Want to become a custom apparel master? Well, young Padawan, there is an aspect of the craft that you must master first:
Color.
You could have the coolest shirt design in the world, but if the color isn’t quite right, your whole project can go south.
We put together 10 of our top tips for color t-shirt printing so you can ensure your next custom apparel design turns out as bright and vibrant as you imagined:
If you want your artwork to really pop on a custom t-shirt, you need to have a strong understanding of color theory. This includes knowing which colors are complementary pairings and which hues create a contrasting effect.
Viewing colors by themselves won’t give you a full understanding of which color combinations will be most effective for your custom apparel designs.
And this is where the color wheel comes in.
This wheel of fun will help you determine which color combinations will work best for your artwork. And after you have your color scheme in mind, you can start playing around with color on your computer.
Here’s a quick overview of the different types of color combinations you can use strategically in your custom apparel designs:
For your designs, we recommend using either complementary or triadic color combinations. These schemes create the most contrast, which will make your artwork really stand out on a t-shirt.
There’s nothing wrong with looking at the work of other creative visionaries to fuel inspiration for your own ideas.
Of course, you want your color schemes to be unique, but looking at the way other designers pair colors together can show you how you can apply different color schemes to your own artwork.
If you’re looking for inspiration, spend some time browsing other artists’ work on Pinterest or Behance.
Check out our article: 3 Tools to Make Color Theory Easier Than Rocket Science.
First of all, color is subjective. Some people respond differently to color than others.
However, there are color psychology trends you should pay attention to so you can use hues strategically in your designs.
For example, blue is often associated with calmness and serenity, while red represents energy and excitement.
Color psychology can be a great way to add meaning to your artwork.
If you want to create a design that makes people feel happy and excited, try using a color scheme with reds and oranges. On the other hand, if you’re going for a more calming and serene vibe, make a color scheme with blues and greens.
Of course, you don’t have to stick to traditional color associations. If you want to create a design that is unique and eye-catching, try using unexpected color combinations.
Surprising your customers (in a good way) can help you stand out from other brands!
Before you start adding color to your artwork, decide on the overall mood or feeling that you want to convey. This will help you choose colors that work well together and create the right atmosphere.
A mood board is a great way to visually represent the mood or feeling that you want your artwork to convey. To create a mood board, start by gathering images, colors, and textures that you feel represent your desired mood.
If you like working with your hands, you could create a physical mood board on a piece of poster board. You can also create a mood board using an online collage maker like Canva if you prefer to work digitally.
1. Start by gathering images, colors, and textures that you feel represent your desired mood.
2. Arrange the items on a piece of poster board until you are happy with the overall composition.
3. Use glue or tape to attach the items to the poster board.
4. Display your mood board in a place where you will see it often to help keep your color scheme in mind as you work on your design.
1. Start by creating a new project and selecting “Mood board” from the templates.
2. Upload or search for images, colors, and textures that you want to use.
3. Drag and drop the items into place until you are happy with the overall composition.
4. Save and download your mood board to keep it handy as you work on your design.
If you want your t-shirt to match a specific color, it’s best to use a Pantone color. This is because Pantone colors are standardized, so you can be sure that the color you choose will be reproduced accurately when it is printed.
We recommend using the Pantone Matching System (PMS) when choosing colors for your custom apparel project. To choose a color, simply find the PMS color that is the closest match to the hue you want. Then, specify the chosen color when you submit your project to your t-shirt printing company.
We know what you’re thinking. “Why would I use fewer colors if I want my artwork to appear more vibrant?”
While it’s tempting to add a lot of color to your artwork, it’s important to avoid using too many colors. This can make your design look busy and cluttered, which can be overwhelming for people to look at. (In other words, the purpose of your design will get lost in the plethora of color in the artwork.)
By sticking to just a few colors, you can create a design that is both eye-catching and impactful. If you’re screen printing your custom apparel, you will also save money by using fewer colors. It’s a win-win!
If you’re working on a computer, it’s important to calibrate your monitor for color accuracy. This will ensure that the colors you see on your screen are reproduced accurately on your t-shirt.
Monitor calibration is the process of adjusting your monitor’s settings so that the color on your screen is accurate.
There are a few different ways to calibrate your monitor. One option is to use a colorimeter, which is a device that measures color. Another option is to use software that adjusts your monitor’s color settings.
When you calibrate your screen, here are the most important settings to keep in mind:
If you think great t-shirts are a dime a dozen, think again. Not all t-shirts are created equal, and the type of shirt you choose can have a big impact on the overall look of your design.
Here are a few factors to consider when choosing a shirt to print your incredible design on:
If you want your artwork to really stand out, choose a t-shirt color that will create a sense of contrast. For example, if your artwork is mostly dark colors, choose a light-colored t-shirt.
Different fabrics absorb and reflect light in different ways, so some fabrics will make colors appear more vibrant than others.
For example, white or light-colored fabrics tend to make colors appear more vibrant because they reflect more light. Darker fabrics absorb more light, so they can make colors appear less vibrant. (However, if you work with us, we can help you configure your custom apparel project to produce the best results on both light and dark backgrounds!)
So, when you’re choosing fabric for your custom printed apparel, keep in mind how you want the colors to look and how long you want them to last. Choose a fabric that will make the colors pop and one that is durable enough to stand up to wear and tear.
Lower quality fabrics may absorb ink differently, resulting in dull or muted colors. In contrast, higher-quality fabrics can help your prints really pop and appear more vibrant.
Of course, vibrancy isn’t the only factor to consider when choosing a fabric for your custom apparel. You’ll also want to think about the weight, stretch, and feel of the fabric to make sure it’s comfortable and suitable for your needs.
When in doubt, always opt for a higher-quality fabric. It may cost a bit more upfront, but you’ll be much happier with the results.
When you’re exporting your artwork for printing, make sure to use the correct color settings. This will ensure that your colors are reproduced accurately on your t-shirt.
Check out our Free Artwork Preparation Guide for Custom Apparel to learn how to prep your design files for an easy, breezy production process!
As you probably know, each printing method and ink can produce wildly different results.
For vibrant artwork, we recommend using screen printing with plastisol ink. This method will produce colors that are rich, bright, and long-lasting.
Sublimation printing could also be a great choice if you’re looking for super vibrant, full-color designs. However, keep in mind that sublimation can only be used on polyester.
We don’t always recommend using the direct-to-garment (DTG) method for color t-shirt printing. While digital printing can produce vibrant colors, the ink is not as durable as screen printing ink. This means that your design is more likely to fade over time, which isn’t ideal if you want vibrant prints that are also durable.
If you’re not sure which one to use, ask your custom apparel partner for their recommendation.
This goes without saying, but enlisting the help of the right custom apparel partner could make or break your project.
It’s important to work with a custom t-shirt printing company that will actually care about delivering the highest-quality finished product possible.
Color is a delicate matter, but it’s also our jam. Scrappy Apparel specializes in color t-shirt printing, and we’re passionate about helping our customers achieve beautiful prints. We offer a range of printing methods that can help you achieve the durable, vibrant results you’re after.
After all, we want you to have a custom apparel love story, not a custom apparel horror story. (We’ve heard too many of those.)
We also have years of experience printing color t-shirts, so we know what it takes to produce vibrant prints that will make your artwork pop.
Our experts have honed their craft for years, so you can ensure that your artwork is in the best hands in the industry when you submit your project to us.
Why settle for lackluster prints when you can work with us and get access to enterprise-level processes and resources?
Your artwork deserves the best. Work with Scrappy Apparel and get the quality prints you deserve.
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Different colors can evoke different emotions and send different messages, so it's important to choose wisely. But don't worry, we're here to help you out! In this blog post, we'll dive into the psychology behind some of the most common dress shirt colors for guys and give you tips on how to style them to look and feel your best. From job interviews to weddings to nights out with the boys, we've got you covered. So let's get started and make sure you're always looking sharp and feeling confident!
Before we dive in, it's best we go through which colors compliment different skin tones. After all, the color that you wear influences your overall appearance. Choosing the right color has the power to either make you look radiant while wearing an unsuitable color can make you appear rather dull. Here are some guidelines to follow:
If you have fair skin, you'll want to stick to lighter colors, such as pastels, light blues, and soft pinks. Avoid colors that are too bright or bold, as they can wash you out.
If you have medium skin, you can wear a wider range of colors, including darker blues, greens, and purples. You can also experiment with bolder prints and patterns, such as polka dots and paisleys.
If you have dark skin, you can pull off bolder, brighter colors, such as reds, oranges, and yellows. You can also wear darker colors, such as black and navy blue, which provide a nice contrast against your skin tone.
Research has shown that the colors of your clothing can greatly influence both how you feel and how others perceive you. While it may not be necessary to base all of your clothing choices on psychological factors, understanding the impact of color can be valuable. By mastering the psychology of color, you can make informed decisions about what to wear for important events.
White: White is often associated with purity, simplicity, and innocence. It can create a sense of cleanliness and clarity. Wearing white can also convey a sense of sophistication and formality.
Black: Black is often associated with sophistication, elegance, and formality. It can create a sense of power and authority. However, wearing too much black can create a sense of gloom and negativity.
Blue: Blue is often associated with calmness, trustworthiness, and reliability. It is a popular choice for business attire and can help create a sense of professionalism. Studies have shown that wearing blue can have a calming effect on the mind and body.
Red: Wearing red can convey a sense of power and confidence. It is also associated with passion, excitement, and love. Studies have shown that wearing red can increase your heart rate and make you feel more alert and focused.
Green: Green is associated with nature, growth, and balance. It can create a sense of harmony and tranquility. Wearing green can also convey a sense of wealth and success.
Of course, the classic white dress shirt comes first. It's the most versatile shirt and can be worn for pretty much any occasion - from formal events to casual outings. White is the kind of color that can be combined with anything and has the effect of making you look more youthful and energetic. If you're not sure what color shirt to wear on your first workday, white is the color to go.
For a casual look: Pair a white shirt with denim jeans or khaki pants. Leave the shirt untucked and roll up the sleeves for a relaxed, effortless vibe. Add sneakers or loafers to complete the look.
For a business casual look: Tuck a white dress shirt into dress pants or chinos. Add a belt and dress shoes for a polished look. You can also add a blazer for an extra touch of sophistication.
Accessorize: White shirts go well with a variety of accessories, such as cufflinks, ties, and pocket squares. Experiment with different colors and patterns to add a pop of personality to your outfit. Learn how to combine your dress shirts with ties.
Black dress shirts are a classic wardrobe staple that exudes sophistication and style. One of the main advantages of black dress shirts is their versatility. They can be dressed up or down depending on the occasion and can be worn with a range of accessories and colors. Black dress shirts also offer a slimming effect, making the wearer appear more streamlined and put-together. They can be particularly flattering for men who are looking to create a more streamlined silhouette.
Pair with neutral colors: Black dress shirts pair well with neutral colors such as gray, white, and beige. This creates a sleek and sophisticated look.
Accessorize with contrasting colors: Adding pops of contrasting colors such as red or blue through accessories like ties or pocket squares can add interest and depth to your outfit.
Fit is key: Ensure that your black dress shirt fits properly. A well-fitted shirt can make all the difference and create a polished and put-together look.
Similar to white dress shirts, beige offers the same versatility. Beige is a neutral color that coordinates well with other colors and patterns. This makes it easy to pair a beige dress shirt with a variety of different suits, jackets, and trousers. Moreover, beige can dress up your outfit and give you a more polished look. In fact, beige dress shirts are a popular choice for business attire and can help to project an image of confidence and competence.
Classic look idea: You can pair a beige shirt with navy blue or black dress pants and a pair of dress shoes for a classic, sophisticated look. This combination is ideal for business meetings or formal events.
Casual Look: For a more casual look, pair a beige shirt with khaki pants or jeans. This combination works well for casual outings or weekend events.
Bright Colors: Beige is a neutral color that works well with brighter colors. Consider pairing a beige shirt with a brightly colored blazer or sweater to add a pop of color to your outfit.
Light blue is a popular color for dress shirts because it is universally flattering and can complement a range of skin tones. Moreover, it has great combination potential and goes well with many colors. Just like grey, it has a calming and soothing effect, however, it is mainly associated with trust and loyalty - hence why blue is such a great color for work events. Light blue dress shirts also give you a fresh appearance and can make you look more lively.
Pair with a suit: A light blue shirt is a great choice to wear with a suit. It creates a classic and sophisticated look that is perfect for formal occasions such as weddings or business meetings.
Dress it down with chinos: A light blue shirt can also be dressed down by pairing it with a pair of chinos. This creates a more casual look that is perfect for social events or date nights.
Experiment with different patterns and textures: A light blue shirt can be paired with a variety of patterns and textures to create an interesting and unique look. Consider pairing it with a textured blazer or a patterned tie.
In comparison to light blue, navy is a rich and bold color and is considered to be more sophisticated than light blue. It's a color that conveys authority, stability, and confidence, hence why it's a great choice for job interviews or important meetings. Navy is also a great alternative to traditional white or light blue dress shirts and can be worn for both formal and casual occasions.
Pair with Neutral Colors: Navy dress shirts pair well with neutral colors like grey, black, and white. They create a classic and timeless look that is appropriate for both formal and casual occasions.
Complement with Lighter Colors: Navy dress shirts can be complemented with lighter colors like beige, light blue, or pink. This creates a balanced and harmonious look that is perfect for spring and summer.
Add a Pop of Color: Navy dress shirts can also be paired with bold and bright colors to add a pop of color to your outfit. For example, you could wear a navy dress shirt with a red tie or pocket square to create a striking contrast.
Now, gents, pink isn't just for the ladies. In fact, pink can have a massive positive influence on your outfit and is sure to make you stand out from the crowd. Pink is associated with confidence, playfulness, and creativity, making it a great choice for those who want to make a statement. If you're a stylish guy, you'd want to add pink to your closet, as it's a fashionable choice and frequently seen in men's fashion.
Match the Occasion: When wearing a pink dress shirt, it's important to match the occasion. For formal events, pair your pink dress shirt with a suit and tie. For more casual occasions, you can wear it with jeans or chinos and a blazer.
Add a Pop of Color: Pink shirts can also be paired with bold and bright colors to add a pop of color to your outfit. For example, you could wear a pink shirt with a green tie or pocket square to create a striking contrast.
Pair with Neutral Colors: Pink shirts pair well with neutral colors like grey, beige, and navy.
Complement with Lighter Colors: Pink shirts can be complemented with lighter colors like white, light blue, or cream. This creates a balanced and harmonious look that is perfect for spring and summer.
Do you want to grab people's attention? Then a red dress shirt is your best friend. When it comes to fashion, people often perceive those wearing red as confident, assertive, and bold. Fun fact, studies have shown that t wearing red clothing can make people perceive us as more dominant and powerful. This can be particularly advantageous in professional settings where confidence and assertiveness are valued. Individuals with cool undertones may look better in blue-reds, while those with warm undertones may look better in orange-reds. It's also worth considering the intensity of the red - individuals with fair skin may look better in lighter or softer shades of red, while those with deeper skin tones may be able to pull off bold, saturated shades.
Choose the right shade: There are many shades of red, from bright and bold to darker and more subdued. Consider your skin tone and the occasion when choosing the right shade for you.
Pair it with neutral colors: Red is a bold color, so it's best to pair it with neutral colors like black, white, gray, or navy. This will balance out the boldness of the red and make it more wearable.
Keep the rest of your outfit simple: When wearing a red dress shirt, it's best to keep the rest of your outfit simple and understated. Avoid bold patterns or colors that clash with red.
Green is associated with nature, freshness, and relaxation, making it a great option for spring and summer events. In the business world, green dress shirts are often associated with innovation and creativity. They convey a sense of forward-thinking and a willingness to take risks, making them a great choice for professionals in industries such as technology, marketing, or design. When choosing a green shirt, consider your skin tone. If you have warm undertones, shades like olive or moss green may complement your complexion better, while those with cooler undertones may prefer shades like mint or emerald green.
For a casual look: Pair a light green dress shirt with khaki pants or jeans. Add brown leather shoes and a brown belt for a cohesive look.
For a business casual look: Wear a medium green dress shirt with navy dress pants or chinos. Add a brown or black leather belt and dress shoes to complete the look.
For a formal look: Choose a dark green dress shirt and pair it with a black suit and dress shoes. Add a black tie or bowtie for a classic look.
For a patterned shirt: If your green dress shirt has a pattern, like stripes or checks, keep the rest of your outfit simple. Choose pants and accessories in solid colors that complement the pattern on the shirt.
Every man's wardrobe should have a selection of essential dress shirt colors. These colors are timeless, versatile, and suitable for a variety of occasions:
Pro tip: Invest in quality shirts in these colors: Hockerty made to measure shirts, for example ;) They're foundational pieces that you'll wear time and again.
Looking for shirts that can transition from the office to a dinner date effortlessly? Consider these shades:
Styling Tip: To maximize versatility, focus on fit. A well-fitted shirt in a versatile color is your ticket to a polished look no matter the occasion.
When dressing for the office, you want to appear professional yet stylish. These colors strike the right balance:
Note: When selecting a color, consider your office environment. Creative industries might allow for more playful colors, while traditional fields might prefer subdued tones.
In the world of business, first impressions matter. Opting for professional dress shirt colors can make all the difference:
Insider Tip: When aiming for a professional look, prioritize the shirt's material and fit over color. A well-fitted shirt in a muted shade will always look professional.
For formal events, whether it's a gala or a black-tie wedding, certain shirt colors stand out:
Golden Rule: For formal events, it's not just about the color but also about the overall ensemble. Ensure your shirt complements your suit, tie, and accessories for a cohesive look.
The color of your dress shirt is not only about psychology and perception but also about style. Choosing the right color can elevate your outfit and help you express your personality. Each color has its own unique style and can make a statement. Whether you prefer a classic white shirt for a timeless and elegant look or a bold blue shirt for a pop of color, the color of your dress shirt can add a touch of flair to your outfit. Don't be afraid to experiment with different colors and patterns to find the perfect dress shirt to match your style and occasion. With these tips and a bit of confidence, you'll be able to rock any color and create a look that's uniquely you.
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