Complementary Colors: A Simple Guide with Examples
What complementary colors are, why they pop, and how to use them in a UI without overwhelming the eye.
Shaheer Malik
Framer Designer & Developer
Complementary colors are pairs that sit opposite each other on the color wheel, like blue and orange. Put them together and each makes the other look more vivid, which is why complementary pairs feel so energetic.
This guide explains how complementary colors work and how to use them in design without clashing.
What are complementary colors?
They are two colors directly across from each other on the color wheel. The classic pairs are red and green, blue and orange, and yellow and purple. Because they are opposites, they create the strongest possible contrast.
Why complementary colors work
Opposite colors make each other appear brighter and sharper. That high contrast naturally draws the eye, which is perfect for a single element you want to stand out, like a call-to-action.
How to use complementary colors in a UI
- Use one color as the dominant base and the other only as an accent.
- Reserve the accent for the most important action, like a CTA.
- Avoid using both at full strength across large areas, since it tires the eye.
- Soften one with tints or shades if the pairing feels too intense.
- Keep text readable by checking contrast.
The 60-30-10 rule
A reliable way to use complementary colors is the 60-30-10 rule: 60 percent a dominant color, 30 percent a secondary, and 10 percent the complementary accent. That 10 percent is where the pop lives.
Frequently asked questions
What are complementary colors?
Two colors opposite each other on the color wheel, such as blue and orange, that create the highest contrast and make each other look more vivid.
What is the complementary color of blue?
Orange. Other classic pairs are red and green, and yellow and purple.
How do I use complementary colors without clashing?
Use one as the base and the other only as a small accent, and follow the 60-30-10 rule so the contrast highlights rather than overwhelms.
Are complementary colors good for websites?
Yes, used carefully. A complementary accent on a dominant base is a proven way to make key actions stand out. See types of color schemes for alternatives.
Need this palette working in a real product?
A good color scheme is the start; using it well across a UI is the craft. I design and build interfaces for SaaS and AI startups with palettes that fit the brand and pass accessibility. See my UI/UX design services, browse case studies, or get a fixed quote in 24 hours.
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