Complementary colors are pairs of colors that are directly opposite each other on the color wheel. They create high contrast and visual excitement when used together.
Basic Complementary Color Pairs
The most commonly known complementary color pairs are:
- Red and Green: This classic combination is often seen in nature and evokes strong feelings.
- Yellow and Purple: This pair offers a vibrant and energetic contrast.
- Blue and Orange: This pairing provides a cool and warm balance.
Extended Complementary Color Pairs
Moving beyond the primary color pairs, we find additional complementary pairings:
- Red-orange and Blue-green: This offers a slightly more nuanced take on the red-green and orange-blue pairings.
- Yellow-orange and Blue-violet: This is a bolder and slightly more saturated take on the yellow-purple pairing.
- Yellow-green and Red-violet: This pairing provides a softer, more muted contrast compared to other pairs.
These pairings, whether basic or extended, are all defined by their opposite positions on a standard color wheel. Their use in design and art creates visually stimulating contrasts.
