Royal blue and orange are vibrant, energetic colors that can make a bold and striking color combination when used together in fashion, interior decorating, graphic design, and more. However, combining these shades in a way that is aesthetically pleasing takes some skill and knowledge of color theory. In this article, we’ll take an in-depth look at whether royal blue and orange are suitable to match, and tips for successfully coordinating these shades.
Defining Royal Blue and Orange
Before determining if royal blue and orange work well together, it’s helpful to define exactly what shades of blue and orange we’re referring to.
Royal blue is a rich, deep blue that was named after being used in garments by British royals. It is considered a shade between navy blue and bright blue. Royal blue has a blue wavelength of around 455 nanometers. Some examples of particular shades that fall under the royal blue umbrella are:
– Pantone 286
– RAL 5002
– Crayola Royal Blue
Orange encompasses a wide range of warm hues ranging between red and yellow. The specific shade of orange that works best with royal blue depends on the tone and intensity of the blue. Bright, vivid oranges tend to look the boldest with royal blue, such as:
– Pantone Orange 021
– RAL 2004
– Crayola Orange
More muted shades like peach and coral can also complement royal blue nicely.
The Color Wheel and Complementary Colors
On the traditional RYB (red, yellow, blue) color wheel used by artists and designers, royal blue and orange are directly across from each other. This means they are considered complementary colors.
Complementary colors sit on opposite sides of the color wheel and have a strong visual contrast. This striking dynamic is due to them containing no common hues. For example, royal blue is a primary color while orange is a secondary color. When complementary shades are combined, they create maximum color intensity and vibrancy.
| Complementary Color Combinations |
|---|
| Royal Blue & Orange |
| Red & Green |
| Yellow & Purple |
The strong visual contrast between complementary colors is important to keep in mind when using blue and orange together. Balance is key – if one color dominates over the other, it can be jarring to the eyes. Evenly distributing the shades will create a bold yet harmonious combination.
Benefits of Combining Royal Blue and Orange
Using complementary blue and orange shades together has several advantages:
Creates Vibrancy
As discussed, orange enhances the intensity and brightness of royal blue due to the complementary contrast. This makes for an eye-catching, vibrant color scheme.
Provides Balance
The opposites attract effect of blue and orange can bring balance and stability to a color palette. Royal blue has a soothing, cool energy while orange exudes warmth and excitement.
Conveys Energy
Both of these colors have strong associations with energy, action and youthfulness. Combining them compounds the energetic vibe.
Complements Skin Tones
Orange is one of the most universally flattering colors for human skin tones. It brings out warm undertones and adds a lively glow. Royal blue also complements a range of complexions.
Inspires Appetite
Research shows that orange boosts appetite. So accenting foods and beverages with a dash of royal blue and orange makes them more visually appetizing.
Appeals to Men
Compared to most women, studies suggest men generally prefer bold, contrasting color combinations. Royal blue and orange fit that profile.
Works Across Industries
This pairing translates easily across sectors like fashion, home decor, graphic design, events, branding, marketing and more. The combination pops whether applied to products, packaging, digital assets, clothing, accessories or environments.
Tips for Combining Royal Blue and Orange
Success in matching these two strong colors comes down to thoughtful execution. Here are tips on how to pair royal blue and orange in aesthetically pleasing ways:
Use as Accents
One foolproof approach is to use one shade as the dominant background color and the other sparingly as accents. For example, an orange geometric print on a royal blue skirt. Or orange pillows on a blue couch. This creates contrast while preventing colors from competing.
Layer Light and Dark
A classic technique is to have royal blue as a dark anchor color and soft peach as a lighter accent. This creates depth. The eye is drawn from the bright color pop back to the rich blue.
Combine Tints and Shades
Don’t just use straight bright orange and blue. Incorporate tints like light blue with deep burnt orange. And shades like navy with muted peach. Varying intensities adds sophistication.
Separate with Neutrals
Neutral colors help transition between the bold hues. Try a cream column dividing a royal blue and orange wall. Or separate them with white space in a graphic design.
Repeat Throughout
Repetition promotes unity. Repeating touches of both colors connects them visually. Just keep repetition balanced and limited so it doesn’t become overwhelming.
Make One Dominant
Keep one color more prominent while using the complementary shade for details. For example, an orange sofa as the focal point with royal blue throw pillows.
Add Textures
Varied fabric textures like velvet, linen and cotton deepen the look. Sheer fabrics can also soften the brightness. Just ensure the textures complement each other and don’t compete.
Scale Colors Correctly
The surface area you cover with each color impacts their balance. Use a larger area of blue if orange will be the accent shade and vice versa.
Examples of Royal Blue and Orange
Some examples that illustrate ways to successfully combine these two shades are:
Fashion
– An orange handbag providing a pop of contrast against a royal blue dress
– An azure blue pantsuit with peach heels and lipstick
– An orange men’s tie paired with a light blue dress shirt under a navy suit
Interior Decor
– Royal blue walls with orange art and throw pillows adding vibrancy
– An orange rug warming up a space with blue sofas and cool toned woods
– Orange cafe curtains at the windows of an eat-in kitchen painted blue
Events
– Blue tablecloths with orange napkins and centerpieces at a luncheon
– Orange uplighting combined with blue ambient lighting to energize an event space
– Royal blue and orange balloons, streamers and confetti at a party
Food
– A cheese board with orange and royal blue accented crackers, nuts and garnishes
– Royal blueberry sauce drizzled on top of an orange sorbet
– Vibrant blue agave syrup swirled into a cocktail with an orange slice garnish
When to Avoid Matching Royal Blue and Orange
While complementary colors like these can achieving striking effects, there are a few instances when it’s best to avoid this combination:
– In spaces where a calm environment is preferred, like bedrooms, spas, or churches. Energetic colors could feel disruptive.
– If the context calls for a conservative or serious tone. Royal blue and orange convey youthful exuberance that may not be suitable.
– On documents or applications where legibility and clear communication is key. Vibrant colors can be distracting.
– In situations where cultural color meanings could be an issue. Some cultures associate orange and blue with different meanings.
– Near skin tones or objects that clash with the shades. Blue or orange hues that don’t properly complement the surrounding colors.
– If the color combination would present issues for visually impaired accessibility. Contrast can be perceived differently by those with color blindness.
Conclusion
Royal blue and orange are a classic complementary pair that can be gorgeous when combined correctly. Their striking visual contrast captures attention while injecting energy and vibrancy into any space or medium. However, restraint is necessary, as both colors are dominant. Use one as the main color and the other as accents; balance light and dark tones; vary intensities; separate with neutrals; repeat touches of both; and pay attention to scale. With thoughtful color blocking, textures, balance and repetition, royal blue and orange can enhance any aesthetic. But avoid overusing this vibrant duo in contexts where a more subtle or conservative palette is preferable.