When people bring two colors together in design, they often choose something safe. Plenty of color combinations are used over and over again because they look good and are known to receive positive reactions. While it’s perfectly fine to decorate within the color norms, you shouldn’t be afraid to try something different if you feel like it.
There are approximately 10 million colors in the world, so imagine how many color combinations are possible. Each color has so many tints, shades, and mixtures to choose from, so the same colors don’t always have to be paired together. People like to stick with what makes the most sense, such as colors next to each other on the color wheel or a neutral with a peaceful color like blue. Yet, sometimes, colors go well together even when they don’t seem like they should.
With the proper design techniques, colors on opposite sides of the color wheel or of varying intensities could complement each other well. If you want to get creative with colors, start thinking outside the box and consider some of the following unexpected combinations.
1. Teal & Red
Teal and red are both bold, eye-catching colors. Even though red is a vibrant, energetic color while teal is a cool, calming color, they weirdly work. They’re not directly across from each other on the color wheel, but they definitely aren’t near each other. So, they provide a unique contrast that helps each color stand out in a positive way. To ensure the two colors don’t clash with each other, use different amounts of each one, such as a little bit of red near a wall full of teal or vice versa.
2. Coral & Emerald Green
Green and coral are another example of two colors that are far away from each other on the color wheel but still complement each other well. Despite looking so different, they both bring life and energy to a space. Having a small area of one next to a large amount of the other, such as a coral chair next to a green wall, makes the colors pop, creating a pleasant design. While emerald green seems to work best, other types of green, like olive green or mint green, could work well too.
3. Orange & Dark Blue
People often avoid complementary colors (colors on opposite sides of the color wheel) because they can become overwhelming in certain situations. However, they can bring out the best in each other when used correctly. The overall look may be too vibrant when combining light blue with orange, so orange typically works best with dark blue like navy. Using lots of dark blue next to a section of orange can make both colors pop without being hard to look at. Some great examples of this would be a navy dress with an orange belt or a dark blue couch with orange decorative pillows. If you’re still worried about the colors being too contrasting, you can add some neutral colors to split up the blue and orange a bit.
4. Green, Red, & Brown
Red and green are another example of a complementary color combo that can work in certain scenarios. For many people, red and green make them think of Christmas, so adding a third color, like brown, can prevent people from associating the design with the holidays. Like orange and blue, you need to balance the colors out in your design. If you use an equal amount of both red and green, it might feel like the two colors are fighting against each other. Since red is the more vibrant of the two, it should probably be used in smaller amounts. For example, you could have a dark green wall with red curtains or red flowers near a green bedspread. Then, you can add some brown to the design to divide the two colors ever so slightly.
5. Lime Green & Yellow
Even though lime green and yellow are very close to each other on the color wheel, many people are hesitant to use them together because they’re both very bright. Yet, since they’re so similar, they can create a lively design that’s cohesive while being unique. If you want to tone down the colors a bit, you can try using a slightly darker version of green as the main color and then using yellow as the accent color. You could also add some white to make the design easier on the eyes.
6. Purple & Light Green
Purple and yellow are complementary colors that might contrast too much, so using light green, which is near yellow on the color wheel, could be a great alternative. Green and purple together create a dramatic appearance, which is usually an ideal fit for someone who wants to feel like royalty. Both colors pop slightly when near each other, but not so much that it’s distracting. A great way to design with these colors is to use purple for furniture and decorations and then add lots of green plants throughout the space.
7. Orange & Light Green
In most contexts, orange is seen as a bold, vibrant color, but when paired with light green, it gives off a summery, earthy tone. It reminds people of oranges with green leaves on them, which can give off warm, tropical feelings. Since both colors can feel like a lot when side by side, they work best when used in small amounts with a neutral color nearby, such as white or brown. An orange and light green combo can add bits of excitement to an otherwise simple design.
8. Yellow & Gray
Yellow and black are usually too bold for most situations, but using gray instead of black can open new opportunities. Yellow is a bright, playful color, while gray is simple and practical. So, the two balance each other perfectly by making a design fun while still being easy to look at. Light gray is usually the best option, but if you opt for dark gray, consider mixing in some white to balance out the two very different colors. Gray and yellow create a modern design that people of all ages can usually get behind.
9. Yellow & Brown
Like yellow and gray, yellow and brown works well because the fun, vibrant energy from yellow pairs nicely with brown’s grounded, neutral tones. Brown is a warmer, more welcoming color than gray, so rather than feeling sleek and modern, a yellow and brown combo is usually cozy and charming. These two colors go together especially well in autumn when brown, yellow, and orange are the colors you see around you most frequently. If you don’t want people to think of fall when looking at the colors, consider adding green into the mix.
10. Black, White, & Red
Black and red are bold colors on their own, but including white helps tone them down and make them less intimidating. A design with these three colors will likely feel powerful and either modern or retro, depending on the context. For example, a living room with this color combination may look sleek, while a restaurant using these colors may evoke nostalgia. Either way, these colors are best suited for someone who feels confident and wants their design choices to stand out.
11. Purple & Red
Purple and red are right next to each other on the color wheel, but for some reason, people don’t frequently think of pairing them together. Red is a warm color, while purple is a cool color, but both are vibrant and are sure to catch someone’s attention. Using them together is a great way to make a statement, so they’re perfect for stylish outfits and art pieces with lots of meaning. To make this unique color combination easier on the eyes, consider using darker versions of the colors, such as deep purple and burgundy. Together, those colors are magical and mysterious.
12. Purple & Orange
In most instances, these colors don’t go together at all, as they’re both very bold in their own ways. Yet, when used correctly, they can give off an artistic style that you don’t see every day. Similarly to orange and navy, you need to make sure you balance these colors well to prevent them from clashing with each other. Add a touch of orange near a dark purple backdrop or vice versa. No matter where you use these colors, they’re sure to stand out, but when designed properly, they can create an unforgettable look.
13. Seafoam Green & Gold
Seafoam green is a relaxing, fresh color. Yet, gold is seen as a sign of success, wealth, and power. With such different meanings, it’s no surprise that these colors aren’t commonly paired. However, that could be why they work so well. They’re very different, but they still bring out the best in each other. Gold can make people feel successful, while a delicate green can calm them and help them stay humble. Somehow, these two colors that are nothing alike can make a harmonious design that no one would’ve expected.
14. Green & Black
Bright green and black can give off futuristic vibes, such as a color scheme from a science fiction movie. While this can look great in art and some outfit options, it may not be ideal for an everyday design. Yet, there are so many different types of green, so going with a dark green or olive green can make the design a little less energetic. These colors together provide a serious and professional look while also mixing in some fun and calmness. This color combination could inspire people to focus and strive for growth so they can reach their goals.
15. Tangerine & Red
Red and orange are similar colors on the color wheel. They sit next to each other, and they’re both warm colors with energetic vibes. While that makes them go well together in some aspects, it can make them bright and overwhelming if used too much. That’s why opting for a lighter, softer version of orange, like tangerine, is a great choice. It’s still a bold color without being so bold that it creates conflict with red. In many cases, since these two colors are a lot to take in, you may want to consider breaking them up slightly with neutral colors like white and brown.
16. Red & Gray
As mentioned earlier, black, white, and red is a good color combination because white breaks up the contrast between black and red. Red and gray follows a similar concept. Rather than having red and black create a bold pattern, you can use a lighter version of black to make it easier to look at. Since red is so bold, no matter how light or dark it is, a simple color like gray is perfect for balancing it out. For example, adding a gray couch by a red wall or a gray jacket on a red dress can help tone down the energy and vibrancy of the red. It’s the perfect way to make a statement without being too drastic.
17. Mint Green & Brown
Mint green looks great with neutral colors like brown, tan, and white. Many people overlook mint compared to other types of green because it doesn’t look as natural and earthy. However, pairing it with brown helps it feel more natural and relaxing. Even nature tones can benefit from a little extra fun, so mint green can add a little excitement to an otherwise simple design. These two colors can make a space look cute, rustic, and charming.
18. Purple, Yellow, & Black
Finally, this trio of colors is rarely paired together, but when you see designs with the combination, you might wonder why not. Purple and yellow are complementary colors, so they contrast each other and can bring out the best in each other when used correctly. However, purple and yellow are very different. Purple is usually dark and mysterious, while yellow is light and happy. So, adding a neutral color like black can help bring the two colors together. Having hints of black in a purple and yellow design can give your eyes places to relax while admiring the colors.
