Orange and light purple can make for an unexpected, but beautiful color combination. While not considered a traditional or classic pairing, orange and light purple have enough contrast to stand out, but also share some similar undertones that tie them together. With the right tones and textures, you can use these colors in harmony in a variety of fashion, interior design, or event styling applications.
Evaluating Undertones
Orange is a vibrant, warm, and energetic color that exudes youthfulness, creativity, and excitement. The undertones in different shades of orange can range from more red-orange to more yellow-orange. Light purple, on the other hand, is a calm, cool, and elegant color that connotes femininity, spirituality, and charm. It contains blue undertones that give it a tranquil vibe.
While orange and light purple are on opposite ends of the color wheel, they share subtle reddish-pink undertones that act as a bridge between the two. This undertone connection allows them to complement each other in unexpected ways. The warmth of the orange enlivens the cool light purple, while the light purple soothes the vibrancy of the orange.
Trying Different Color Combinations
When pairing orange and light purple, pay attention to the saturation and tones of each color. Some combinations will look more cohesive and harmonious than others. Here are some orange and light purple palettes to try:
- Light peach orange with pale lilac purple
- Bright mandarin orange with lavender purple
- Burnt orange with lilac purple
- Pumpkin orange with wisteria purple
- Coral orange with plum purple
The paler and more muted the shades, the more sophisticated the combination will look. The brighter and deeper the shades, the more fun and lively the pairing.
Using Analogous Colors
One technique that can help blend orange and light purple is to use analogous colors to create a color bridge. Analogous colors are those next to each other on the color wheel, so picking shades bordering on orange and purple will help them transition smoothly.
Some analogous colors that work well include:
- Red-orange
- Red-violet
- Pink
- Magenta
For example, pairing a pumpkin orange with a pinkish mauve purple. The red undertones are emphasized, creating harmony. Or combining a coral orange with a red-violet purple to bridge the gap.
Monochromatic Contrast
Another approach is to use different saturations and tones of orange and light purple together monochromatically. This maintains the color connection while adding needed contrast.
Some monochromatic examples include:
- Deep orange with light lilac purple
- Bright orange with pale mauve
- Burnt orange with lavender
The darker orange acts as an accent to the softer light purple, giving the palette depth without clashing. The brighter orange pops against the muted purple, providing visual interest.
Using Neutrals
Adding neutrals like white, black, gray, and brown into an orange and light purple palette helps ground the colors. Too much vibrancy can feel overwhelming to the eye. Neutrals create separation and balance.
Some neutral combinations include:
- White with burnt orange and lavender
- Black with mandarin orange and lilac
- Gray with peach orange and wisteria purple
- Brown with coral orange and plum purple
The neutrals allow the orange and light purple tones to shine while supporting them. Don’t be afraid to liberally incorporate neutrals like white space, black outlines, gray shadows, and brown details.
Texture Pairings
Placing orange and light purple on materials with contrasting textures also helps marry them together. The texture interplay creates visual cohesion and adds dimension.
| Orange Texture | Light Purple Texture |
|---|---|
| Matte | Glossy |
| Smooth | Nubby |
| Flat | Iridescent |
| Solid | Sheer |
Pairing a flat matte orange fabric with a shiny transparent purple overlay creates dimension. Or complementing a nubby orange knit with a silky smooth purple pillow provides tactile contrast.
Fashion Applications
In fashion, orange and light purple work well together in retro, artsy, or boho chic aesthetics. Some ways to style them include:
- An orange shift dress with light purple heels and bag
- A burnt orange jumper with a lavender button-up shirt underneath
- An orange knit scarf with a light purple coat
- Plum purple skinny jeans with tangerine orange boots
Accessories like jewelry, hats, glasses, and belts are also easy ways to incorporate both colors. Just keep the rest of the outfit neutral to avoid clashing.
Home Decorating Concepts
For home interiors, orange and light purple produce cheerful, eclectic spaces with personality. Some decorating ideas involving these hues include:
- Lilac purple walls with burnt orange furniture accents
- A tangerine orange headboard with lavender bedding
- Plum purple sofa with peach orange throw pillows
- Wisteria purple curtains with a coral orange area rug
Use large neutral surfaces like walls, flooring, or furniture as backdrops for orange and purple accent decor. The colors will really stand out against the neutrals.
Party and Event Decor
For parties, baby showers, birthdays, or weddings, orange and light purple bring a bright, uplifting energy. Some event decorating concepts include:
- Lavender table runners with peach orange napkins
- Tangerine orange balloons with lilac purple streamers
- A plum purple cake with orange frosting details
- Burnt orange florals in wisteria purple vases
The lively orange makes a fun statement against the soft purple. Use accents of both colors scattered throughout for a cohesive look. Solid purple tablecloths with orange plates or napkins help tie everything together.
Complementary Palettes
While orange and light purple work well on their own, you can include additional accent colors in complementary palettes:
- With greens – Sage, olive, lime, or forest green
- With blues – Cerulean, turquoise, navy, or royal blue
- With reds – Crimson, burgundy, cherry, or wine red
- With neutrals – White, gray, black, beige, or brown
These colors enhance the vibrancy of the orange while cooling down the light purple. Just be sure not to overdo it on too many bright competing colors.
Creative Display Ideas
Some creative ways to display and photograph orange and light purple together include:
- A platter or charcuterie board with orange fruits and purple foods
- An orange drink in a purple glass with purple straw
- Purple flowers like lavender or lilac in an orange vase
- An alternating orange and purple gradient background
These tableaus really highlight the complementary natures of the shades. The orange pops against the purple, creating lots of visual interest for photos.
Conclusion
While an unorthodox combination, orange and light purple can be gorgeous when paired strategically. Look for shades with similar subtle undertones and use neutrals, textures, and complementary colors to tie them together. With the right tones and pairings, this duo can elevate any fashion look, interior space, or special event with an unexpected pop of color. Don’t be afraid to experiment with these lively, expressive hues.
