Army green and lilac are two colors that may seem like an unusual combination at first glance. Army green is a subdued, earthy hue commonly associated with military uniforms and equipment. Lilac is a light purple shade with a soft, feminine appeal. While these colors are quite different, they can actually work well together in the right context. In this article, we’ll explore whether army green and lilac are compatible, look at examples of them paired together, and provide tips for coordinating these shades in your own fashion or interior decor. Read on to learn more about this unique color pairing!
The Meanings and Uses of Army Green and Lilac
To understand if army green and lilac go well together, it helps to first examine what these colors represent.
Army green is, as the name suggests, strongly associated with the military and camouflage. However, it has expanded beyond just fatigues and is now widely used in fashion. Army green conveys a rugged, utilitarian look. It also represents nature, resilience, and renewed growth. This versatile neutral works well with other earth tones.
Lilac symbolizes femininity, romance, and nostalgia. It provides a softness and lightness to any color palette. In fashion, lilac expresses a quiet elegance. This pale purple shade gained popularity in the Victorian era. It adds a touch of vintage flair. In interior design, lilac can give a space a dreamy, romantic ambience. It works nicely with other pastels.
Despite their differing personalities, army green and lilac balance each other out. Army green’s ruggedness offsets lilac’s delicacy. Likewise, lilac’s airiness lightens up army green’s solid earthiness. The colors complement each other in an unexpected way.
Examples of Army Green and Lilac Together
Though army green and lilac may not seem like an intuitive pairing, they can produce some beautiful and interesting looks when combined. Here are some examples of these colors used together in fashion and interior design:
Fashion
– An army green jacket with a lilac blouse or scarf
– A casual lilac dress with army green boots
– An army green romper with lilac jewelry or bag
– Hair accessories like lilac barrettes or scrunchies to add a pop of color to an army green outfit
Home Decor
– A lilac accent wall with army green furniture or decor
– Army green couch with lilac and green accent pillows
– Lilac curtains or rug to soften an army green room
– Vintage-inspired army green kitchen with pale lilac appliances
– A moody army green dining room with touches of light lilac in artwork and candles
Events
– Army green and lilac wedding color scheme
– Army green bridesmaid dresses with lilac floral bouquets
– Lilac uplighting at an event space with army green tablecloths
There are many creative ways to tastefully combine these two colors to craft an edgy but feminine aesthetic.
Tips for Coordinating Army Green and Lilac
Here are some helpful guidelines for pairing these colors in a harmonious way:
– Use army green as the neutral base and lilac as the accent. Army green should take up more surface area to allow lilac to pop.
– Try different shades. Olive green, sage green and khaki pair well with both lighter and deeper tones of lilac.
– Add other colors. Earth tones like cream and tan help army green feel more natural. Pastels like mint and peach soften up lilac.
– Use patterns and textures. Camo prints, tweed, or canvas balance out lilac’s smoothness in army green outfits.
– Incorporate metallics. Rose gold and brass give both colors a glam edge.
– Consider the lighting. Lilac can take on different hues in warm or cool lighting. Green also shifts in tone based on surroundings.
– Don’t overdo it. Because they are bold colors, keep army green and lilac balanced. Let one color take the lead.
With some thoughtful coordination, army green and lilac can make for a stylish, mood-boosting color pairing.
The Psychology Behind This Color Combo
Color psychology helps explain why army green and lilac work surprisingly well together. Here’s a look at what these hues represent:
Army Green
- Confidence
- Strength
- Stability
- Endurance
- Protection
- Masculinity
Lilac
- Femininity
- Nostalgia
- Spirituality
- Creativity
- Tranquility
- Innocence
Army green provides a grounded, reliable foundation while lilac contributes gentle optimism. Together they create a balanced dynamic. The masculine sturdiness of army green allows the feminine lightness of lilac to shine. This unexpected but complementary pairing demonstrates that opposites can attract.
Psychologically, we respond well to this blend of strength and softness. The colors balance out each other’s intensities. Army green keeps lilac from becoming too saccharine. Lilac prevents army green from appearing overly bleak or vigil. Both hues retain their personality without going into extremes. This equilibrium makes the color pairing pleasing.
Using Army Green and Lilac in Different Settings
Army green and lilac pair nicely together in a variety of environments. Here are some settings where this color combination works especially well.
Nursery or Little Girl’s Bedroom
The blend of army green’s reliability and lilac’s whimsy is perfect for a baby nursery or young girl’s room. Army green provides an earthy, gender-neutral backdrop for lilac accents. Together, they create a space that is both playful and practical for a child.
Boho Style Room
For a relaxed bohemian space, army green makes a chill foundation color. A dash of light purple gives it a free-spirited vibe. Lilac pillows, wall hangings, or furniture against an army green background evoke effortless style.
Feminine Home Office
Transform an army green home office space by incorporating lilac. Pretty desk accessories, art, or an area rug infuse color and creativity. Army green supplies focus while lilac prevents sterility. It’s the ideal balance for a feminine work area.
Spa or Wellness Area
Both army green and lilac have a soothing effect appropriate for a spa or wellness zone. Army green creates an earthy, zen ambience. Soft lilac accents provide a touch of tranquility. Together they make a peaceful palette for relaxation.
Teen Girl’s Bedroom
For teenage girls wanting a bold but beautiful bedroom, this color duo is perfect. Army green walls or furniture provide a strong foundation. Pops of lilac in pillows, artwork and accessories give it vibrancy and style.
Conclusion
Though an unlikely pairing, army green and lilac can complement each other beautifully. Army green brings ruggedness and reliability while lilac contributes feminity and whimsy. Their opposing personalities actually forge an attractive balance. This versatile color combination works well in fashion, interior decor, and special events. With proper coordination, army green and lilac create a stylish look that is both grounded and optimistic. While seemingly mismatched, this duo proves that contrasts can come together in perfect harmony. So the answer is yes – army green and lilac can successfully be combined for a unique and edgy aesthetic.
