Purple and green are complementary colors on the color wheel. This means they are directly opposite each other. Complementary colors create a high contrast when placed side-by-side, which allows them to stand out against each other. Knowing the complementary colors of purple and green can help create color schemes with visual impact.
What is the complementary color of purple?
The complementary color of purple is yellow. Purple sits between red and blue on the color wheel, making yellow its complementary color. Yellow and purple are opposite each other on the wheel. When paired together, these colors will beautifully contrast with each other.
Why yellow is the complementary color of purple
Colors that are opposite each other on the color wheel are considered complementary colors. This is because they share no common hues. Purple contains red and blue pigments. Yellow contains mostly yellow and a small amount of red pigment. Since purple and yellow share no common hues, they contrast strongly when placed next to each other. This makes them complement each other in color theory.
Examples of purple and yellow color schemes
Here are some examples of purple and yellow color pairings:
- Pale purple and bright yellow
- Lavender and golden yellow
- Vivid violet and lemon yellow
- Royal purple and mustard yellow
- Mauve and saffron
These purple and yellow combinations demonstrate the high contrast and visual energy that complementary colors create. Using different shades and tones of purple and yellow allows for many striking color palettes.
What is the complementary color of green?
The complementary color of green is red. Green and red are directly opposite each other on the color wheel. When paired together, they will create a vibrant contrast.
Why red is the complementary color of green
Green contains mostly green pigment along with some yellow. Red contains mostly red pigment. Since green and red share no common hues, they are considered complementary colors. Placing green and red side-by-side results in a striking color contrast. This makes them ideal for pairing in color schemes.
Examples of green and red color schemes
Here are some examples of green and red color combinations:
- Emerald green and crimson red
- Mint green and cherry red
- Forest green and fire engine red
- Sea green and rusty red
- Pale green and burgundy
These green and red color schemes demonstrate how vividly complementary colors stand out against each other. Different shades and hues allow for many vibrant green and red pairings.
Using Complementary Colors in Design
Complementary color schemes offer great ways to create eye-catching designs. Here are some tips for using complementary colors in design projects:
- Use complementary colors sparingly to draw attention to important elements
- Try lighter tints and shades to soften the high contrast
- Pick one color to dominate and use its complement as an accent
- Use a complementary color scheme for backgrounds and foregrounds
- Combine complementaries with neutrals like black, white, and gray
Keep in mind that complements used equally can sometimes vibrate against each other. Adjust the balance and soften contrasts as needed. When thoughtfully implemented, complementary colors will make designs pop.
Examples of Complementary Colors in Famous Logos
Many recognizable logos use complementary colors to stand out. Here are a few examples:
UPS
The UPS logo pairs UPS’s signature brown with a vibrant yellow-gold. This classic complementary pairing helps the iconic brand make a bold impression.
McDonald’s
The red and yellow of the McDonald’s logo are a perfect example of complementary colors. This pairing helps McDonald’s instantly stand out.
Nickelodeon
Nickelodeon uses the complementary colors orange and blue throughout its branding. This pairing screams fun and high energy.
Finding Complementary Colors
There are a few easy ways to figure out the complementary color of any shade:
- Use a color wheel – Opposite colors are complements
- Look at photographic negatives – These reverse colors
- Use color theory math – Complementary colors add up to gray
- Try Adobe Color CC – It identifies complements
- Use apps like PicCollage – Many include complementary options
Online color tools can also suggest great complementary combinations. Play around with some options to find the perfect color scheme.
The Psychology of Complementary Colors
Interestingly, complementary color pairs also provide psychological contrast. Here are some examples:
| Color | Psychology | Complement | Psychology |
|---|---|---|---|
| Purple | Imaginative, creative | Yellow | Optimistic, cheerful |
| Green | Balanced, natural | Red | Exciting, energetic |
These contrasts help the colors stand out visually and psychologically. Smart use of complements takes advantage of these enhanced contrasts.
Conclusion
Purple and green have their own unique complementary colors. Understanding color theory reveals purple’s complement is yellow. And green’s is red. Using complementary colors creates visual impact and interest. Combining complements can make designs pop while contrasting their psychological associations. With a knowledge of complements, any two colors can be brought together in harmony.
