The color combination of purple and brown is an interesting one that can create some beautiful, earthy tones. Purple on its own is a regal, mysterious color that is associated with royalty, luxury, and creativity. Brown on its own is a natural, earthy color that evokes a sense of stability, comfort, and organic materials. When combined, the two colors complement each other in intriguing ways. The purple brings out a sophisticated, elegant quality in the brown, while the brown injects a natural, grounded feeling into the purple. This color pairing works well in many design applications and can be tailored to fit different aesthetics through the choice of shades.
The Color Theory Behind Purple and Brown
According to color theory, purple and brown are considered analogous colors, meaning they sit next to each other on the color wheel. Analogous colors create a rich, harmonious look when combined in a palette. Purple sits between red and blue on the color wheel, blending the passion of red with the calm of blue into a perfectly balanced mix. Brown is a darker, earthier version of orange, bringing in undertones of red mixed with black or green. When put together, the regal purple and rustic brown complement each other beautifully.
Choosing Shades of Purple and Brown
There are many shades of purple and brown to choose from when combining these colors. Lighter, softer shades create a more elegant, ethereal look. Deeper, richer shades result in a look that is more moody and sophisticated. Here are some of the most popular shades to mix and match:
Purples
- Lilac – A light, airy purple with hints of pink
- Lavender – A light, soft purple with gray undertones
- Wisteria – A medium, jewel-toned purple
- Eggplant – A deep, richer purple that is close to red-violet
- Plum – A dark, muted purple with red undertones
Browns
- Tan – A very light brown with yellow tones
- Beige – A light, warm, sandy brown
- Taupe – A medium, cool grayish-brown
- Chestnut – A reddish-brown with red undertones
- Chocolate – A darker, richer reddish-brown
- Coffee – A very dark, warm brown that is nearly black
Some popular purple and brown color combinations:
- Lilac and Beige
- Wisteria and Taupe
- Eggplant and Chestnut
- Plum and Chocolate
- Lavender and Coffee
Experiment by mixing different shades to achieve your desired aesthetic – from soft and romantic to dramatic and moody.
Interior Design with Purple and Brown
In interior decorating and design, purple and brown work very well together to create a look that is both stylish and down-to-earth. Here are some tips for incorporating this color scheme in your home:
Paint Colors
Use purple on accent walls and brown as a neutral on main walls for a striking combo. Try a soft lavender with warm beige, or deep eggplant with chocolate brown walls. Brown also makes an ideal ceiling color when paired with purple walls.
Furniture
Upholster furniture in purple fabrics like velvet or linen. Use wood stains that have reddish-brown undertones to tie in with the purple. Brass hardware and fixtures also complement the scheme.
Decor
Add accents like vases, throw pillows, area rugs and curtains in shades of lilac, violet and plum. Bring in earthy elements like stone, wood, leather, and natural fiber textiles in brown hues. Botanical motifs and prints bridge the two colors beautifully.
Table Arrangements
Create an elegant tablescape by layering bro
