Yellow and burgundy can make for an unexpected yet stylish color combination. When paired correctly, these colors complement each other beautifully. There are a few things to keep in mind when putting yellow and burgundy together in an outfit or decor.
The Color Wheel
On the traditional RYB (red, yellow, blue) color wheel, yellow and burgundy are complementary colors, meaning they are directly opposite each other. Complementary colors naturally create a strong visual contrast, which can be eye-catching. However, it’s important not to let the contrast be too jarring. Combining a bright, saturated yellow with an equally saturated burgundy may be overwhelming. Instead, take one of the colors down a notch in saturation or brightness to create balance.
Warm and Cool
Yellow and burgundy also differ significantly in temperature. Yellow is a warm color, while burgundy leans cool. Putting warm and cool shades together makes an outfit more dynamic and intriguing. When mixing these temperamental opposites, consider adding a neutral color like gray, tan or ivory to bridge the gap between warm and cool.
Metallic Accents
Metallics pair excellently with both yellow and burgundy. Try accessorizing an outfit that mixes these colors with gold or silver jewelry, shoes or a handbag. Rose gold is particularly pretty with this color scheme since it incorporates pinkish undertones that connect to burgundy. Metallic accents add polish and shine.
Burgundy and Yellow in Fashion
In fashion, burgundy and yellow work best when one color takes dominance in an outfit. For example, wearing a burgundy dress or suit with subtle yellow accessories like a handbag, belt or heels. Or conversely, don a yellow sundress or blouse with burgundy shoes or jewelry. Keep one color prominent and use the other sparingly as an accent. Here are some more ways to wear this color duo:
| Burgundy Dominant | Yellow Dominant |
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Home Decor
For home decor, burgundy and yellow work best when used thoughtfully in accent pieces, rather than equally throughout a room. A pop of sunny yellow livens up a space dominated by rich burgundy. And burgundy adds warmth to a mostly yellow room. Here are some décor ideas:
| Burgundy Accents | Yellow Accents |
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Tips for Combining Burgundy and Yellow
Follow these tips when putting burgundy and yellow together:
- Use one color dominantly and the other as accent.
- Add metallic shoes, jewelry or accessories.
- Include a neutral like tan, gray or ivory as a bridge.
- Make sure lighting is soft – harsh lighting exacerbates contrast.
- Use a muted or dusty shade of yellow rather than bright yellow.
- Choose a burgundy with purple vs. orange undertones.
- Start with small splashes of color first before adding more.
Historical Use of Burgundy and Yellow
The pairing of burgundy and yellow actually has historical origins. In medieval times, yellow was commonly worn by royal figures along with burgundy. The combination represented power and prestige. Some well-known examples include:
- Mary Tudor of England famously wore yellow and burgundy during her reign.
- Isabella of Portugal, queen of Spain, was known for donning regal burgundy and yellow dresses.
- The colors were used together in the royal coat of arms of Leon and Castile.
Burgundy and yellow were a natural fit for royalty, as yellow symbolized wealth and optimism, while burgundy embodied refinement and luxury. The colors made a bold statement befitting a monarch.
Design Appeals of Burgundy and Yellow
Beyond their historic connections, burgundy and yellow simply appeal to the senses on a visual level. Here’s a closer look at why the colors complement each other so well:
- Contrast: Burgundy and yellow have an innate contrast as dark vs. light and warm vs. cool, creating natural dynamism.
- Complements: As complements on the color wheel, they naturally highlight each other in an attractive way.
- Energy: Yellow has energizing, uplifting effects, while burgundy feels grounded and stable.
- Gender Neutrality: The color combo works well for both masculine and feminine aesthetics.
- Vibrancy: Yellow brings vibrancy, while burgundy adds sophisticated richness.
The aesthetics and impressions conveyed by burgundy and yellow make them ideal for pairing together. Clever use of this unexpected color duo can lead to strikingly beautiful results.
Conclusion
Burgundy and yellow may seem like an unconventional pairing at first glance, but with the right balance, they can be highly complementary. Keep one color dominant, use metallics to bridge the gap, and add neutrals to ease the contrast. Burgundy and yellow have regal origins and great design appeal. By thoughtfully combining these colors, you can achieve looks that are compelling, polished and full of personalized panache.
