When it comes to decorating and color palettes, purple is often overlooked. But this vibrant hue can be used to create a wide range of stunning eye-catching designs. From lavender to magenta, there are plenty of shades of purple that can add a touch of luxury and sophistication to any room. But when it comes to pairing the perfect colors with your favorite shade of purple, it can be a bit tricky. In this comprehensive guide, we will explore the best colors to complement purple and provide you with some helpful tips to get you started.
Understanding the Color Wheel
Before we dive into the best colors to pair with purple, it’s important to understand the basics of color theory. The color wheel is a visual representation of the primary, secondary, and tertiary colors. Primary colors (red, blue, and yellow) are the foundation of color theory and cannot be made from other colors. Secondary colors (green, orange, and purple) are created by mixing two primary colors together. Tertiary colors are created by mixing a primary and a secondary color together. This knowledge is essential in order to create beautiful color palettes.
Shades of Purple
When it comes to purple, there are many different shades to choose from. On one end of the spectrum, there is a light and airy lavender, while on the other end, there is a deeper, richer eggplant color. Depending on the shade of purple you choose, you may need to adjust the colors you pair it with in order to create a harmonious color palette.
Classic Colors That Go With Purple
Reds
When it comes to pairing colors with purple, red can be an excellent choice.
Red is a primary color and is directly across from green on the color wheel.
When put together, these two colors create a vibrant and energetic palette.
If you use a lighter shade of purple such as lavender or lilac, pair it with a brighter and more vibrant red such as cherry or scarlet.
For a deeper shade of purple like eggplant, opt for a darker and more muted red such as burgundy or maroon.
Oranges
Another great color to pair with purple is orange. Mixing red and yellow creates orange, which is a secondary color.
It is directly across from blue on the color wheel and creates a warm and inviting atmosphere when paired with purple.
When using a lighter shade of purple, opt for a brighter and more vibrant orange such as tangerine or coral.
For a deeper shade of purple, choose a darker and more muted orange such as terra cotta or burnt sienna.
Yellows
People often use yellow, a primary color, to bring a bright and cheerful vibe to any space.
When paired with purple, yellow can create a dynamic and eye-catching palette.
If you use a lighter shade of purple, opt for a brighter and more vibrant yellow such as lemon or daffodil.
For a deeper shade of purple, choose a darker and more muted yellow such as mustard or ochre.
Greens
Green is a secondary color created by mixing blue and yellow.
It is directly across from red on the color wheel and can create a cool and calming atmosphere when used with purple.
When using a lighter shade of purple, opt for a brighter and more vibrant green such as lime or chartreuse.
For a deeper shade of purple, choose a darker and more muted green such as olive or forest.
Blues
People often use blue, a primary color, to create a calm and relaxing atmosphere.
When paired with purple, blue can create a beautiful and tranquil palette.
If you use a lighter shade of purple, opt for a brighter and more vibrant blue such as teal or turquoise.
For a deeper shade of purple, choose a darker and more muted blue such as navy or steel.
Neutrals Colors That Go With Purple
Neutral colors can also be used to create a beautiful and harmonious color palette when paired with purple.
Neutral colors such as grey, white, and black can help to tone down a vivid color palette and bring a sense of balance.
- White: White is a classic neutral color that creates a clean and fresh contrast with purple. It enhances the vibrancy of purple shades and adds a sense of purity to the overall look.
- Gray: Gray is a versatile neutral color that pairs well with almost any color, including purple. It can create a modern and elegant aesthetic when combined with different shades of purple.
- Beige: Beige is a warm and earthy neutral color that works harmoniously with purple. It provides a soft and subtle backdrop, allowing the purple tones to stand out.
- Cream: Cream is a creamy off-white neutral color that adds warmth and softness to purple. It creates a cozy and inviting atmosphere when used together.
- Taupe: Taupe is a sophisticated neutral color that blends well with purple. It offers a balance between gray and brown tones, creating a refined and timeless color combination.
When using a lighter shade of purple, opt for a brighter and more vibrant neutral such as ivory or cream.
For a deeper shade of purple, choose a darker and more muted neutral such as charcoal or slate.
Metallics Colors That Go With Purple
Metallic colors such as gold, silver, and bronze can also be used to create a beautiful and elegant color palette when used with purple.
- Gold: Gold is another popular metallic color that pairs well with purple. It creates a luxurious and regal look when combined with purple tones.
- Silver: Silver is a versatile metallic color that complements purple beautifully. It adds a touch of elegance and sophistication to the color combination.
- Copper: Copper is a warm metallic color that adds a rustic and earthy feel to purple. It creates a unique and intriguing contrast when used together.
- Bronze: Bronze is a rich metallic color that works well with purple. It adds depth and warmth to the color palette, creating a striking visual impact.
- Rose Gold: Rose gold is a trendy metallic color that harmonizes beautifully with purple. It offers a delicate and feminine touch, creating a romantic and glamorous ambiance.
Metallics can help to add a touch of glamour and sophistication to any space.
When using a lighter shade of purple, opt for a brighter and more vibrant metallic such as rose gold or copper.
For a deeper shade of purple, choose a darker and more muted metallic such as gunmetal or antique gold.
Final Thoughts
Purple is an incredibly versatile color that can be used to create a variety of beautiful and eye-catching color palettes. When it comes to pairing colors with purple, there are many options to choose from. Reds, oranges, yellows, greens, blues, neutrals, and metallics can all be used to create stunning designs. By understanding the basics of color theory and experimenting with different shades and hues, you can create a unique and beautiful color palette that perfectly complements your favorite shade of purple.