Complementary Colors to Pink

Attractive lady posed in a thinking stance, wearing a lighter pink contrasted by a darker pink background

Complementary colors are colors that, when placed next to each other, create a stronger, more vibrant color. They are opposites in terms of hue (whiteness), lightness (darkness), and value (luminosity). When you see colors that complement next to each other, they enhance the hues around them. For example, take the combination of pink and yellow, which creates an energetic and vivacious scheme that is sure to get people excited. The two colors tend to make the room look brighter and happier, which is a great feeling.

However, it’s not just these two different shades that can be complement to pink; there are many other colors that go as well. We will explore some of the best complementary pink color schemes in the color theory so that you can incorporate these tones into your design ideas. For additional ideas on color choice, design, or the use of stock photos, check out our Images blog.

20 Popular Shades of Pink

  1. Valentine
  2. Bubblegum Pink
  3. Cotton Candy Pink
  4. Mystic
  5. China Pink
  6. Hot Pink
  7. Pink Pearl
  8. Tickle Me Pink
  9. Soft Pink
  10. Flamingo
  11. Sweet Pink
  12. Jazzberry Jam
  13. Rose Dust
  14. Fuchsia
  15. Barbie
  16. Watermelon
  17. Wild Orchid
  18. Carnation
  19. Baby Pink
  20. Salmon
Example of light shades of the color pink
Example of dark shades of Pink

20 Complementary Colors That Go With Pink

Pink is a beautiful color that can be used in many ways to create beautiful designs. When decorating or matching colors in designs and projects, it can be helpful to consider complementary colors to incorporate with pink. Complementary colors are those that are precisely opposite each other on the color wheel, such as green and red, orange and blue.

1. Red and Pink

Red and pink are both warm colors, but they are not necessarily always a match. When used together in an outfit or interior design, red and pink can complement each other and create a visually pleasing look. However, this depends very much on the specific shades of red and pink used. For example, a bright red with a pale pink may not look good paired together. Another valuable tip is that white or black can be added to the mix to balance out the two colors.

2. Orange and Pink

Pink and orange are complementary colors, meaning they are located opposite each other on the color wheel. When combined, these two colors create a vibrant, lively look that adds energy to any design. Pink and orange together can be used in a variety of ways – from brightening up a room with home decor to creating bold fashion statements with clothing. When thinking about how to use this color combination, it is important to consider the intensity of both hues. If one color is too dark or muted, the combination may lack energy and become dull. With the right balance, however, pink and orange can make for an exciting design combo.

3. Maroon and Pink

Maroon and pink are two colors that are often seen as complementary to each other. A perfect contrast – Maroon is a deep, vibrant red-brown, while pink is a light, soft shade of red. Both Maroon and pink can be used separately for an exciting contrast, or they can be combined for a more harmonious look. In addition to being aesthetically pleasing, this color combination also has psychological implications; it can help bring balance and peace to any environment.

4. Brown (Tan) and Pink

Tan, brown, and pink are all considered to be complementary colors. When used together in design or fashion, these colors can have a very complementary effect. This is because they are all neutral tones that blend easily together. The tan gives a warm tone to the overall look, while the brown adds an earthy feel, and the pink provides a softer touch. Together they create a balanced look that is pleasing to the eye.

5. Purple and Pink

Purple and pink are indeed complementary colors. This means that when these two colors are placed together, they create an eye-catching contrast. Purple is a cool color, while pink is a warm color, which creates a vibrant and dynamic look when paired together. Not only do they look great together, but they also have a special meaning – purple symbolizes power and mystery, while pink stands for innocence and sweetness. Additionally, purple and pink can be used to create incredible art pieces that will surely draw attention wherever you choose to display them.

6. Blue-Green and Pink

Blue-green and pink are complementary colors, which places them as hues, opposite each other on the color wheel. This relationship creates high contrast when used together in an artwork or design project. Blue-green is a cool hue that is made up of blue and green, while pink is a warm hue that is made up of red and white. When these two colors are placed side by side, they create a vibrant visual effect. Not only do these two colors look great together, but they also evoke feelings of relaxation and harmony due to their contrasting but complementary nature.

7. Teal and Pink

Teal and pink are considered complementary colors, as they are on opposite sides of the color wheel. Teal is a cool, calming blue-green color, while pink is a warm and inviting shade of red. They also pair nicely with other colors, like yellow and purple, to create an eye-catching pink color palette. Teal and pink have become increasingly popular in recent years for fashion, decorating, and art projects. Whether you’re looking for something bold and daring or subtle and feminine, this dynamic duo is sure to make a statement. With its versatility and pop of personality, teal and pink offer endless possibilities.

8. Light Green (Avocado) and Pink

Light green or avocado green, along with pink, makes for a great combination of complementary colors. The light and avocado greens are both rich in color and create an earthy feel. Pink is the perfect contrast to this, as it is a much brighter hue. Together, these three shades can create a balanced and calming atmosphere. They also look great in more traditional settings as well as modern ones, making them versatile enough to use in a variety of settings.

9. Yellow-Green and Pink

Yellow-green and pink are also complementary colors. They create a vibrant look when placed next to each other and can help to draw attention to any work. Yellow-green is a bright, cheerful hue that has hints of yellow, green, and sometimes even blue in it. When paired with pink, the overall effect created is one of vibrancy and energy.

10. Rose and Pink

Rose and pink are complementary, and they look great when combined together. They are both warm colors and create a peaceful atmosphere when used in the same room or outfit. Rose is a reddish-pink color that is often used to add a classic, romantic feel to a space, while light pink is generally seen as more playful and youthful. When paired together, rose and pink can create a balance between these two vibes, giving a room or outfit an overall pleasant look. In addition to looking great together, rose and pink also pairs nicely with other colors, such as white, gray, black, navy blue, and yellow.

11. Dark Green (Emerald) and Pink

Dark emerald and pink are complementary colors on the color wheel. The deep green of the emerald provides a cool, calming effect, while the bright, cheerful pink adds a pop of energy and warmth. Together, they can be used in a design scheme to create a modern and vibrant atmosphere, or they can be used to create a whimsical and romantic look as well.

12. Lavender and Pink

The two colors, lavender and pink are complementary and well-balanced. Lavender is a light purple hue, while pink is a lighter red hue, together the two colors create a dynamic contrast that is pleasing to the eye and help to create a look that is both interesting and vibrant. These two colors can be combined in many different ways to create an elegant yet playful look.

13. Mint Green (Sage) and Pink

Mint green and sage are two beautiful colors that, when paired together, can create a stunning color palette. When combined with pink, the result is a soft, romantic look. Mint green and sage are both warm colors, which help to soften the coolness of pink. This combination also adds a modern twist to a classic color combination, making it perfect for creating an inviting and sophisticated look.

14. Turquoise and Pink

These two colors are opposite each other on the color wheel, making them complementary. Turquoise and pink can be used in a variety of different ways, from adding pops of color to an outfit or home décor to creating bold and creative designs. The combination works well for both modern and classic styles, so it’s easy to find something that fits your own personal style.

15. Navy Blue and Pink

Navy blue and pink are often considered complementary colors. This is because they are both primary colors but on opposite sides of the color wheel. Navy blue is a cool, dark shade of blue that adds a sophisticated and calming atmosphere to any space. Pink is a warm, light hue that can create a bright, cheerful ambiance. When combined, navy blue and pink can create a beautiful contrast that will bring out the best in each color.

16. Plum and Pink

Plum and pink are two colors that can be considered complementary. While they are not exact opposites on the color wheel, they still work together harmoniously to create a pleasing aesthetic. When used together, plum and pink create an attractive and striking look that can be used in a variety of settings. Plum is often associated with elegance, while pink is known for its softness, so when combined, it can make for a more exciting combination than either color alone.

17. Yellow or Gold and Pink

Yellow or gold are bright and cheerful hues that symbolize happiness, optimism, and energy. Pink is a gentle hue associated with care and compassion. When paired together, these two colors can create a vibrant composition or evoke feelings of joy and relaxation. For example, pairing yellow and pink flowers creates a beautiful bouquet with an uplifting feel. Similarly, clothing items in yellow and pink are perfect for creating bold yet feminine looks.

18. Light or Dark Grey and Pink

Light and dark grey are considered complementary colors when used with pink. This is because these two shades of grey provide a neutral backdrop to the vibrant pink hue, thus creating a harmonious overall look. Furthermore, the light and dark contrast of the greys highlights the vibrant color of the pink, making it more prominent in comparison.

19. Black with Pink

The combination of black and pink is a surprisingly complementary one. It creates a bold contrast that can be used to create both a classic and modern look. The stark contrast between the two colors helps to make any design stand out while at the same time offering an interesting balance of lightness and darkness. Pink is often associated with youthfulness, while black provides an edge and strength. Together, the colors bring out qualities in each other that would not be present if they were used separately. They also mix well with other colors, making it possible to create a wide range of color palettes with this combination. Ultimately, black and pink are great options for any design.

20. White with Pink

When white and pink are combined, they create a look that is fresh, modern, and stylish. The contrast between the two colors is striking yet delicate. When used in décor, white and pink can give a room an airy and romantic feel that is both calming and inviting. The lightness of the pink offsets the brightness of the white to create a feminine look that is eye-catching yet timeless.

Credit: creativecolorschemes.com
Color combinations in swatches

Pink illustrations and images based on complements of pink

How to Mix the Complement of Pink and Another Color

The sets of colors already listed above are a great starting point. According to an older Youtube video by C.A McIntyre, an excellent way to mix for the complement, follows these steps:

  • Mix two parent colors – i.e., pink and lime or yellow-green. For this demonstration, a violet-red was used as the base color, and then added white. Watercolorists need to add water.
  • Mix a bright yellow-green by using a green-blue with a green-yellow. Tip: You will need more yellow than blue to mix your green.
  • Apply a swatch of each parent color on canvas or watercolor paper spaces out about 8″-10″ apart.
  • Mix the middle mixture. Your objective is to achieve a hue by mixing in a way that does not contain evidence of either parent color. This takes practice and patience. The resulting color will be brown or gray – indicating that both parent colors have been canceled.
  • Now mix the two steps between the pink and the middle color. Just add a little bit of the green to it and notice how quickly it starts to neutralize or de-saturate. Paint a swatch of this color next to the parent color.
  • Then add more green to this mixture for the third step.
  • Next, mix the two steps of green in the same manner.

Credit: www.celebratingcolor.com/what-is-complement-of-pink/

What Colors Make Pink Look Good

When you are looking for a scheme to use with the color, it’s important to choose shades that complement the color. By choosing complementary colors, you will have a better chance of balancing the mood in your home with a calm, calming set of colors. Colors that are a compliment are also great because they tend to be more harmonious and less jarring than adding other tones into the mix that don’t have as much harmony. There is also a solid adherence to accessibility that can be beneficial to ensure most people appreciate the design choice.

The contrast between the colors is something that creates a lot of energy and life. If you want to combine the two, you can use shades of pink, such as bubblegum and salmon, which have a bit more luminosity than pure white or light, while yellow is more luminous than grey or brown tones. The contrast between these colors gives them a powerful effect in a design!

Complementary and Analogous Colors to Pink

Color compliments are always the opposite in hue, lightness, and value. When you see these colors next to each other, they enhance the shades around them. The combination of blue and green is a great example of a complementary color pair. The blue and green colors that go with pink, tend to make the room look brighter and happier – which provides the perfect balance for any room. Another example includes gold, which creates an energetic and vivacious flow.

Psychology and Meaning of the Color Pink

Pink is a very important color for many people, it connotes femininity, innocence, and love. For both men and women, the color and its many pink shades are often seen as a very feminine color. In fact, in the 1950s, “a woman who dressed in the color was thought to be ‘out of her mind'”. 

The color is sometimes associated with the idea of childishness, but this can be changed by how it is worn and the shades used. This idea of femininity that comes from pink can be seen best in the use of pastels like baby blue or soft yellow. The color can also be worn by men, and there are plenty of ways they can do this. Pink isn’t just for women either; it’s a great way to make masculine features stand out, which can make a man feel more confident and powerful while wearing this color.

The Origin of the Color Pink

The color is a combination of red and white, which is why it’s thought to be both a male and female-dominated color. This is because it doesn’t have an exact gender in its name. Pink was originally derived from the world flower of the same name. The flower has a sweet fragrance, so as natural pigments were used to create artificial flowers, they were colored in pink and reds.

Pinks were also seen as being cleaner and purer than other colors at that time. So naturally, with the rise of the Industrial Revolution and technological advancements, the popularity of the color increased even further, including through different shades of pink like light pink and pink flower-inspired tones.

Pink in Popular Culture Over The Years

Before the color pink became mainstream in the late 1800s, there was a pinkish tint on what would eventually become known as “Royal Purple.” It was also used in tones at the time. In the 1700s, during the time of Louis XIV and his reign, a pigment was created called “mauve,” which is a play on words. As far back as 1750, there were many colors made from red and yellow pigments, including ‘Red Yellow Pink’ paint which was popularized by Jean-Baptiste-Claude Monet, and pastel pink.

Credit: medium.com/lessons-from-history/how-pink-became-the-colour-for-women-855d21ce84d3
Paul-Henri Thiry, a German-French philosopher, wore the popular color
Credit: gadriana.com/the-history-of-pink/
Two ladies in a vintage photograph perfectly coordinated in classic attire; Retro New Orleans Poster with a lady in train looking longingly outside
Credit: Credit: Marco Bertorello/AFP/AFP/Getty Image
Asian Ladies wearing coordinated clothing is a trend in popular culture

During this time, it seemed like red with blue or green were the most common colors to use with pink because they added warmth to her tone. However, today it seems like purple has replaced green and blue as the most common color to use with it because it adds a darker shade that helps balance out her lighter tones in perfect combination. Pink has also been a popular favorite color to use for accent pieces, complementary color schemes, as well as room design (such as in living rooms).

Triad And Rectangle Color Schemes

Triad color sets are the most straightforward of all. This is because the tone, value, and saturation of one color completely form three squares on a color wheel. The two chosen colors’ tones are mixed together to create a rich and even mixture that creates a warm tone. You can create a triad scheme with pink and green or blue and orange-red.

Credit: Color-meanings.com
Rectangle Color chart representing complements

The rectangle color system is also straightforward in its use of complementing colors. It is made up of two pairs of these colors that are spaced out evenly on opposite sides of the wheel. This allows for the tones to be mixed to be more saturated than if they were close to each other in value. You can create this design using green and brown or red and yellow-orange as your tones, with values coming from black or white.

Color Accessibility Scores

Different colors have different accessible scores. These scores are indicators of how well a color can be seen by people with certain types of vision disorders. Certain colors also have accessibility scores that depend on the colors that they are placed next to. The accessible score for pink is 0.44, which means that it is an accessible color for people with normal vision or those who wear corrective lenses. Pink works well with red, which has an accessibility score of 1.00, making it another great combination of color choices for your design ideas.

Credit: UXplanet.org
Accessibly safe color palettes in shade cards for several example colors

A series of fantastic tools can help you get inspiration and clear design comparisons on how to use Pink and some of the colors that complement it. Muzli provides a series of options and details for the visual accessibility of color. In contrast, Viz Palette provides an analytical view of pink (and other colors), along with different colors you may want to compare or contrast to determine the best options for your design to be most suitable to the public. Colorsafe also provides an easy-to-access, design-friendly palette for colors and shades you may want to use. As another alternative, there is also Colorbox, which provides some tools that allow for specific tailoring and selections in pairing colors.

Related Palettes to the Color Pink

One of the most popular color choices to go with pink is orange. This pairing of colors is fun and energetic and is often associated with a happy and carefree mood. If you are looking for a cheerful, lively, and uplifting palette, this might be the one for you.  Another great color choice to go with pink would be purple, as the two hues tend to provide a soft color match. These tones are also great for creating an elegant atmosphere that is sophisticated, tranquil, and delicate.

Philip Santino
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