16 Best Complimentary Colors for Blue

Blue is a popular choice in interior design because it’s calming, confident, and adaptable. From soft baby blue to deep navy, it can create moods that range from bright and airy to rich and dramatic. However, the true power of blue comes alive when paired with the right complementary colors.

On the color wheel, orange is traditionally blue’s complementary color. Yet, in design, shades like terracotta, warm beige, gold, and soft peach often work better. Neutral shades and cooler tones, like whites or silvers, can also balance blue beautifully. Below, I’ve compiled 16 hex codes for precision and 16 expert-recommended paint colors to pair with blue for striking results.

What Are Complimentary Colors and Why Do They Matter?

Complementary colors are opposites on the color wheel, creating contrast and balance when used together. Blue’s cool tones stand out when paired with warmer shades like coral, copper, or golden yellow.

For example:

• A deep navy wall accented with gold or brass tones adds warmth and depth.
• A soft sky-blue room paired with creamy whites and light peach creates a light, inviting feeling.

When choosing your complementary shades, consider undertones. Cooler blues work well with other cool colors like silvery grays, while warmer blues pair best with earthy or golden tones.

Hex Codes That Pair Beautifully with Blue

Here’s a list of 16 hex codes that complement blue in stunning ways:

1. Warm Terracotta (#E2725B) – Pairs wonderfully with navy blue, adding earthy warmth.
2. Soft Peach (#FFDAB9) – Brightens soft sky blue tones.
3. Golden Yellow (#FFD700) – A bold contrast for cobalt or royal blue accents.
4. Rusty Orange (#D35400) – Adds vibrancy to dark navy or denim blues.
5. Crisp White (#FFFFFF) – Works well with almost any shade of blue for a clean, fresh look.
6. Cool Light Gray (#D3D3D3) – Pairs nicely with cornflower or baby blues.
7. Charcoal Gray (#36454F) – Grounds lighter blues for a modern, dramatic effect.
8. Dusty Rose (#DCAE96) – A muted pink that softens cobalt blue tones.
9. Pale Blush Pink (#FFD1DC) – Adds a subtle touch to navy or slate blue.
10. Sandy Beige (#F5DEB3) – Compliments ocean-inspired teal blues.
11. Copper Brown (#B87333) – A bold choice for navy or deep royal blue.
12. Emerald Green (#50C878) – Adds a vibrant, energetic pop to indigo blues.
13. Steel Blue (#4682B4) – Creates a monochromatic look with lighter blues.
14. Burnt Sienna (#E97451) – A dramatic contrast to navy or deep blue walls.
15. Champagne (#F7E7CE) – A neutral, elegant pairing for softer blues.
16. Bright Scarlet (#FF2400) – A bold, eye-catching choice for dark blue accents.

These hex codes can help guide your choices when creating a cohesive design or curating accessories for your home.

Paint Colors That Compliment Blue

When designing with blue, it’s crucial to find paint colors that harmonize with its cool tones while adding depth and contrast. Here are 16 expertly chosen shades from Benjamin Moore and Sherwin Williams:

1. Benjamin Moore Classic Gray – A soft, warm gray that complements navy or cobalt blues beautifully.
2. Sherwin Williams Greek Villa – A creamy white that pairs well with pale sky blue walls.
3. Benjamin Moore Stonington Gray – A cool gray that highlights the crispness of medium or dark blues.
4. Sherwin Williams Tricorn Black – A bold, dramatic choice that contrasts perfectly with soft baby blues.
5. Benjamin Moore Sea Pearl – A delicate, off-white that enhances deeper blue accents.
6. Sherwin Williams Eider White – A subtle, gray-toned white ideal for balancing bold royal blue.
7. Benjamin Moore Pale Oak – A warm, beige-toned neutral that pairs effortlessly with teal or turquoise blues.
8. Sherwin Williams Silver Strand – A silvery-gray shade that complements denim or slate blues.
9. Benjamin Moore Cloud White – A classic soft white for clean, fresh pairings with periwinkle or powder blue.
10. Sherwin Williams Alabaster – A creamy, warm white that enhances the richness of navy tones.
11. Benjamin Moore Chelsea Gray – A mid-tone gray that grounds light and mid-tone blues.
12. Sherwin Williams Oyster Bay – A muted green-gray that pairs beautifully with soft aqua or teal blues.
13. Benjamin Moore Simply White – A bright white that energizes darker blue accents.
14. Sherwin Williams Dovetail – A deep gray with a touch of warmth, perfect for balancing slate or steel blues.
15. Benjamin Moore Wickham Gray – A light gray with cool undertones that complements brighter blues.
16. Sherwin Williams Inkwell – A near-black, moody shade that adds depth to soft or bold blues.

Quick Tips for Pairing Colors with Blue

• Consider the Mood: Lighter blues like sky or baby blue pair best with soft, warm tones for an airy feel. Deep blues like navy benefit from bold contrasts like gold or rust.
• Test Before Committing: Always sample your colors in the room’s lighting to see how they interact with blue shades.
• Add Texture: Complementary colors don’t always have to come from paint—use fabrics, metals, or wood tones for a layered effect.

Make Blue Shine

Blue is an inviting color that’s easy to work with, whether you’re designing a calm bedroom, a lively dining room, or a dramatic study. The right complementary colors can bring out the best in blue, adding balance and interest to your design.

Which combination are you most excited to try? I’d love to hear how you incorporate these colors into your next project!