Pastel colors are known for being soft, light and airy. When it comes to blue pastel colors, there are many light and muted shades that fall into this category. Understanding the different types of blue pastels can help you select the perfect calming hue.
Definition of Pastel Blue
Pastel blue refers to any pale, desaturated shade of blue. It is created by mixing a small amount of blue pigment with a larger amount of white pigment. This dilutes the blue and gives it a lighter, softer appearance.
True pastel blues have a muted, low saturation appearance. They lack the vividness of darker or brighter blues. Pastel blues are meant to have a delicate, soothing effect.
Characteristics of Pastel Blue
Here are some key characteristics of pastel blue shades:
- Lightness – Pastel blues are very light toned. They have high values, meaning they reflect a lot of light.
- Desaturation – Pastel blues are less saturated and vivid than bold blues. They have a grayish, muted quality.
- Tranquility – Pastel blues evoke feelings of calmness, relaxation and serenity.
- Variety – There are many shades of blue that can be made into a pastel hue.
Popular Types of Pastel Blue
Here are some of the most popular and recognized pastel blue shades:
Baby Blue
Baby blue is one of the lightest shades of pastel blue. It gets its name from its use in baby clothes and nurseries. Baby blue has a very soft, peaceful appearance.
Hex Code: #ADD8E6
Robin Egg Blue
Robin egg blue is a pale greenish-blue named after robin eggs. It’s a light, vibrant pastel hue. Robin egg blue looks cheery and youthful.
Hex Code: #1FC7CF
Cornflower Blue
Cornflower blue is a medium-light blue with subtle purple undertones. It was named after the color of cornflowers. Cornflower blue is associated with calmness and romance.
Hex Code: #93CCEA
Periwinkle
Periwinkle is a pale purplish-blue, inspired by the flower. It has soft, cool undertones. Periwinkle blue is widely used in women’s clothing and decor.
Hex Code: #CCCCFF
Powder Blue
Powder blue is incredibly light and delicate. It gets its name from blue powder pigments. Powder blue has an ethereal, dreamy quality.
Hex Code: #B0E0E6
Sky Blue
Sky blue is light azure shade, the color of a clear summer sky. It is crisp, airy and evokes images of floating clouds. Sky blue is refreshing and open feeling.
Hex Code: #87CEEB
Alice Blue
Alice blue is a very pale, cool toned blue. Its name comes from Alice Roosevelt Longworth. Alice blue has an almost lavender quality to it.
Hex Code: #F0F8FF
Pastel Blue Color Palettes
Pastel blues work beautifully in color palettes. They allow other hues to shine while contributing a soft, dreamy quality. Here are some stunning pastel blue color schemes:
Analogous Palette
Analogous schemes use colors next to each other on the color wheel, creating a harmonious look. This pastel blue palette has a relaxed, beachy vibe:
- Robin Egg Blue
- Baby Blue
- Periwinkle
Monochromatic Palette
Monochromatic palettes use different tones, tints and shades of one color. This all blue scheme is serene and soothing:
- Powder Blue
- Baby Blue
- Cornflower Blue
- Navy Blue
Complementary Palette
Complementary palettes use opposite colors on the color wheel. These opposites create contrast while complementing each other. This palette is bold yet tranquil:
- Robin Egg Blue
- Periwinkle
- Lavender
- Melon
Triadic Palette
Triadic palettes use three colors equally spaced on the color wheel. The contrast balances beautifully with pastel blue in this vibrant palette:
- Alice Blue
- Cornflower Blue
- Pale Yellow
Matching Colors with Pastel Blue
When decorating with pastel blue, it helps to consider what colors complement it best. Here are some ideas:
| Color | Why it Works |
|---|---|
| White | Clean, bright white makes pastel blue pop |
| Gray | Cool grays accentuate the tranquil vibe |
| Pink | Soft pink brings out the subtle hue |
| Yellow | Crisp yellow contrasts gently |
| Green | Minty greens complement the blue tones |
| Purple | Lavender purples tie the colors together |
Using Pastel Blue in Design
Pastel blue has many decorative applications. Its soothing effect makes it widely used in interior design. Here are some ways to incorporate pastel blue:
Walls
Paint walls powder blue for a dreamy, ethereal look. Try cornflower blue in a nursery for a peaceful ambiance.
Furniture
Upholster furniture in subtle pastel blues like periwinkle or sky blue. Distressed wood also complements the calming hues.
Bedding
Dress beds in soft blankets and throws in shades of robin egg blue for a tranquil feel.
Accessories
Incorporate pastel blue with pillows, rugs, curtains and decor accents. Candles, flowers and ceramics also pair nicely.
Kitchen
Paint cupboards or an accent wall baby blue for a cheery pop of color. Powder blue dishes also complement the calming hue.
Bathroom
Consider periwinkle blue towels or shower curtains. Soap dispensers, jars and trays also come in lovely pastel blues.
Tips for Decorating with Pastel Blue
Here are some top tips for effectively using pastel blue in your home:
- Layer different blue tones, tints and shades for depth.
- Mix and match patterns like florals, stripes, geometrics in coordinating colors.
- Add texture with woven throws, ceramic accents and ruffled pillows.
- Incorporate natural elements like wood, rattan, plants and driftwood.
- Use plenty of white and light to keep the space airy.
- Display collections of glass bottles, shells or photo frames.
- Bring in warm metals like brass, gold and copper to accent.
Health Benefits of Surrounding Yourself with Pastel Blue
Pastel blue is such a tranquil, dreamy shade that it can have positive effects on your mood and mindset. Here are some potential health benefits of being around pastel blue:
Lowers Stress
Research shows that pastel blue can lower stress levels and trigger the release of calming hormones.
Decreases Anxiety
The peaceful quality of pastel blue may help decrease anxious thoughts and feelings.
Enhances Sleep
Soft blue hues mimic the night sky and can promote deeper, more restful sleep.
Improves Focus
Pastel blue is thought to improve concentration skills and clarity of thought.
Elevates Mood
Surrounding yourself with soft blue tones can boost your mood and increase feelings of joy.
Lowers Blood Pressure
Because it is so soothing to the mind, pastel blue may help lower blood pressure.
Conclusion
Pastel blue encompasses a range of beautiful, delicate shades. Choosing the right blue comes down to assessing its lightness, saturation and undertones. Soft, dreamy pastel blues can create a peaceful ambiance. Integrating calming blue tones into your home decor and wardrobe can have therapeutic benefits as well.
