How to use Yellow with confidence: Some tips for interiors and wardrobe

Yellow is the most cheerful colours of all , the colour of sunshine, optimism, and energy—but it’s also a tricky one to get just right.

Although Drew Barrymore now has her own Pantone yellow, it is still rare to find in modern decor. Why is that? Maybe it's because yellow is so bold and adventurous and when styling your home or wardrobe, a little too much or the wrong shade can quickly go from radiant to overwhelming.

I live in a Georgian home, built in 1910 and I am so grateful to still have the original pressed ceiling in my bedroom. To celebrate this beautiful part of my home, I decided to paint the pressed ceiling in a soft daffodil yellow and I love it! It brings me joy when I wake up and when my bedside table lamp is on at night and my heavy mustard curtains are closed, I feel like in a little nest!

Some might say it is daring, but sometimes you have to get out of your comfort zone, to reap the joy of your home and wardrobe !

To help you embrace this vibrant hue with confidence, here are five common mistakes to avoid when using yellow in your interiors and wardrobe, plus some color combination ideas to inspire you!

Using Yellow in Your Home

1/Going Too Bold Without Balance

A bright yellow wall or ceiling can be fun, but without grounding elements, it can feel chaotic. Pair yellow with calming tones like white, gray, dusty pinks, or earthy hues for harmony.

If you’re unsure, start small—use yellow in accessories like cushions, vases, or lamps.

Try These Combinations:
Yellow + Soft Gray – Modern and sophisticated.
Yellow + Navy Blue – A striking and balanced contrast.
Yellow + Deep Green – Earthy and grounding.
Yellow + Dusty Pink – Warm and inviting.

See more yellow interior inspiration here

2/Choosing the Wrong Shade for the Lighting

Lighting can drastically change how yellow appears.

Bright yellow works best in naturally lit spaces, while mustard and ochre tones feel cozier in dimmer rooms. Always test a sample in different lighting before committing.

3/Overloading a Small Space

Yellow can brighten and visually expand a room, but too much can be overwhelming. Use it as an accent—in a statement chair, artwork, or a single painted wall—to keep the balance.

4/Forgetting Undertones

Warm yellows (golden, mustard) add coziness, while cool yellows (lemon, pastel) bring freshness. Choose based on the mood you want to create and stick to a cohesive color palette.

5/Not Testing Before Committing

Yellow is unpredictable! Always test paint samples or fabrics in different lighting and against your existing decor before making a final decision.

Wearing Yellow in Your Wardrobe

1/ Wearing the Wrong Shade for Your Skin Tone

Not all yellows work for everyone! Soft buttery yellows flatter warm skin tones, while cool lemon yellows pop on cooler skin tones. Not your best shade? Wear it away from your face—think skirts, shoes, or handbags—or add a colorful scarf that complements your complexion.

Try These Combinations

Yellow + White – Fresh and effortless.
Yellow + Camel – Classic and elegant.
Yellow + Black – Bold and edgy.
Yellow + Denim – Casual and fun.

Check out Yellow outfit inspiration here

2/ Going All-Yellow (Unless You Mean To!)

Head-to-toe yellow can be overpowering. Instead, anchor yellow with neutrals like white, navy, or camel for a chic, balanced look.

3/ Ignoring Accessories

If yellow clothing feels too bold, introduce it in accessories—scarves, handbags, or statement earrings can brighten up any outfit without being overwhelming.

4/ Not Considering the Occasion

Bright yellow screams fun and energy, while mustard and deep golds feel more sophisticated. Choose your shade based on the mood and setting you want to create.

5/ Forgetting to Anchor It

Yellow works best when balanced with structured or classic pieces, like a tailored blazer, crisp white shirt, or dark denim, to keep it looking polished and intentional.

Yellow, when used thoughtfully, can bring warmth, joy, and personality to both your wardrobe and your home. Whether you’re painting a wall, picking a statement piece, or adding a pop of color to your outfit, balance and thoughtful combinations are key.

And if you have an Interior project to tackle or you are challenged by a colour scheme..or you just want to explore new ways to wear yellow, Let’s chat!