Pastel green is a soft, light shade of green that can add a soothing, spring-like vibe to any space. However, on its own, pastel green can sometimes look a bit dull. The key to making pastel green really stand out is pairing it with the right accent colors that make it pop. Choosing accent colors that complement or contrast the green can help bring out its vibrancy.
When decorating with pastel green, it’s important to consider the undertones of the specific shade you’re working with. Pastel green hues can lean yellow, blue, or grey. Matching accent colors to the undertones will create the most pleasing color combinations.
This article will explore what accent colors look best with pastel green to give it visual pop. Both complementary colors and triadic color schemes will be analyzed. Additionally, examples of paint colors, home decor pieces, and color palettes will be provided so you can easily implement these color pairings into your own pastel green designs.
What are complementary colors?
Complementary colors sit opposite each other on the color wheel. Red and green, blue and orange, and yellow and purple are examples of complementary color pairs. When placed side-by-side, complementary colors create high contrast and visual vibrance.
The intense color dynamics of complementary colors can sometimes be too strong with soft pastel hues. However, with pastel green, using its direct complementary color in smaller doses can make the green pop beautifully.
The direct complementary of green is red. When used sparingly with pastel green, red provides striking contrast to make the green appear more vibrant. Small red accents like throw pillows, flowers, or artwork make pastel green walls or furniture really stand out.
Red Paint Colors That Complement Pastel Green
Here are some specific shades of red paint that look gorgeous when paired with pastel green:
| Red Paint Color | Paint Brand |
|---|---|
| Cherry Tomato | Behr |
| Hot Tamale | Sherwin Williams |
| Firecracker Red | Benjamin Moore |
| Bistro Red | Valspar |
Whether using these reds on an accent wall or on decor pieces, they create vibrant contrast against pastel mint greens, sage greens, pistachio greens, and other light green hues.
What is a triadic color scheme?
A triadic color scheme uses three colors that are evenly spaced on the color wheel. Some examples of triadic color combinations are yellow-red-blue, orange-purple-green, and pink-yellow-teal.
The dynamic created by triadic colors is full of visual interest while still maintaining harmony when the colors are balanced well. Using two triadic colors with an accent color like pastel green allows you to make the green pop while keeping the overall palette cohesive.
Triadic Color Combinations with Pastel Green
Here are some examples of triadic color schemes that work beautifully with pastel green to give it energizing pop:
Pastel Green, Coral, Plum
This triad uses the colors between yellow-red and red-purple, which are coral and plum. These colors have both warm and cool tones that complement the green gorgeously.
Pastel Green, Turquoise, Burnt Orange
These colors sit between green-blue and yellow-red on the color wheel. Vibrant turquoise and earthy burnt orange provide lots of visual interest next to soft pastel green.
Pastel Green, Lavender, Mustard
This triad falls in between the purple-blue and yellow-green ranges, creating a palette with both bright and muted tones. Mustard yellow and pale lavender perfectly accent light greens.
Tips for Decorating with Pastel Green and Accent Colors
Here are some top tips for effectively incorporating accent colors with pastel green in your home’s decor:
– Use accent colors sparingly – Too much will overpower the pastel green. Aim for 80% green, 20% accent colors.
– Repeat accent colors throughout a space to create a cohesive palette. For example, use plum pillows on a sage green sofa and plum flowers on the coffee table.
– Choose accent pieces like throw blankets, area rugs, and wall art in complementing colors.
– Add pops of accent colors in small doses with items like flowers, candles, and bowls of fruit.
– Paint a piece of furniture or an accent wall in an accent color to make the pastel green furnishings pop around it.
– Make accent colors the star of the show in one area, like red bar stools around a mint green kitchen island.
Conclusion
Pastel green can easily brighten up any space when paired with the right accent colors. Choosing hues that complement or contrast the green provides visual interest. Opt for red accents to make pastel greens pop through color complements. Or use triadic color schemes like orange-green-lavender for vibrant, eye-catching style. With the proper color combinations, pastel green transforms from a wallflower into the life of the party.
