Indigo blue is a rich, deep shade that evokes a sense of mystery and intrigue. When decorating with indigo blue, it’s important to choose complementary colors that will enhance its striking visual appeal. Certain shades combine particularly well with indigo to create stylish, put-together looks. In this article, we’ll explore ideal color matches for indigo blue in various home décor scenarios.
Basics of Color Theory
Before diving into specific indigo pairings, let’s review some key color theory principles that explain why certain shades go so well together.
Complementary Colors
These are colors located opposite each other on the color wheel, like red and green or blue and orange. When placed side-by-side, they create strong visual contrast and vibrancy.
Analogous Colors
These colors sit next to each other on the color wheel, like blue, blue-green, and green. They are similar in hue but offer subtle variation.
Triadic Colors
This trio of colors spaced evenly around the color wheel for a dynamic, energetic look. Example: orange, purple, and green.
Monochromatic
Different shades, tints, and tones of a single color. This creates a refined, soothing ambiance.
So balancing complementary colors, analogous hues, triadic combinations, and tonal variations is key for making indigo pop.
Wall Colors
Indigo blue brings drama and flair to any wall. But pairing it with the right accent walls and trims prevents it from feeling overwhelming. Here are perfect matches:
Soft Gray
A muted, lighter gray acts as the perfect neutral counterpart to vivid indigo walls. It also allows brighter accents and decor to take the spotlight. The two colors complement each other beautifully.
Crisp White
White trim along ceilings, baseboards, and doorways keep indigo walls from feeling too dark and intense. White also acts as a clean, fresh accent.
Pale Yellow
Buttery yellow with muted brightness pairs nicely with indigo’s depth. This color combo is cheery yet grounded.
Robin’s Egg Blue
Lighter sky blue provides analogous color harmony. It shares enough similarities with indigo to feel cohesive but enough contrast to be interesting.
Furniture
When choosing furniture for an indigo blue room, stick to these foolproof pairings:
Natural Wood Tones
Unfinished wood in oak, walnut, rattan, and bamboo add warmth. The muted natural brown coloration acts as a perfect neutral backdrop for indigo furniture pieces or accents.
Black Lacquer or Leather
Sleek black dining chairs, end tables, entertainment units, or leather sofas feel lush and sophisticated against indigo walls. The dynamic color contrast is striking.
Brushed Brass or Gold
Metallics with a muted patina in worn brass, bronze, and gold add a glamorous touch and complement indigo’s saturated nature. Just avoid anything too shiny.
Cream or White Upholstery
Lighter upholstery in off-white, cream, or even soft mint keeps sofas, chairs, and headboards feeling bright and airy against dark indigo walls.
Accessories and Accents
Fill out an indigo room with these energizing pops of color in decor items and accessories:
Turquoise
From throw pillows to ceramic vases, the vivid aqua blue of turquoise makes indigo pop. This fun, youthful color combo feels fresh and lively.
Radiant Orchid
Pantone’s 2014 Color of the Year, this vibrant purple with pink undertones, energizes an indigo palette. Use it in small doses on pillows, rugs, or lamps.
Sunny Yellow
Candlesticks, planters, mugs, and door mats in marigold, lemon, or amber yellow inject cheerful contrast. Just avoid overwhelming the indigo.
Emerald Green
Deep green table runners, blankets, curtains, and more create an elegant, nature-inspired atmosphere. The complementary colors play off each other beautifully.
Textiles
Layer rugs, pillows, throws, and other textiles in these shades for an inviting indigo living room or bedroom:
Ivory and Natural Linen
Natural, breathable fabrics like linen in creamy off-whites conveniently hide dirt and offer comfort.
Navy and Royal Blue
Different tones of blue with depth add great cohesion. Use textured navy rug and lighter royal blue curtains.
Gray Chevron
A gray zigzag rug or striped blanket in this darker neutral prevents the room from feeling too overwhelmingly blue.
Muted Florals
Upholstery or pillows in muted peach and lilac florals feels romantic and charming against indigo blue.
Conclusion
With so many chic, sophisticated color combinations to try, indigo blue walls make a stunning style statement. The right pairings of gray, white, yellow, turquoise, emerald, and metallics allow indigo’s bold personality to shine. Just remember the basics of complementary, analogous, and triadic colors as you decorate for timeless appeal. Indigo needn’t feel overwhelming with the right color camaraderie!
