When putting together an outfit, choosing complementary colors is key to creating a stylish and polished look. Burgundy is a rich, deep red hue that can be challenging to pair with other colors. However, the right shades of blue can make an elegant and sophisticated color combination with burgundy. In this article, we’ll explore the best shades of blue that go with burgundy for fashion, home decor, and graphic design.
Rules for Combining Colors
Before looking at specific shades, it’s helpful to understand some general guidelines for combining colors:
– Complementary colors are across from each other on the color wheel. Red and green, blue and orange, and purple and yellow are examples of complements. These pairings create high contrast.
– Analogous colors sit next to each other on the color wheel. Blue and purple or yellow and green are analogous pairings. These create a harmonious, low-contrast look.
– Cool colors like blues, greens and purples give an icy, calming impression. Warm shades like reds, oranges and yellows feel energetic and bold. Matching a warm color with a cool color helps both stand out.
Best Blue Shades for Fashion
For fashion and apparel, blue is the perfect accent color to pair with rich burgundy. Here are some of the most stylish shades to try:
– Navy blue: As a neutral dark blue, navy has a sophisticated look next to burgundy. The combo evokes a preppy, nautical vibe that works year-round.
– Royal blue: With the same depth as navy but a touch of brightness, royal blue pops against burgundy. Together they create an eye-catching cool-warm contrast.
– Baby blue: For a spring or summer look, light baby blue with burgundy is fresh and chic. The lighter blue keeps the outfit from feeling too heavy.
– Powder blue: Slightly deeper than baby blue, powder blue has retro appeal next to burgundy. It’s ideal for vintage-inspired dresses, blouses and accessories.
– Cobalt blue: Cobalt is a vivid mid-tone blue that makes a bold statement with burgundy. Use this shade sparingly for maximum impact.
Home Decor Color Combinations
From furniture to accessories, burgundy and blue blend beautifully throughout the home:
– Pale blue walls with burgundy curtains or accent pillows
– A navy blue sofa with burgundy throw blankets
– Royal blue kitchen cabinets with burgundy hardware or appliances
– A burgundy area rug under a cobalt blue armchair
Cooler shades like periwinkle, sky blue and robin’s egg blue also pair nicely with burgundy to create a serene environment. Deeper teal and indigo blues work well too for a dramatic, moody interior.
| Blue Shade | Description |
|---|---|
| Periwinkle | Soft pastel blue with a hint of purple |
| Sky blue | Pale blue, sometimes with a grey tint |
| Robin’s egg blue | Brighter, greenish light blue |
| Teal | Deep green-blue, similar to a peacock’s feathers |
| Indigo | Deep violet-blue, close to navy |
Using Blue and Burgundy in Graphic Design
For graphic design from logos to presentations, proper color selection helps convey the right tone and message. Burgundy feels bold, elegant and traditional. When paired with the right blues, it takes on additional meanings:
– Dark blue + burgundy = Confident, credible, trustworthy
– Bright blue + burgundy = Friendly, energizing, refreshing
– Light blue + burgundy = Calm, comforting, sincere
Adjust the shade of blue to fine-tune the impression you want to make:
– Navy conveys authority and reliability
– Royal blue is upbeat and engaging
– Sky blue makes a gentle, reassuring statement
– Teal feels vibrant and innovative
Tones to Avoid
Though many shades of blue complement burgundy beautifully, some don’t quite match up. Steer clear of:
– Neon or electric blues: Too loud and intense next to burgundy
– Light washes or faded blues: Insufficient contrast against the deep red
– Greens with blue undertones: Clashes with burgundy rather than complements
– Purples with red undertones: Competes with the burgundy visually
Stick with pure blues that lean cool or warm rather than mixed undertones for the most pleasing pairings.
Conclusion
With its richness and elegance, burgundy commands attention and works best when accented with cooler shades. The right blues offer the perfect contrast, depth and visual interest. From tranquil pale blues to dramatic bold navy, shades of blue offer versatility in color schemes with burgundy. Following basic color theory helps ensure harmonious, sophisticated combinations for any aesthetic. Whether for fashion, decor or graphic design, blue’s cooling balance beautifully enhances burgundy’s warm, wine-inspired vibrance.
