Complementary Colors
Complementary colors are pairs of colors opposite each other on the color wheel — like blue and orange — that create high contrast when placed together.
Complementary colors sit directly across from each other on the color wheel: red/green, blue/orange, yellow/purple. When placed next to each other they create maximum visual contrast and appear to "vibrate," making both colors look more saturated than they would alone.
Used well, complementary color pairs can create striking focal points and energetic compositions. Used carelessly, they can produce kitschy or jarring results — think of a red rose against a solid green background.
Variations on strict complementary color schemes include split-complementary (a base color plus the two colors adjacent to its complement) and triadic (three colors evenly spaced around the wheel). These tend to be easier to use without looking garish.
Related terms
Ready to make something?
Describe what you want, or pick a style. We’ll preview it in your room before you order.
Start creating