psychology – Red conveys energy, passion and excitement. Black is sophisticated and powerful. White represents purity, cleanliness and neutrality.
- Flexibility – This palette can be styled in both casual and formal ways for versatility.
- Flattering – The high contrast flatters different skin tones and hair colors.
- Timeless – As primary colors, this combination has enduring, classic appeal.
Tips for Wearing Red, Black and White
Follow these tips to get the most out of this color scheme:
- Use one color as a focal point. For example, make red the star and accent with black and white.
- Add neutrals like nude, gray or tan to soften the look.
- Trade bright red for burgundy or oxblood for a more sophisticated vibe.
- Pair with metallics like gold, silver or rose gold for extra polish.
- Mix matte and shiny textures for visual interest.
- Scale back loud prints and patterns if combining all three colors.
- Anchor an all-red outfit with black and white accessories.
- Use white to lighten and brighten too much black.
Red, Black & White Outfit Ideas
Here are some chic ways to wear this color combination for different occasions:
Casual Daytime
- Red t-shirt + black jeans + white sneakers
- Black top + red skirt + white denim jacket
- White button-down + red shorts + black loafers
Workwear
- Red blazer + black pants/skirt + white blouse
- Black dress + red belt + white pumps
- White pants + black blazer + red heels
Night Out
- Little red dress + black heels + white clutch
- Black jumpsuit + red kimono + white platforms
- White maxi dress + red lipstick + black heels
Casual Weekend
- Black jeans + white tee + red flannel
- Red hoodie + black leggings + white sneakers
- White cami + black shorts + red slides
How to Wear All Red, Black or White
You can also wear all one color for a bold, graphic look. Here’s how to pull off monochromatic red, black or white:
All Red Outfits
- Shades like cherry, crimson or burgundy are chic.
- Mix textures and fabric weights – leather, suede, linen, silk.
- Add metallic shoes, bag or jewelry as an accent.
- Anchor with neutral coat or accessories.
All Black Outfits
- A black suit or LBD is a foolproof choice.
- Play with textures – velvet, lace, satin, wool.
- Pop in red lipstick or nails.
- Choose silver, pewter or gunmetal jewelry.
All White Outfits
- Crisp white button-down with jeans or trousers.
- Summery white sundress.
- Add pops of color with accessories.
- Anchor with nude heels and bag.
How to Mix Prints & Patterns
Prints can look amazing with red, black and white. Here’s how to mix them successfully:
- Anchor busy patterns with solids.
- If combining 3+ prints, keep the color scheme limited.
- Make one print the star and use sparingly.
- Scale up or down one print for cohesion.
- Repeat colors from one print into the next print.
Recommended Prints & Patterns
- Polka dots
- Stripes
- Plaid
- Floral
- Houndstooth
- Paisley
Fashion Rules to Break
Some old fashion “rules” say you shouldn’t mix red, black and white. Feel free to break them!
- “Don’t wear black and brown together” – Black and red is a chic combo!
- “Don’t mix patterns” – Thoughtful print mixing creates visual interest.
- “Don’t wear white after labor day” – Wear it year-round!
Celebrity Inspiration
Look to stylish celebs for ways to rock red, black and white:
| Celebrity | Outfit |
|---|---|
| Rihanna | Red mini dress + black heels + white jacket |
| Kendall Jenner | White tee + black leggings + red lipstick |
| Gigi Hadid | Black jeans + white off-the-shoulder top + red moto jacket |
| Meghan Markle | Red coat + black dress + white bag |
| Blake Lively | White blazer + black pants + red heels |
Conclusion
Red, black and white is a classic, foolproof color combination that works for all ages and occasions. Feel free to experiment by making one color the focal point, adding neutrals, playing with textures and mixing prints. Ignore outdated “fashion rules” and take inspiration from stylish celebs to create chic, eye-catching outfits with this versatile color palette.