Whether purple and red are compatible color combinations is a common question for interior designers, fashion stylists, graphic artists, and anyone looking to use color theory principles to create aesthetically pleasing palettes. In this article, we’ll examine the characteristics of purple and red, look at color theory guidelines, and provide decorating tips to help you determine if and how these two bold hues can work together.
The Color Wheel
On the standard color wheel, purple and red are considered complementary colors. This means they are directly opposite each other. Complementary pairs contrast strongly in hue but can create vibrant combinations when used together in the right proportions. Some examples of complementary color pairs include:
| Red | Green |
| Orange | Blue |
| Yellow | Purple |
Complementary colors intensify each other, making both seem brighter when placed side-by-side. This high contrast is why complementary pairs work so well in designs where you want elements to stand out. However, it also means if not balanced properly, complements can clash and cause visual vibration or eye strain. Generally, you’ll want to use one color as the dominant hue and use its complement sparingly as an accent.
Characteristics of Purple and Red
Now that we know purple and red are complements, let’s look at the specific characteristics of each color:
- Purple – Associated with royalty, luxury, spirituality, imagination. Seen as exotic, mystical and introspective. Combines the passion of red and tranquility of blue.
- Red – Associated with love, warmth, intensity and action. Considered stimulating and energetic. Can signify power, importance and urgency when used in high saturation.
Based on these typical impressions, purple’s cool, calming essence combined with red’s heat and vibrancy can create exciting but harmonious combinations. The balance is ideal for making each color “pop” without going overboard into garish territory.
Color Theory Guidelines
Some tips when combining purple and red from color theory principles:
- Use one color dominantly and the other as accent (60/40 or 70/30 split works well)
- Combine a lighter purple with a deeper red or vice versa for high contrast
- Add a neutral like white, black or gray to soften and separate the colors
- Select tones of purple and red close to each other on the color wheel (e.g. burgundy and purple) for analogous harmony
- Add more complementary colors like yellow and blue in similar intensities to create a vibrant color scheme
Certain types of purple also pair better with red than others. Bright purples with a bluer undertone (like periwinkle or lilac) typically complement red more seamlessly than deeper plums and wines. However, deep burgundy red and purple can make a sophisticated duo.
Decorating With Purple and Red
Here are some ways to tastefully include purple and red in home decor, fashion, and graphic design:
- In a living room, use a bold purple sofa as the main element and add red throw pillows as accents
- Paint one wall red and use purple as the trim or accent wall for a two-tone look
- In a bedroom, paint the walls a soft purple and dress the bed in a red and purple patterned quilt
- For table settings, use purple plates with red napkins and table accents
- In fashion and beauty looks, pair a purple top with red lipstick or eyeshadow
- In graphics, use red for headlines and important text over purple backgrounds
How you apply red and purple will depend on whether you want a consistent, harmonious feeling or high-contrast punch. As a general rule, ensure there is sufficient neutral space between the two colors to prevent clashing.
Conclusion
Purple and red, as complementary colors, can absolutely work together beautifully. The key is maintaining the right balance and paying attention to undertones. Use the color theory principles outlined here to guide your own purple and red combinations in elegant, thoughtful ways. With a few decorating tips in mind, you can use this dramatic pairing to create everything from sophisticated sanctuaries to lively logos.
