Finding the perfect prom dress is an exciting rite of passage for any high school student. With so many options to choose from, it can be challenging to select a dress that complements your skin tone. If you have tan or olive skin, you’ll want to find colors that enhance your gorgeous glow.
Certain colors tend to look best on warmer skin tones. By understanding which shades flatter tan skin, you can pick out a show-stopping prom dress you’ll look beautiful in.
The Best Prom Dress Colors for Tan Skin
Here are some of the top prom dress color options to consider if you have tan or olive skin:
- Emerald green
- Royal blue
- Gold
- Red
- Pink
- Purple
- Orange
- Coral
Rich, jewel-toned colors tend to complement warmer skin tones beautifully. Colors like emerald green, sapphire blue, and ruby red make tan skin glow. Metallic shades like gold and champagne are also extremely flattering.
Vibrant pinks, oranges, and corals add a fun pop of color and accentuate tan skin. Soft pastel shades can work too, but be sure to avoid colors like baby pink or mint green that may wash you out.
Avoiding Unflattering Colors
Just as important as choosing colors that flatter is avoiding hues that do your skin tone no favors. Here are some colors tan girls may want to stay away from:
- Pure white
- Silver
- Light or icy pink
- Pale blue
- Yellow
- Lavender
- Mint green
Pure white has a tendency to look harsh on darker skin. Icy, cool-toned colors like silver, light pink, and mint green can also wash you out. Yellow often does not pair well with olive undertones.
The key is to avoid colors that starkly contrast with your skin, instead choosing shades that harmonize with your lovely tan.
Factors to Consider
When selecting a prom dress color for tan skin, here are some additional factors to keep in mind:
- Undertones – Are your undertones more warm/golden or cool/olive? This will help guide you to more harmonious colors.
- Hair Color – Your hair color can impact what hues look best. Brunettes, for example, can pull off deeper tones more easily.
- Makeup – The makeup you plan to wear (especially lips) should complement your dress shade.
- Eye Color – Certain dress colors can really make your eye color pop!
- Location/Venue – A color that really stands out inside could look washed out in outdoor photos.
You want your makeup, hair, accessories, and dress to all work together seamlessly. When in doubt, bring a few friends shopping to get a second opinion!
23 Dress Color Suggestions for Tan Skin Tones
Here are 23 gorgeous prom dress colors that will look amazing with tan skin:
| Color | Why It Works |
|---|---|
| Emerald Green | Deep and rich jewel tone that makes tan glow |
| Royal Blue | Striking blue hue complements warm tones |
| Red | Timeless red enhances tan skin beautifully |
| Coral | Fun, bright coral flatters olive complexions |
| Purple | Regal purple hue looks great on brunettes |
| Navy | Classic navy elongates and slims the silhouette |
| Champagne | Shimmering metallic champagne is elegant |
| Orange | Vibrant orange complements and brightens tan |
| Burgundy | Deep burgundy enhances darker tan skin |
| Gold | Beautiful gold dresses shine on warm complexions |
| Blush Pink | Soft pink flatters light olive skin |
| Yellow | Sunny yellow looks lively on golden undertones |
| Turquoise | Cool turquoise pops against warm tan |
| Lilac | Pale purple lilac complements tan with pink undertones |
| Fuchsia | Vibrant fuchsia flatters and energizes tan |
| Silver | Metallic silver adds shine for deeper tan |
| Forest Green | Deep green brings out golden glow in tan |
| Chocolate Brown | Rich brown looks sophisticated on olive skin |
| Plum | Jewel-toned plum pops against warm complexions |
| Peach | Delicate peach looks feminine and elegant |
| Sapphire Blue | Bold sapphire blue enhances tan skin |
| Taupe | Subtle taupe gray beautifully complements tan |
Complementary Styles for Your Dress
Once you’ve selected the perfect prom dress color, you’ll want to coordinate the rest of your look for a cohesive palette. Here are some tips:
- Choose a hairstyle that complements your dress – an elegant updo works nicely with long styles.
- Select makeup that enhances your features and plays up your glow.
- Look for shoes that tie into the color scheme. Metallic shoes are a fun option!
- Pick jewelry like earrings and a necklace that integrate with the dress shade.
- Accessorize with a clutch, shawl, corsage, or other accents in colors that work together.
You want your entire prom look to come together seamlessly. Experiment to find shades and styles that all integrate while accentuating your natural beauty.
Conclusion
Finding a prom dress in a flattering color is the perfect way to look and feel your absolute best on the big night. When you have tan or olive skin, opt for rich shades like emerald, sapphire, and ruby hues. Avoid stark brights or pale icy colors that can clash. Consider your undertones and coordinate your accessories for a cohesive look. Most importantly, have fun selecting your dress and dazzle in a shade that celebrates your inner radiance!
