Black and white color schemes can look elegant, but they can also come across as dull or dreary if the contrast is not strong enough. So how do you make black and white really pop? The answer lies in using strategic pops of color. By adding a vibrant color to a primarily black and white palette, you can make the neutral tones stand out in an exciting way.
The key is choosing the right accent color. You want something bold that contrasts well with both black and white. Some of the best options are bright, saturated colors like red, yellow, blue or green. Even small touches of these colors will make the black and white elements in your design appear more dramatic.
How Color Theory Explains Why Accent Colors Make Black and White Pop
The basic principles of color theory help explain why using vibrant accent colors is an effective way to make black and white pop. According to color theory, colors can be broken down into the following categories:
- Primary colors – red, blue and yellow
- Secondary colors – green, orange and purple
- Tertiary colors – combinations of primary and secondary colors, like red-orange or blue-green
- Neutral colors – black, white, gray, beige
- Warm colors – shades of red, orange, yellow
- Cool colors – shades of blue, green, purple
Black, white and gray are considered neutral colors. They don’t have strong temperature associations like warm reds and oranges or cool blues and greens. When you pair neutral black and white with a bold primary, secondary or tertiary color, the contrast makes both stand out more.
For example, imagine a black and white geometric abstract print. Adding a pop of bright orange as an accent color will make both the neutral and the orange colors seem richer and more vibrant. The orange draws the eye, while also highlighting the depth and dimension of the black and white shapes.
Best Color Choices for Making Black and White Pop
Now that you understand the color theory behind making black and white pop with accent colors, let’s look at some of the best options for accent colors to pair with black and white.
| Color | Characteristics |
|---|---|
| Red | Attention-grabbing, energetic, exciting |
| Orange | Playful, friendly, vibrant |
| Yellow | Uplifting, cheerful, sunny |
| Green | Natural, balancing, harmony |
| Blue | Calming, refreshing, trustworthy |
| Purple | Royal, mystical, creative |
As you can see, primary and secondary colors in their purest, boldest shades tend to have the most dramatic impact against black and white. Here are some specific color combinations that work exceptionally well:
Red and Black/White
True, bright red paired with black and white has major visual impact. It’s an energetic color combo popular for modern, cutting-edge designs. Use it when you want to grab attention.
Orange and Black/White
Vibrant orange is upbeat and playful. It provides a friendly contrast against stark black and white. Use orange accents when you want a fun, lively vibe.
Yellow and Black/White
Yellow has the highest visibility of any color, so it really pops against black and white. Cheerful, bright yellow accents add sunlight and optimism.
Green and Black/White
For a more natural, earthy feel, use green as your accent color. Bright greens work best, bringing a sense of balance, growth and harmony.
Blue and Black/White
Cool blue can have a calming effect when combined with black and white. Darker blues read as more sophisticated.
Purple and Black/White
Regal purple alongside black and white can feel luxurious and mystical. Vibrant purple pops off the neutral background.
How Much Accent Color to Use
When using an accent color to make black and white pop, how much color should you use? There are no strict rules, but here are some guidelines:
- In general, use the accent color sparingly. Black and white should still dominate.
- Too little color won’t have enough of a contrast effect. But too much will overpower the black and white.
- Aim for using the accent color in 15-25% of the design or space.
- Having a single bold splash of color can work well. Repetition also creates impact.
- Don’t use more than 3 accent colors together. Pick one color as the star.
The accent color can be incorporated through text, images, backgrounds, graphics prints or accessories. Use your color to draw attention to a title, product shot or key design element.
Examples of Black and White With Pops of Color
Here are some examples of using strategic pops of color in black and white designs and spaces:
Graphics
A black and white photo or print can really pop by adding one element in an accent color. This could be a brightly colored shape, text overlay, filter effect or border.
Packaging
On a primarily black and white product label or package, use a spot color for the logo, headline or key graphical element. Vibrant product shots also stand out well.
Fashion
Inject color into a black and white outfit with a handbag, shoes or scarf in a bright, contrasting shade. Bold red lipstick completes the look.
Interior Design
Liven up a black and white room by painting one wall an accent color or using accent-colored rugs, pillows, art and flowers. Colored glassware makes a big impact.
Promotional Materials
Make black and white brochures, flyers, business cards and banners pop by highlighting titles, text and logos in a bright complementary color.
Photography
Shoot black and white photos with an element of vibrant color, like a bright red door or yellow taxi. Or add color pops in post-production.
Website Design
On a black and white website, use bursts of color in buttons, banners, icons, typography and photography for visual excitement.
Tips for Adding Pops of Color to Black and White
Here are some top tips for effectively using an accent color to make black and white pop:
- Choose a color that complements both the black and white. Contrast is key.
- Be strategic about where you place the color. Use it to highlight an important design focal point.
- Look for opportunities to repeat the accent color for greater impact.
- Bright, saturated shades work best for maximum contrast.
- Consider having a dark color, like black, paired with the accent color and white.
- Don’t forget white space. It lets the color and black stand out.
- Be selective; too many colors together will dilute the effect.
- Know that less is often more when using pops of color.
Conclusion
Black and white is a classic color combination that can also feel flat without enough contrast. The strategic use of a bold accent color is an easy way to make black and white pop. Vibrant reds, oranges, yellows, greens and blues create an eye-catching contrast against neutral black and white. By following the principles of color theory and smart color placement, you can make black and white fun, dramatic and full of life.
The ideal accent color and quantity to use depends on the mood and visual impact you want to achieve. But in general, limiting yourself to one vibrant accent shade used deliberately in around 15-25% of the design will let both the color and black and white elements stand out in an exciting, complementary way. So don’t be afraid to add some pops of color for booming black and white designs.