Lavender is a light purple shade that is often associated with the fragrant lavender plant. But lavender is more than just a color – it’s created by mixing two distinct hues together in just the right proportions. So what are the two colors that make lavender when combined?
The Color Theory Behind Lavender
In color theory, lavender is considered a tertiary color. This means it is made by combining two primary colors together. The three primary colors are red, yellow, and blue. When you mix two primary colors, you get a secondary color. For example, mixing red and yellow makes orange.
To make a tertiary color like lavender, you then take one primary color and one secondary color. The two colors that make lavender are blue (a primary) and red-violet (a secondary made from mixing red and blue). By mixing just the right amounts of these two colors, you get a pale purple shade known as lavender.
The Red-Violet Component
Red-violet is essential for making lavender. This vivid color combines the bold hue of red with the cooler tone of blue. Red-violet sits between the two on the color wheel. It adds a vibrant pop of reddish-purple to tone down the brightness of blue.
There are a few different shades that can be considered “red-violet.” Some possibilities include:
- Magenta
- Ruby
- Fuchsia
- Purple
- Violet
All of these contain a strong red component balanced by blue undertones. Of these options, a mid-tone purple tends to work best when making lavender.
The Blue Component
On the other side of lavender is the blue hue. Blue is a primary color and a cooler tone. It brings a sense of tranquility and relaxation to the mix.
There are many shades of blue to choose from as well. Some to consider include:
- Navy blue
- Royal blue
- Sky blue
- Baby blue
- Periwinkle
For mixing lavender, a light to mid-range blue with subtle hints of purple works best. A pale periwinkle or soft baby blue are nice options.
How to Mix Custom Lavender
Now that we know lavender contains blue and red-violet, let’s look at some easy ways to mix up this elegant shade:
With Paint
Using paints to mix lavender allows you complete control over the final color. Start with any medium to dark purple paint, such as violet or amethyst. Then add small amounts of white and/or a light blue shade like periwinkle or baby blue. Mix thoroughly until you achieve a soft, pale purple.
With Food Coloring
For baking, decorating, or DIY projects, liquid food coloring lets you mix custom lavender. Use a basic violet shade then dilute with drops of blue (and optionally white) food coloring until reaching your perfect lavender purple.
With RGB Values
On digital projects, you can mix lavender using RGB color values. The formula for a standard lavender is:
- R (Red): 150-160
- G (Green): 123-143
- B (Blue): 198-221
Adjust the blue and red values within this range to mix your own custom lavender.
With Hex Codes
Similar to RGB, hex codes allow digital mixing to find lavender. A base lavender hex is #CCA4E0. By modifying the red and blue digits in the hex code, you can easily adjust the shade.
Achieving the Perfect Lavender Hue
It takes some trial and error to find the ideal lavender. Start with one part vivid purple and two parts light blue. Adjust the ratio until you find a soft, balanced purple with subtle blue undertones. Here are some tips:
- Add more purple for a richer, bolder lavender
- Increase blue for a cooler, more tranquil lavender
- Mix in a touch of white to soften and lighten the lavender
- Swap in periwinkle or lilac for unique lavender shades
Soon you’ll have a beautiful, calming lavender hue perfect for any project.
The Psychology of the Color Lavender
So why is lavender such a beloved color? Beyond just being aesthetically pleasing, lavender also has some meaningful psychological effects.
Here’s an overview of the color psychology behind lavender:
| Attribute | Description |
|---|---|
| Calming | Lavender has soothing, calming properties that bring tranquil feelings. |
| Elegant | The soft, pale purple tone feels refined and elegant. |
| Feminine | Lavender is associated with femininity and grace. |
| Nostalgic | It evokes nostalgia and memories of tender moments. |
| Romantic | Lavender inspires romanticism, affection and sensitivity. |
The balance of red and blue makes lavender a versatile, appealing color that works well in many contexts.
Using Lavender in Design and Decor
From interior design to products, lavender shows up in many areas. Its soft femininity and ability to create calm, relaxing feelings make lavender a popular choice.
Some of the top ways to utilize lavender include:
- Walls, bedding, and decor in bedrooms or spas
- Tableware like mugs, glasses, and dinnerware
- Candles, diffusers, bath bombs, and soap
- Stationery, invitations, websites, and branding
- Icing, cake decorations, and candy
- Clothing, accessories, and makeup products
Lavender works nicely when paired with shades like light greens, warm taupes, buttery yellows and soft greys. Brass and natural wood accents also complement a lavender color palette.
Fun Facts About the Color Lavender
Beyond just mixing lavender’s components, there are some intriguing facts about this purple shade:
- Lavender flowers have been used for perfumes, soaps and even culinary recipes for centuries.
- The name lavender comes from the Latin word “lavare” meaning “to wash.”
- Brides in the Victorian era often carried bouquets of lavender flowers.
- Lavender is considered the official color for International Women’s Day.
- The 17th century French King Louis XIV loved lavender and required lavender flowers at his palace.
- Lavender fields in Provence, France are a popular tourist attraction.
- Lavender essential oil is touted for its relaxing and sleep-promoting properties.
Conclusion
Lavender is a gorgeous, soothing shade that has captivated people for generations. By skillfully mixing the primary color blue with the secondary purple, a unique tertiary color emerges. With its calming yet elegant vibe, lavender continues to be a beloved color option for fashion, decor, goods, branding and more. So next time you come across something lavender, think about the 2 special colors that blend together to create it.
