The Use of Color in Emily In Paris's Outfits

"Emily in Paris" has style for days. From the show's overall aesthetic to Emily Cooper's wardrobe, it perfectly blends contemporary American and Parisian fashion. However, as season four debuts, we see Emily in outfits with a bit more French influence. While the silhouettes have evolved slightly, the use of bright colors maintains the consistency of Emily’s look. The vibrant hues, including pops of yellow, purple, and red, are more American, creating a lively and bold appearance.

The use of bright colors, intricate details, and bold patterns gives Emily her signature look, one that fans eagerly replicate. If you're curious about the color combinations she’s often styled in, we’ve rounded up our favorites below. Also, consider whether you prefer analogous or complementary color pairings.

Complementary pairings involve opposite colors on the color wheel, creating a brighter ‘pop.’ These are the combinations often chosen by Marilyn Fitoussi, the costume designer for "Emily in Paris." Occasionally, an analogous color scheme will appear—these looks are usually more muted and can be monochromatic since they involve colors that sit next to each other on the color wheel.

1. Yellow and Purple 

One look that immediately comes to mind with this pairing is Emily mixing a yellow blazer with over-the-knee purple boots. Yellow and purple are a classic complementary color pairing that can really pop, and in this outfit, all eyes are on Emily. You can play with this pairing at home too, but mixing purple tones with gold details for a more muted but equally fun look.  

2. Red and Green (or green and pink!) 

Vibrant reds and greens shouldn’t just be thought of during the holiday season, instead, take a style note from Emily’s book and mix these colors together in separates or patterns for an extra pop to your outfit. At times the red tones almost give way to pink, but the look always ends up being timeless and fun. 

3. Red and Black 

Emily is already breaking a traditional style rule by wearing as much red as she does. For decades, redheads have often been told that they should stay away from this bright color that twins with their hair. The reason behind this rule has never been clear and for Emily, fashion rules are just meant to be broken. As mentioned above, she pairs plenty of bright reds with greens, but red and black are another color pairing she often uses. This is a little more traditionally French, but as she does it in mixed patterns it becomes very Emily.