As fashion enthusiasts, VALLEY loves to experiment with different colors and patterns to create the perfect outfit. But sometimes, despite our best wishes, some color combinations just don’t work. So, why does this happen? Why do some combinations clash, but not others? It’s all because of a visual illusion called chromostereopsis.
What is Chromostereopsis?
Chromostereopsis is a visual illusion that occurs when certain colors are placed alongside each other, making it unnecessarily difficult to focus on both colors.
The spatial relationship between colors can sometimes cause certain combinations to appear visually imbalanced. A big part of fashion isn’t just about clothing but also color combinations. It’s important to understand how different colors interact with one another in order to create a look that’s both fashionable and visually stunning.
One common example of chromostereopsis is the way that certain color fonts are typed on a page. For instance, imagine you’re seeing a line of red words and a line of blue words. You may notice that one color seems to “pop out” at you and the other color doesn’t stand out as much. Another person might see the opposite color sticking out to them. This is because when two or more colors are placed side-by-side, our brains interpret the colors as having different depths which causes some colors to stand out more than others.
Why Do Some People Dislike My Outfit Combinations?
Have you ever wondered why some people compliment your outfit and others say it’s “too busy”? This is because the effect of chromostereopsis can vary from person to person, and it all depends on pupil size. In fact, people with larger pupils tend to experience chromostereopsis more strongly than those with smaller pupils. This means that if you have larger pupils, you’re eyes are probably more sensitive to color clashes. Not only do you dislike the combination, but it actually appears imbalanced to you and throws you off. This difference in perception can explain why some people love certain color combinations while others find them unpleasant.
If you’re trying to avoid the effects of chromostereopsis, you may want to refrain from pairing colors that have strong contrasts like yellow and black. To reduce the risk of color clashing, try combining colors that are similar in tone, such as different shades of blue or neutrals.
Photo by @nayaelizabethh on Instagram 
Photo by @nayaelizabethh on Instagram
Understanding the science behind chromostereopsis can help us make more informed decisions about what to wear. While trying out new color combinations and patterns, take note of how they make you feel. If you receive any criticism, keep chromostereopsis in mind and remember that everyone sees things differently. Always remember that the goal of fashion is to create a look that YOU love and are confident in. If you feel great, wear it! Good luck creating outfits!
Be sure to tag us on Instagram @VALLEYmag to show us your favorite outfit combinations and styles!
