When it comes to combining colours, the possibilities are endless, but not all colour combinations are created equal. While some colours harmonize beautifully, others clash and create a visual catastrophe. In this article, we’ll explore the colours that do not go together, and provide you with some valuable insights on how to avoid common colour mistakes.
Understanding Colour Theory
Before we dive into the colours that don’t mix, it’s essential to understand the basics of colour theory. Colour theory is a set of principles used to create harmonious colour combinations. It’s based on the way colours interact with each other and the emotions they evoke. There are several key concepts in colour theory, including:
The Colour Wheel
The colour wheel is a circular representation of colours, with primary colours (red, yellow, and blue) at the centre. Secondary colours (orange, green, and violet) are created by mixing two primary colours. Tertiary colours are created by mixing primary and secondary colours. The colour wheel is a useful tool for selecting colours that work well together.
Colour Harmony
Colour harmony refers to the way colours work together to create a visually appealing effect. There are several principles of colour harmony, including:
- Monochromatic: using different shades of the same colour
- Complementary: using colours that are opposite each other on the colour wheel
- Analogous: using colours that are next to each other on the colour wheel
- Triadic: using colours that are equally spaced from each other on the colour wheel
Colours that Clash
Now that we’ve covered the basics of colour theory, let’s explore some colour combinations that don’t work well together.
Neon Pink and Electric Blue
These two colours are often used in neon signs and can be overwhelming when used together. The bright, saturated colours can create a headache-inducing effect and are best avoided.
Bright Yellow and Lime Green
These two colours are both highly saturated and can create a jarring effect when used together. The bright yellow can also make the lime green appear more yellow than green, creating an unappealing colour combination.
Red and Green
While these colours can work well together in small doses, they can be overwhelming when used in large quantities. The bold, saturated colours can create a Christmas-like effect, which may not be desirable in most design contexts.
Orange and Purple
These two colours are both highly saturated and can create a jarring effect when used together. The orange can also make the purple appear more pink than purple, creating an unappealing colour combination.
Why Colours Clash
So, why do some colours clash while others work well together? There are several reasons why colours may not mix:
Colour Saturation
Colours that are highly saturated can be overwhelming when used together. Saturated colours are bright and vibrant, but they can also be fatiguing to the eye.
Colour Contrast
Colours that are too similar in hue or saturation can create a lack of contrast, making it difficult to distinguish between them. On the other hand, colours that are too different can create a jarring effect.
Colour Context
The context in which colours are used can also affect how they are perceived. For example, a colour that works well in a natural setting may not work well in a urban setting.
How to Avoid Colour Catastrophes
While it’s impossible to avoid colour clashes entirely, there are several strategies you can use to minimize the risk:
Use the 60-30-10 Rule
This rule suggests that 60% of your design should be a dominant colour, 30% a secondary colour, and 10% an accent colour. This can help create a balanced colour scheme and reduce the risk of colour clashes.
Use a Colour Wheel
A colour wheel can help you select colours that work well together. By choosing colours that are opposite each other on the colour wheel (complementary colours), you can create a harmonious colour scheme.
Test Your Colours
Before finalizing your colour scheme, test your colours to ensure they work well together. You can do this by creating a mockup or prototype of your design.
Conclusion
While there are no hard and fast rules when it comes to colour combinations, there are certain colours that do not go together. By understanding colour theory and using strategies such as the 60-30-10 rule, you can minimize the risk of colour clashes and create a harmonious colour scheme. Remember, the key to successful colour combinations is balance and contrast. By striking the right balance between colours, you can create a visually appealing effect that engages and inspires your audience.
| Colour Combination | Why it Doesn’t Work |
|---|---|
| Neon Pink and Electric Blue | Overwhelming and headache-inducing |
| Bright Yellow and Lime Green | Jarring and unappealing |
| Red and Green | Overwhelming and Christmas-like |
| Orange and Purple | Jarring and unappealing |
By avoiding these colour combinations and using the strategies outlined in this article, you can create a harmonious colour scheme that engages and inspires your audience.
What are some colour combinations that clash?
Some colour combinations that clash include neon pink and electric blue, as these colours are too bright and overpowering when paired together. Another example is pairing bright yellow with lime green, as the similarity in hue and saturation creates a jarring effect. Additionally, combining red and orange can be overwhelming, as both colours are highly saturated and stimulating.
When colours clash, it can be visually unappealing and even cause eye strain. This is because the brain has difficulty processing the conflicting signals from the colours. As a result, it’s essential to choose colour combinations that harmonize and create a balanced visual effect.
Why do certain colours not go together?
Certain colours do not go together because of their hue, saturation, and contrast. Colours that are too similar in hue can create a jarring effect, while colours that are too different can be overwhelming. Additionally, colours with high saturation can clash with those that are more muted. The contrast between colours can also affect how well they work together, with high contrast combinations potentially creating visual tension.
Understanding the colour wheel and how colours relate to each other can help in selecting harmonious colour combinations. By considering the hue, saturation, and contrast of colours, individuals can create visually appealing and balanced colour schemes. This is particularly important in design, art, and fashion, where colour choices can greatly impact the overall aesthetic.
What is the 60-30-10 rule in colour combination?
The 60-30-10 rule is a guideline for creating harmonious colour combinations. It suggests that 60% of the colour scheme should be a dominant colour, 30% a secondary colour, and 10% an accent colour. This rule helps to create balance and visual interest in a colour scheme. By allocating the majority of the colour scheme to a dominant colour, the secondary and accent colours can add contrast and depth without overwhelming the senses.
The 60-30-10 rule can be applied to various design fields, including interior design, fashion, and graphic design. It provides a simple and effective way to create colour combinations that are visually appealing and balanced. By following this rule, individuals can avoid colour catastrophes and create harmonious colour schemes.
How can I choose colours that go well together?
To choose colours that go well together, consider the colour wheel and how colours relate to each other. Colours that are opposite each other on the colour wheel, known as complementary colours, can create a harmonious and visually appealing combination. Additionally, colours that are next to each other on the colour wheel, known as analogous colours, can also work well together.
Another approach is to consider the mood and atmosphere you want to create with your colour scheme. Different colours can evoke different emotions and moods, so choose colours that align with your desired outcome. You can also experiment with different colour combinations and seek inspiration from nature, art, and design.
What are some common colour combination mistakes?
One common colour combination mistake is pairing colours that are too similar in hue, resulting in a lack of contrast and visual interest. Another mistake is combining colours that are too bright or overpowering, creating a jarring effect. Additionally, using too many colours in a single scheme can be overwhelming and create visual chaos.
To avoid these mistakes, it’s essential to consider the colour wheel and how colours relate to each other. By choosing colours that complement or contrast with each other, individuals can create harmonious and visually appealing colour combinations. It’s also important to limit the number of colours in a scheme and use a dominant colour to create balance and cohesion.
Can I use online colour combination tools to help me choose colours?
Yes, there are many online colour combination tools available that can help you choose colours that go well together. These tools often provide colour palettes and suggestions based on your input, such as a dominant colour or a specific mood or atmosphere. Some popular online colour combination tools include Adobe Color, Color Hunt, and Coolors.
Using online colour combination tools can be a great way to explore different colour options and find inspiration for your design project. These tools can also help you to identify colour combinations that you may not have considered otherwise. However, it’s essential to remember that colour is subjective, and what works for one person may not work for another.
How can I ensure my colour combinations are accessible to people with colour vision deficiency?
To ensure your colour combinations are accessible to people with colour vision deficiency, consider using colours with sufficient contrast and avoiding combinations that rely on subtle differences in hue. You can also use online tools to simulate how your colour scheme will appear to people with different types of colour vision deficiency.
Additionally, consider using colours that are more saturated and have a higher contrast ratio. This can help to create a more accessible colour scheme that is easier to distinguish for people with colour vision deficiency. By taking these steps, you can create colour combinations that are inclusive and accessible to a wider audience.