Burgundy and grey are classic neutral colors that can work beautifully together in both fashion and interior decor. Combining these versatile hues allows you to create stylish, sophisticated color palettes. However, choosing the right third color to pair with burgundy and grey can be tricky. The key is finding a shade that complements both colors without clashing. With some color theory knowledge and examples for guidance, you can easily build stunning burgundy, grey and third color combinations.
Understanding Color Theory
Before selecting a third color for burgundy and grey, it helps to review some basic color theory principles:
- Colors are categorized into warm and cool families. Burgundy is a warm hue, while grey is considered cool.
- Complementary colors sit opposite each other on the color wheel. These contrasting shades create vibrancy when combined.
- Analogous colors are located next to each other on the color wheel, creating harmonious combinations.
- Triadic color schemes use three hues spaced equally around the color wheel for dynamic effects.
- Monochromatic palettes utilize different tones, tints and shades of one single hue.
With color theory as a guide, you can strategically select a third color that blends beautifully with both burgundy and grey.
Choosing a Warm Third Color
One approach is to pick a third warm color to match the burgundy. This creates a harmonious, analogous palette. Some warm hues that work well include:
- Terracotta: This reddish-orange earth tone flatters burgundy while contrasting softly with grey. It’s an elegant, nature-inspired choice.
- Mustard: The golden yellow mustard pops against grey and coordinates with burgundy’s red-orange undertones.
- Forest Green: Deep and woodsy forest green handsomely complements burgundy as a fellow jewel tone. It also acts as an earthy neutral alongside grey.
- Rust: A rich, reddish brown, rust seamlessly bridges burgundy and grey with its mix of warm and neutral qualities.
These spicy, earthy hues share burgundy’s warmth while carrying enough contrast to avoid clashing.
Selecting a Cool Third Color
Instead of warm, you could opt for a cool color closer to grey on the color wheel. This creates more contrast but can still yield pretty combinations. Some flattering cool hues to try are:
- Ice Blue: Pale, frosty blue adds a refreshing counterpoint to burgundy’s richness and grey’s neutrality.
- Lilac: Soft and romantic, the subtle purple tone of lilac charms next to burgundy and grey.
- Seafoam: A cool, pale green with blue undertones, seafoam makes a tranquil partner for the two neutrals.
- Dove Grey: Slightly lighter than medium grey, dove grey works monochromatically while adding dimension.
These cooler counterparts to burgundy elegantly contrast the warm base hue for interest.
Complementary Colors for Vibrancy
Selecting a complementary color from across the color wheel is a bold choice that can pay off beautifully. Some striking complements to try are:
- Chartreuse: Vibrant chartreuse green adds spice and liveliness when combined with its complement burgundy.
- Cyan: With burgundy as its complement, electric cyan blue is a neon-bright accent.
- Spring Green: Fresh and cheerful, spring green pops next to its red complement burgundy.
- Goldenrod: Sunny and vibrant, goldenrod yellow energizes its complement burgundy.
The high-energy contrast of these complementary colors makes for an electrifying trio with burgundy and grey. Use them sparingly to add bold punches of color.
Creating Color Palettes
Now that you have plenty of color options, it’s time to put together full burgundy, grey and third color palettes. Here are some stylish examples to inspire you:
Burgundy, Grey and Terracotta
| Burgundy | Medium Grey | Terracotta |
Rich and elegant, this warm, earthy color combination is ideal for autumnal decor and fashion. Use burgundy and terracotta as accent colors against a grey base.
Burgundy, Grey and Seafoam
| Burgundy | Light Grey | Seafoam |
The blend of warm, neutral and cool creates visual intrigue. Seafoam’s restful hue also lightens the mood of the darker tones.
Burgundy, Charcoal Grey and Goldenrod
| Burgundy | Charcoal Grey | Goldenrod |
The buoyant brightness of goldenrod balances the sophistication of burgundy and charcoal in this complementary palette.
Factors to Consider
When finalizing your burgundy, grey and third color combination, keep the following factors in mind:
- Undertones: Choose a third color that harmonizes with the warm red undertones of burgundy and cool blue undertones of grey.
- Purpose: Consider the emotions you want to evoke. Cool hues are more relaxing, while warm shades feel cozy and cheerful.
- Personal Taste: Pick colors you find pleasant together based on your own visual preferences.
- Lighting: Colors can shift in different lighting. View swatches in the room’s actual lighting conditions.
Testing out fabric swatches or paint color samples is wise before fully committing to a palette. Be sure the shades you select complement your space and each other in real life.
Conclusion
Whether you’re decorating, designing, or choosing an outfit, combining burgundy, grey and a third color can create stylish, put-together looks. Warm hues like terracotta, cool tones like lilac, and energizing complements like chartreuse all seamlessly blend with classic burgundy and grey. Look to color theory principles like complementary, analogous, and triadic schemes for guidance. For harmonious results, opt for shades with aligned undertones. With the right color know-how, you can confidently match colors with burgundy and grey for sophisticated appeal.