Blue and purple are two colors that can look stunning when paired together. But knowing how to combine these cool tones in a way that is appealing takes some thought. In this article, we’ll look at whether blue and purple go well together, tips for combining them successfully, and examples of blue and purple color schemes.
The Color Theory Behind Blue and Purple
In color theory, blue and purple are considered analogous colors, meaning they sit next to each other on the color wheel. Analogous colors tend to have a harmonious relationship. However, with blue and purple, there is enough contrast between the two that the combination is more vibrant than monochromatic.
| Color | Hue |
|---|---|
| Blue | 210 degrees |
| Purple | 270 degrees |
As seen in the table above, blue and purple are 60 degrees apart on the color wheel. This creates enough distance between the hues that they don’t bleed together when combined. The contrast makes the colors pop.
Tips for Combining Blue and Purple
Here are some tips to follow when pairing blue and purple together:
– Stick to shades of blue and purple close to each other on the color wheel. For example, royal blue and purple works well. Teal blue and eggplant purple would be too disconnected.
– Use one color as the dominant shade and the other as the accent. For example, primarily blue with purples accents.
– Add a neutral color like white, black, gray, or brown to give the eyes a break from the intensity of blue and purple.
– Consider lightening up the purple with a lavender shade if the blue has a darker navy or royal tone.
– Add texture by combining a matte blue with a sparkly, metallic purple.
– Incorporate blue and purple through patterns like florals, geometrics, or abstract shapes rather than solid blocks of color.
– Use purple in smaller spaces like on trim or accessories against a blue backdrop.
Examples of Blue and Purple Color Schemes
Here are some examples of how blue and purple can be styled together:
Royal Blue and Amethyst Purple
This pairing features two jewel tones that pack a punch. The bold royal blue commands attention while the purple provides an energizing accent.
Navy Blue and Lavender Purple
Lavender softens the intensity of navy blue in this soothing and sophisticated color scheme. Use lavender on decor items like pillows or vases against a navy blue backdrop.
Periwinkle Blue and Wisteria Purple
These lighter shades of blue and purple have a romantic, ethereal look. The colors blend together more closely than deeper blues and purples.
Denim Blue and Grape Purple
Denim blue has an easy, casual vibe that works with the playfulness of grape purple. This scheme has a youthful energy.
Baby Blue and Lilac Purple
For a spring-inspired look, pair powdery baby blue with soft lilac purple. These pastel versions of blue and purple are perfect for Easter eggs, flowers, and other springtime motifs.
Which Rooms Should Have Blue and Purple?
Certain rooms in a home lend themselves better to blue and purple color schemes than others based on the mood you want to create.
Bedrooms – Blue and purple can help create a restful retreat in the bedroom. Light blues and lavenders promote relaxation and sleep.
Bathrooms – Blue and purple work well in bathrooms when you want to evoke a spa-like ambiance. Try lighter shades on the walls with towels and accessories in contrasting blue and purple tones.
Kitchens – For an energetic, inspiring kitchen space, paint cabinets or an island purple and use blue on the walls or for decorative items.
Home Offices – Stimulate creativity by painting an office space purple and adding blue accents. The combo keeps the space visually interesting but not overstimulating.
Kid’s Rooms – For children who love fantasy and imagination, paint a mural with blue and purple dragons, unicorns, or hot air balloons. The colors are playful and whimsical.
Living Rooms – A palette of denim blue walls with grape purple sofas and pillows creates a fun, casual living area. The blue backdrop ties the space together while the purple provides personality.
How Much Blue and Purple to Use Together
When decorating with both blue and purple, it’s best to stick to the 60/30/10 rule. That means:
– 60% one dominant color – either blue or purple
– 30% the secondary color – purple if blue is dominant and vice versa
– 10% a neutral color like white, black, or gray
Try painting walls blue and using purple on upholstered furniture, pillows, rugs, and accessories. The blue provides a solid foundation while the purple adds contrast and visual interest in smaller doses.
You can also do the reverse – purple walls with blue decorative items. Just don’t go overboard with equal amounts of blue and purple or the combination can become overwhelming. Use one color to anchor the space and the other as accents.
Conclusion
Blue and purple are complementary colors that look great styled together. Following the tips in this article will help you successfully combine these cool tones to create a stylish, vibrant look. Whether you use the colors equally or prefer one color to dominate, blue and purple form a harmonic pairing. Consider using this color scheme in bedrooms, bathrooms, kitchens, offices, kids rooms, and living spaces. Just keep the 60/30/10 rule in mind so that the amount of blue and purple isn’t overpowering. With the right balance, this is a foolproof color combination.
