Matching colors in fashion and interior design can be tricky. Some color combinations just seem to ‘work’ while others can look mismatched or clash. When it comes to red and turquoise, there are a few factors to consider before deciding if they match.
The color wheel
The first thing to look at when determining if two colors match is the color wheel. The color wheel shows the relationship between different colors based on their hue. Colors that are next to each other on the wheel are considered analogous colors. These tend to match well and create soothing, harmonious color schemes. Colors that are opposite each other on the wheel are complementary colors. These create high-contrast, vibrant color combinations.
Red and turquoise are not direct complements, but they are close to being complementary colors. Red is a primary color while turquoise is a mix of the primary colors blue and green. This means they have enough contrast to make them pop when paired together, but not so much contrast that they clash.
Color temperature
Another factor is color temperature. Some colors give off a ‘warm’ vibe, while others feel more ‘cool’. Warm colors like red, orange and yellow remind us of things like fire and sunlight. Cool colors like blue, green and purple are associated with things like water or ice. When you combine warm and cool colors, it creates visual interest and dynamic energy.
Red is a warm, fiery color full of passion and excitement. Turquoise has a cool, tranquil vibe reminiscent of tropical waters. Pairing them together combines these two energies in an intriguing way.
Complementary styles
Context also matters when deciding if two colors work together. Red and turquoise can complement each other beautifully in the right setting. For example, using turquoise accessories with a red dress or suit creates a striking look. Turquoise jewelry pops against warm red tones in the outfit. This type of accent color combination works well for fashion.
In interior design, red and turquoise can lend a southwestern vibe. Adobe-style homes with red walls dotted with turquoise decor have an earthy, Santa Fe feel. Turquoise tiles or pottery contrast nicely with terracotta floors and red painted walls. The colors enhance the natural, rustic style.
Same color family
Shades of red and turquoise within the same color family can also coordinate beautifully. Mixing softer shades like pastel peach and robin’s egg blue creates a soothing, harmonious look. Deeper shades like burgundy and teal have just enough contrast to be interesting without clashing.
Having different tones and tints of red and turquoise gives more options for pulling the colors together. Lighter turquoise paired with cherry red or maroon with seafoam green allows the colors to complement each other.
Tips for combining red and turquoise
Here are some useful tips for pairing red and turquoise effectively:
- Use one color as the dominant shade and the other as accents
- Layer lighter and darker shades of each color
- Add a neutral color like white, tan or gray to soften the combination
- Repeat the colors throughout a space for cohesion
- Use turquoise jewelry as a pop of color against a red outfit
- Add turquoise vases or pillows to a room with red walls or furniture
Potential issues
While red and turquoise can work well together, there are a few potential issues to keep in mind:
- Too much of both colors can feel overly bright and overwhelming
- Certain shades like primary red and neon turquoise may clash
- The combination can feel kitschy or outdated if not done tastefully
- Red often overpowers turquoise, so use it sparingly as an accent
As long as you pay attention to color theory and aesthetics, red and turquoise can be combined in many attractive ways. But it’s important to be selective with shades and proportions to keep the look balanced.
Examples of red and turquoise
Here are some examples of red and turquoise used effectively together in fashion and interior design:
| Setting | How Red and Turquoise are Combined |
|---|---|
| Women’s Clothing | A red dress with turquoise jewelry and handbag |
| Men’s Fashion | A maroon suit with a turquoise tie |
| Southwestern Decor | A turquoise mosaic tile backsplash against terracotta walls |
| Coastal Design | Robin’s egg blue accent pillows on a coral sofa |
| Eclectic Style | Cherry red cabinets and robin’s egg blue backsplash in kitchen |
These looks use red and turquoise in ways that draw on their complementary natures. The turquoise adds vibrancy against the red backgrounds. The red provides warmth and contrast to the cooler turquoise accents. The overall effect is energetic and inviting.
Conclusion
In summary, red and turquoise can coordinate beautifully if used with care. While they have enough contrast to pop, they are not so discordant as to clash. Their warm/cool dynamic creates visual interest. In the right settings like southwestern and coastal design, red and turquoise strongly complement each other. With thoughtful color pairing, proportions and combinations, these two vivid hues can make for very effective palettes.
