Red is having a moment, and I am here for it! When thinking about how to style red for fall, I realized I tend to reach for the same colors: black, white, navy, or camel. They’re easy, classic choices that help tone down such a bold color.
But red doesn’t always need to play it safe! There are so many other colors that make it feel fresh and fun. So I shopped my closet and came up with six slightly unexpected ways to wear red this fall. Hopefully they’ll inspire you to try a new color combination too!
Red + Pink: A Bold and Playful Pairing
Red and pink used to be considered colors you shouldn’t wear together. Thankfully, those outdated fashion rules are long gone! This is one of my favorite combinations because it’s bright, cheerful, and impossible to ignore.
I paired my red turtleneck sweater with hot pink trousers and leopard heels. The leopard print adds another layer of interest without competing with the bold colors.
Style tip: When combining two bright colors, keep the silhouettes relatively simple. Let the colors make the statement!
Sweater | Pants | Heels
Red + Chocolate Brown: Rich and Unexpected
Chocolate brown has become such a popular color, and I love how it looks paired with bright red. Brown feels a little softer than black, but it still provides a beautiful contrast.
For this outfit, I paired my red sweater with chocolate brown faux leather wide-leg pants and casual sneakers. The leather texture adds interest, while the sneakers keep everything relaxed.
I especially love this combination for fall because the brown brings in those rich autumn tones without making the outfit feel too dark.
Style tip: Try mixing textures when pairing red and brown. Leather, suede, knits, and corduroy can make a simple two-color outfit feel much more interesting.
Sweater | Pants | Sneakers
Red + Light Blue: An Unexpected Favorite
This might be one of the most surprising combinations of the bunch! Light blue is usually associated with spring, but I think it looks beautiful with red during the cooler months too.
I paired my red turtleneck with light blue wide-leg trousers and neutral heels. The pale blue softens the intensity of the red without dulling it.
There’s something fresh and modern about this combination. It’s also a great reminder that you don’t have to put away all your lighter colors when fall arrives.
Style tip: Pair a bold color with a softer pastel to create contrast without making the outfit feel overwhelming.
Sweater | Light blue trousers | Heels | Belt
Red + Burgundy: A Sophisticated Fall Combination
Who says you can’t wear different shades of red together? Burgundy and bright red create a rich combination that feels especially appropriate for fall.
I paired my red wide-leg trousers with a burgundy blouse featuring beautiful lace sleeves. The deeper burgundy balances the brightness of the pants, while the sleeve details add texture. I finished the outfit with burgundy heels to tie everything together.
This combination feels a little more sophisticated than some of the others, making it a great option for work or dinner out.
Style tip: When mixing shades from the same color family, choose noticeably different tones. The contrast will look intentional rather than like you tried to match and missed.
Sweater | Red Trousers | Heels
Red + Gray: A Classic With a Twist
Okay, gray might not be the most unexpected color to pair with red. But it’s a combination I don’t reach for nearly as often as black or navy.
I styled my red wide-leg trousers with a charcoal gray sweater layered over a striped collared shirt. Then I added leopard heels for a little extra personality.
I love how the gray tones down the brightness of the pants while the leopard print keeps the outfit from feeling too predictable.
Style tip: If a color combination feels too simple, add a patterned accessory. Leopard print works surprisingly well with red and acts almost like a neutral.
Blouse | Sweater | Red Trousers | Heels
Red + Red: Make a Statement
Sometimes the best way to wear a bold color is to embrace it completely! For my final outfit, I paired my red turtleneck with matching red wide-leg trousers. A coordinating belt and neutral heels complete the look.
I love how polished and put-together a monochromatic outfit can feel. And even though I’m wearing red from head to toe, the simple silhouettes keep it from looking overwhelming.
This is definitely a statement outfit, but sometimes that’s exactly what I’m in the mood for!
Style tip: When wearing one color from head to toe, use accessories or different textures to add dimension. You don’t need an exact color match for a monochromatic outfit to work.
Sweater | Red trousers | Heels | Belt
Conclusion: How to Style Red for Fall
Putting these outfits together reminded me how much fun it can be to experiment with color! I tend to fall into the habit of reaching for the same tried-and-true combinations, especially when I’m getting dressed in a hurry. But sometimes the most unexpected pairings turn out to be my favorites.
Whether you love the bold combination of red and pink, the softer contrast of red and light blue, or the richness of red and burgundy, there are so many ways to make this color work for your personal style. And the best part? I created all six outfits using pieces I already owned!
Hopefully these ideas inspire you to look at your closet a little differently the next time you’re wondering how to style red for fall.
Now I’m curious! Which of these six color combinations is your favorite? And is there another color you love pairing with red that I should try?
Last week’s favorite post was from Marsha at Marsha in the Middle with a beautiful burgundy dress.
Between Naps on the Porch | I do de Claire | Walking in Memphis in High Heels & The Fashion Canvas | Tuesday Twirl | My Slices of Life | The Style Splash | Curated by Jennifer | Mummabstylish | Shelbee On the Edge | Nancy’s Fashion Style | Momfessionals | Marsha in the Middle
