When choosing colors for a logo design, it’s important to consider what colors pair well together. Orange is a bold, energetic color that stands out, so choosing the right complementary color is key to create a cohesive and appealing logo.
Quick Answers
Some popular color combinations that work well with orange include:
- Orange and blue
- Orange and gray
- Orange and black
- Orange and white
- Orange and green
The exact shades matter too. Bright orange pops against darker or muted tones. Earthy oranges pair well with other natural hues like brown, tan, and olive green.
The Psychology of Color for Logos
Why do certain colors complement each other? To answer that, we need to understand the psychology behind color choices.
Orange is associated with energy, warmth, enthusiasm, creativity, and adventure. It’s eye-catching without being as overpowering as red. This makes orange a fun, friendly color.
When choosing a secondary color, you want something that balances out orange’s high energy. Cooler hues like blue and green work well, as do more neutral tones like gray, beige, and brown.
Some examples of the symbolism and psychology behind logo color pairs:
- Orange and blue – This combo balances friendly orange with reliable, professional blue.
- Orange and gray – Crisp gray reduces orange’s vibrancy, giving a refined, elegant look.
- Orange and black – Striking and bold, this pair commands attention.
- Orange and white – Clean and simple, allowing the orange hue to stand out.
- Orange and green – Two energizing colors that complement each other well.
Think about the image you want to project for your brand. An orange/green palette conveys energy and nature, while orange/gray projects modern sophistication. Choose the combo that aligns with your brand identity.
Logo Color Combination Examples
Here are some real-world examples of effective orange logo color pairings:
| Company | Secondary Color | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Fanta | Blue | Vibrant orange pops against cool blue. Conveys energy and fun. |
| Reebok | Gray | Gray tempers the bright orange, giving a more refined, professional vibe. |
| Amazon | Black | Classic color pairing.Commands attention while looking sleek. |
| Coppertone | Teal | Invokes summer and the outdoors. Teal has a watery association. |
As you can see, orange is versatile enough to work with a range of secondary hues. The overall feeling can range from playful to luxe depending on the color pair you choose.
Best Color Combinations with Orange
Now let’s take a deeper look at some of the best options for orange logo color pairs.
Orange and Blue
This combo is vibrant, energetic, and eye-catching. The warmth of orange balances nicely with the cool tones of blue. Use a brighter sky blue for a playful, tropical look. Navy blue sets a more professional tone. Light blues keep things cheerful and friendly.
Industries that might use an orange and blue palette include:
- Food and beverage
- Hospitality
- Health and wellness
- Travel
- Technology
Orange and Gray
Sophisticated and sleek, this pairing works well for luxury brands. The mute gray tone elegantly complements the orange without overwhelming it. Go for a charcoal gray for bold contrast or a light silver-gray for a polished, refined aesthetic.
Some brands that use orange and gray include:
- Reebok
- Amazon
- Harley-Davidson
- DHL
Financial, automotive, and transportation industries tend to favor this color scheme for their logos.
Orange and Black
Orange and black is a Halloween-inspired combo that packs a visual punch. Both hues are strong, so use them balanced. The warmth of orange also helps soften black’s severity. This pairing conveys confidence and authority.
Some iconic orange and black logos include:
- Amazon
- Harley-Davidson
- Twitch
Technology, gaming, and transportation/automotive industries often use this bold duo.
Orange and White
Clean, simple, and modern, this combination places all the emphasis on the vibrant orange hue. White space helps the orange stand out. This pair works best for minimalist or abstract logo designs.
Brands using orange and white include:
- Nickelodeon
- JBL
- Condé Nast
Any fun, youthful brand can pull off this energetic color scheme.
Orange and Green
Both energetic colors, orange and green complement each other beautifully. Green represents nature, health, and renewal, while orange conveys cheerfulness, creativity, and warmth. Use forest greens, olive tones, or even teal for variety.
Some orange and green logos include:
- Whole Foods Market
- Nickelodeon
- Coppertone
This color scheme works for brands in the food, health, nature, and sustainability spaces.
Tips for Designing an Orange Logo
Here are some top tips for creating a winning orange logo:
- Choose the right orange shade for your brand – Bright, neon orange conveys energy. Rusty, earthy oranges are natural and organic.
- Use color psychology to inform your pairing – Know what vibe you want your logo to give off.
- Use orange as an accent color with more neutral hues like gray, beige or black.
- Make orange the dominant color with a light or white secondary shade.
- Use complementary colors like blue and green to make the orange pop.
- Add visual interest with orange color gradients and variations.
- Ensure enough contrast between the orange and text or logotype.
- Use orange thoughtfully – A little goes a long way!
Experiment with different orange color combinations and layouts. The psychology of color can greatly influence the look, feel, and impact of your logo design.
Conclusion
Orange is a fantastic color for logos that want to grab attention, convey energy, and feel fun and friendly. To create the right look and temper the orange hue, pair it thoughtfully with colors like blue, gray, black, white, or green.
Consider your brand identity, industry, and target audience when selecting an orange color scheme. With so many options, you can create a unique, memorable logo that helps your brand stand out.