Pink and light blue are two soft, feminine colors that complement each other beautifully. When combined in fashion, home decor, or graphic design, these two shades create a relaxed, romantic aesthetic. Let’s examine the color wheel theory behind this color pairing, as well as tips for coordinating pink and light blue effectively.
The color theory behind pink and light blue
On the color wheel, pink and light blue are analogous colors, meaning they sit side-by-side on the wheel. Analogous colors naturally look pleasing together because they share undertones. Pink leans towards red on the color wheel, while light blue leans towards green and blue. Even though they don’t technically share the same base undertone, the close proximity allows them to blend seamlessly.
Light or pale blue has a calm, soothing effect. It evokes feelings of tranquility, trust, and softness – think of a clear sky or still water. Pink is associated with sweetness, romance, and femininity. Combining the two results in a soft, dreamy aesthetic perfect for spring and summer.
Tips for coordinating pink and light blue
Here are some tips to help you pair pink and light blue successfully:
- Choose the right hues. Stick to soft, pale versions of pink and blue. Powdery pastels or faded, muted shades tend to look best together. Avoid neon or electric versions.
- Pay attention to proportions. Use one color as the dominant shade, with the other in smaller doses. For example, light blue jeans with a pale pink top or a primarily pink skirt with blue floral details.
- Introduce a neutral. White, beige, gray and wood tones help soften and blend pink and light blue. Try a white top with a pink skirt and pale blue jacket.
- Repeat colors throughout a space. In a living room, bring in light blue and pink through pillows, art, flowers, decor items. Repeat colors for a cohesive look.
- Use varying shades. Layer lighter and darker values of each hue. A soft pink table lamp on a powder blue side table, for instance.
Pink and light blue color combinations
Here are some specific shade combinations that look beautiful together:
| Pink | Light Blue |
|---|---|
| Blush pink | Baby blue |
| Dusty rose | Periwinkle blue |
| Salmon pink | Robin’s egg blue |
| Shell pink | Ice blue |
| Soft pink | Powder blue |
| Ballet slipper pink | Sky blue |
Some shades to avoid are fluorescent pinks paired with electric or neon blues. These have too much contrast and tend to clash.
Using pink and light blue in fashion
In fashion, pink and light blue make an ideal color combination for spring and summer styles. Pastel pink tops pair beautifully with light wash denim jeans or shorts. For shoes, add pink flats or sandals to a powder blue sundress. Other ideas include:
- A blush pink skirt with a robin’s egg blue blouse
- A salmon pink dress with periwinkle blue floral print
- Light blue jeans with a dusty rose cardigan or kimono
- An ice blue suit with a blush pink shirt
- Baby blue shorts with a shell pink tank
Accessories like scarves, hats, hair ribbons, and jewelry can help tie the two colors together. Look for blue and pink floral patterns or stripes on bags, shoes, and belts.
Using pink and light blue in home decor
There are endless possibilities for decorating with pink and light blue. In a child’s room, mix powder blue walls with a blush pink rug, salmon bedding, and robin’s egg accents. In other rooms, try:
- A periwinkle blue sofa with pink and white patterned pillows
- Pink curtains paired with light blue walls
- A dusty rose armchair next to a baby blue side table
- Salmon pink kitchen appliances like a stand mixer or toaster
- Blue and white rug with a pink console table behind it
Floral arrangements look beautiful in vases set against either pink or light blue backdrops. Outdoor furniture like seating cushions and umbrellas also commonly come in these hues.
Using pink and light blue in graphic design
For graphic design, websites, invitations, branding, and more, pale pink and light blue make a dreamy color palette. Ideas for using the two colors together include:
- A powder blue background with pink font and details
- A blog or brand logo that combines light blue and soft pink
- Letterhead or business cards with light blue edges and a pink interior
- Pink icons, bullets, or graphics set on a sky blue web page
- A wedding invitation suite with baby blue envelope liners and blush pink text
Photography backdrops in these colors complement subjects with light skin and hair as well as props featuring florals, food, and more. The colors make images feel airy and approachable.
Does pink go with light blue? Bottom line
The soft, sweet pairing of pink and light blue has timeless appeal. With the right hues and proportions, these colors complement each other beautifully in all types of design and decor. Pay attention to color theory and shade combinations for the most pleasing effects. In general, soft, muted versions tend to work best together by evoking femininity, romance and tranquility.
