Complementary colors are pairs of colors that, when combined, produce a vibrant and attractive contrast. They are opposite in the color circle and when used together in a design they can highlight each other, creating a dynamic and very beautiful visual effect.
We will explain further what complementary colors are and how you can get them.
The color wheel is a visual representation of the colors arranged in the order of the color spectrum, designed to aid in color matching.
It was first created by Sir Isaac Newton in 1666, who organized the colors in a circular diagram based on the visible light spectrum. This tool is essential in design and visual arts to understand and apply color theory concepts.
In the color circle, the colors are arranged in such a way that they reflect their natural relationships:
Primary colors: Red, yellow and blue. They are the basis of all other colors.
Secondary colors: Green, orange and purple, which are formed by mixing two primary colors.
Tertiary Colors: Shades created by combining a primary color with a nearby secondary, such as yellow-green or red-orange.
Complementary colors are pairs of colors that are opposite each other on the color circle.
This opposition creates a strong visual contrast, generating harmony and dynamism in designs or artistic compositions.
How To Identify Complementary Colors
To identify the complementary colors on the color wheel:
Locate the base color in the color circle.
Find the color directly opposite to it on the wheel. This is its complement.
Color theory also considers factors such as saturation and brightness, which allows complementary colors to be adjusted according to the specific needs of the design.
Uses of Complementary Colors
In design: To create contrast and direct attention.
In Art: To balance compositions and highlight key elements.
In fashion: To combine colors in a bold and visually attractive way.
Table of Complementary Colors
Here is a table with examples of complementary colors and how they are obtained using the color circle:
| Base Color | Complementary Color | Process to Find It |
|---|---|---|
| Red | Green | Green is directly opposite red on the color wheel. |
| Yellow | Violet | Violet is the opposite of yellow. |
| Blue | Orange | Orange is opposite blue. |
| Orange | Blue | Blue is opposite orange. |
| Green | Red | Red is opposite green. |
| Violet | Yellow | Yellow is opposite violet. |
| Yellow-Orange | Blue-Violet | Find the opposite point between the two tones. |
| Blue-Green | Red-Orange | The exact opposite of blue-green. |
| Red-Violet | Yellow-Green | Find the opposite between closely related tertiary colors. |
| Blue-Turquoise | Red-Orange | Identify the point of greatest visual contrast. |
The theory of complementary color is based on the idea that colors that oppose each other in the spectrum, can enhance the characteristics and intensity of each, which makes them ideal for a variety of creative projects.
They are usually located at opposite ends to each other on the color wheel, this is how you can easily identify and create them.
In Which Projects To Use Complementary Colors?
Complementary colors are especially useful when you are looking to create an impactful and energetic design. They are commonly used in:
Advertising: To attract the viewer’s attention and highlight products or services.
Graphic design: In posters, logos and promotional material where contrast is key.
Fashion and Decoration: To create eye-catching color combinations that stand out.
Visual art: In paintings and artistic works, where the use of complementary colors can add depth and emotion.
The choice of a complementary color palette is ideal when you want to convey strong emotions or attract attention effectively.
For example, the use of a warm color together with its cold complementary color can generate an attractive balance that captures the interest.
Examples of use
To illustrate this concept, here are some examples that can help guide you and better understand how to get them:
Red:
Its opposite color is green. This combination can be seen in the branding of many brands and in Christmas decorations, where red and green evoke a festive feeling.
Blue:
Blue color is orange. This pair is often used in sports and technological products to convey energy and modernity.
Yellow:
Yellow color is purple. This combination is popular in graphic design and fashion, creating a vibrant contrast that attracts attention.
Free complementary color generators
So you can search for complementary colors and creating complementary color combinations is easier than it seems. There are several online tools that allow you to explore and generate color palettes. Some of the most used and are the most sought after and recommended on social networks:
Adobe Color: Adobe Color allows you to create palettes and explore complementary combinations.
Coolors: Coolors is a quick tool that generates color palettes automatically, including complementary options.
Canva Color Wheel: Canva Color Wheel offers an interactive color wheel to easily identify complementary colors.
These tools are ideal for designers, artists and anyone who wants to experiment with colors and implement effectively and professionally in our projects.
Conclusion on this topic
Whether you’re creating an advertising campaign, designing a logo or decorating a space, the right application of complementary colors can make all the difference. So don’t hesitate to explore these combinations and use the available tools to bring your ideas to life.
Your next project can shine brighter than ever and have better visibility and correct color composition!