Summer is the warmest season of the year, known for sunshine, beaches, vacations and bright vibrant colors. Certain colors are strongly associated with summer due to their brightness, associations with warmth, nature and more. Here we will explore the most popular summer color palettes and what makes them reflective of the summer season.
Bright Primary Colors
Vibrant primary colors like red, blue, yellow and green are very commonly used in summer design themes and fashion. These colors are bold, energetic and eye-catching, reflecting the lively spirit of summer. Bright reds, oranges and yellows are reminiscent of summer sunsets and citrus fruits in season. Blues and greens call to mind cool swimming pools, lakes and the ocean. Primary colors generally evoke playfulness, fun and youthfulness.
Pastels
Soft, light pastel shades like mint, peach, lavender, pink and baby blue also dominate summer color palettes. Pastels are lighter and more muted versions of the primary colors that give a delicate, relaxed feeling. These breezy, faded hues remind us of ice cream, clouds, flowers and other gentle elements of summer. Pastels are widely used in women’s summer fashion, wall paint colors and decor.
Neutrals
Clean and airy neutral shades like white, beige and light gray are also commonly seen in summer months. Crisp whites reflect the summer sun and go with everything. Beiges and tans evoke sand and sun-kissed skin. Light grays and taupes keep things cool and relaxed. Neutrals go well with bright accent colors and give a calm, breezy summer mood.
Nautical Colors
Nautical color combinations are a summery choice, with their associations of sailing, beaches and relaxation near water. Classic nautical palettes include navy blue, white, red, yellow and sometimes dark green. These colors reference maritime signal flags and New England sailing culture. Nautical schemes remind us of sailors’ uniforms, preppy summer fashions, boating and Cape Cod style.
| Color | HEX Code |
|---|---|
| Navy Blue | #000080 |
| White | #FFFFFF |
| Red | #FF0000 |
| Yellow | #FFFF00 |
| Dark Green | #006400 |
Tropical Colors
Vibrant tropical colors remind us of exotic fruits, flowers and warm sunny climates. Hawaiian shirts and themes are full of bright island-inspired hues like pineapple yellow, mango orange, seafoam green, hibiscus pink and ocean turquoise. These joyful, playful colors evoke feelings of paradise vacation escapes.
Neon Colors
Electric, glowing neon shades have exploded in popularity in recent years and fit well with summer’s bold, lively attitude. Neon hues like lime green, hot pink, acid yellow and electric blue are flashy, youthful, 80’s-inspired colors. Neons pair excellently with summer’s bright primaries for an electrifying effect.
Earth Tones
Natural earth tones like terra cotta, olive green, taupe and sienna are fitting for summer’s laid-back vibe. Earth tones connect to the outdoors and remind us of camping trips, hikes and the wilderness. Paired with light neutrals, earth tones give a relaxed, organic summer mood.
Metallics
Shimmering metallics add glam and dazzle to summer fashion and decor choices. Gold, silver, bronze, pewter and copper instantly dress up an outfit. Metallic accessories catch the light beautifully at summer weddings and parties. Metallics pair gorgeously with neons for added flash.
| Metallic Color | HEX Code |
|---|---|
| Gold | #FFD700 |
| Silver | #C0C0C0 |
| Bronze | #CD7F32 |
| Pewter | #96A7AF |
| Copper | #B87333 |
Bold Graphic Prints
Lively colorful prints are perfect for summer’s playful fashion choices and home decor accents. Hawaiian floral prints, nautical stripes and dots,geometric patterns and tropical motifs add energy and whimsy. Paired with solids, prints in sunny colors catch the eye.
Watery Blues and Greens
Cool aquatic hues like sea glass blue, turquoise, teal and aqua evoke refreshing waters and tropical destinations. Paired with sand beiges, water blues and greens give off tranquil, paradise vibes for decor and spa-like bathrooms. Soft seafoam greens also connect to mermaids and fantasy.
Fruity Colors
Juicy fruit colors like watermelon pink, mango orange and lime green transport our senses to summer’s bounty. These playful flavors inspire cheery color palettes for summer cooking, entertaining and design. Vibrant fruity hues remind us of berry picking, ice pops andsunny citrus flavors.
Conclusion
In summary, bright warm hues, soft pastels, nautical classics and tropical shades are quintessential summer palette choices. Vibrant primary colors, watery blues, juicy fruit tones and breezy neutrals capture the mood. Metallics and bold prints add dazzle and interest. Whichever color combinations speak to you, embrace the vibrant mood and energy of summer!