Mint green and light pink together create a color combination that feels delicate and dreamy. This complementary color combination is excellent for businesses seeking to evoke a more feminine aesthetic, particularly in the fashion, beauty, and lifestyle industries.
12 modern business color palettes to elevate your branding
From theory to application — discover the psychology of color and how to strategically leverage its emotive abilities for your business’s branding.
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Capable of associating meaning and evoking profound emotion, color is key to building an effective brand identity. Here are 12 color combinations to consider for your brand’s color palette.
Color is incredible. This commonly shared cognitive experience of interpreting wavelengths of reflected light and assigning it to the perceived illusions that is what we call color is, well, mind-blowing. And when you consider that color can have universal associations that influence our perceptions and understandings over millennia – you can’t tell us that color isn’t one of the most fascinating human constructs, apart from time.
Consider that red isn’t hot. Blue isn’t cold. Brown isn’t cozy, and green isn’t earthy. If anything, these colors are merely combinations of hex codes that only bear meaning to those who aren’t visually impaired. It’s the association with meaning, however, that is the power behind color. When wielded with keen intentionality, color can be an incredible visual tool to convey emotion, create meaning, and subconsciously appeal to an audience.
Before harnessing the power of color for your business’s branding, however, we have to take a quick detour into color psychology and theory. Go on, get your notebook.
Understanding business color schemes
Color is a powerful device capable of evoking emotions, influencing behavior, and communicating meaning. Color psychology studies how color affects our thoughts, feelings, and behaviors; color theory focuses on how color combinations work together and affect our perception.
Color psychology
Color psychology studies how colors affect our thoughts, feelings, and behaviors based on the idea that different colors evoke different emotions and associations. For example, we often associate red with excitement, passion, and danger, while we associate blue with trustworthiness, reliability, and calmness. Breaking Bad was excellent at using color to set atmospheres, associate meanings, and establish moods throughout the series.
Color theory
Color theory studies how colors work together and affect our perception based on the three primary colors: red, yellow, and blue. As we learned in primary or elementary school, these colors combine to create all the secondary colors we know and love.
Color theory can also be used to create different color schemes: monochromatic, analogous, complementary, or triadic.
- Monochromatic— A monochromatic color scheme uses different shades and tints of the same color. This type of color scheme is simple and elegant, perfect for a more unified and cohesive look. For example, a business that sells minimalist or high-end products might use a monochromatic color scheme of black and white. Monochromatic schemes are seen in brands like Apple (black & white), Chanel (black & white), and Tiffany & Co (turquoise).
- Analogous— An analogous color scheme uses colors next to each other on the color wheel. This color scheme is harmonious and pleasing to the eye, ideal for creating a sense of balance and tranquility. For example, a business that sells organic products might use an analogous color scheme of green, yellow, and orange. Analogous schemes are seen in brands like Mastercard (red & orange) and Instagram (gradient yellow, orange, red, purple, blue).
- Complementary— A complementary color scheme uses colors opposite each other on the color wheel. This type of color scheme is bold and eye-catching, creating a sense of energy and excitement. For example, a business that sells fitness products might use a complementary color scheme of blue and orange. Complementary schemes are seen in brands like McDonald’s (red & bright yellow), Pepsi (red, white & blue), and Coca-Cola (red & white).
- Triadic— A triadic color scheme uses three colors evenly spaced around the color wheel. This type of color scheme is vibrant and dynamic, perfect for creating a visually appealing and engaging look. For example, a business that sells children’s toys might use a triadic color scheme of red, yellow, and blue. Triadic schemes are seen in brands like BMW (blue, white & black) and Google (red, yellow & blue).
Designers use these color schemes as color palettes for various design and marketing needs; your color scheme is a framework for choosing colors that are compatible, unified, and cohesive, while your color palette, or brand palette, is the specific set of color combinations you use across brand designs.
Choosing your business’ color scheme and palette
For businesses, choosing your color scheme and palette is key to creating those initial appeals to any particular audience. Color can construct a stronger brand personality that’s both influential and emotive. Keep in mind when choosing a color scheme and palette for your business, however, it is vital to first consider your brand identity, industry/sector, and target audience, including the overall tone you wish to convey.
- Consider your brand identity. What are your business’s core values and mission? What image are you seeking to project to your target audience?
- Consider your industry and competitors. What’s the industry standard, and how do you differentiate yourself from the competitors?
- Research your target audience. What colors are they likely to be drawn to? What emotions do you want them to feel when they see your business’s branding?
- Adhere to principles of color theory. Choose one color scheme as a framework to create the various color combinations. These combinations will make up your brand palette.
It’s worth doing more research on color psychology and theory before honing in on just any color combination. Truly evaluate the schemes and palettes that best align your business, audience, and industry to your desired messaging — leverage resources like ChatGPT or Google Bard if you need inspiration.
So, with everything sorted, let’s check out some modern business color palettes in action.
Meaning of the Color Lavender
Lavender is a gentle, yet vibrant hue that conveys both strength and delicateness. It’s known for its calming properties, making it an ideal choice for relaxation or introspection. Lavender also has the power to transform any space into one filled with positivity and joy. In terms of color psychology, lavender stands as a symbol of femininity and grace. This pastel purple shade can inspire feelings of creativity and romance while evoking a sense of calmness. It’s often used in interior design to create a soothing ambiance in living spaces, but it can be just as effective in other settings. Another interesting aspect about lavender is its ability to take on different shades depending on the light and environment around it. In bright sunlight, this tranquil hue will appear more vivid, while under dim lighting it takes on a soft and muted look.
Mixing lavender with other colors brings out unexpected effects that make the shade even more appealing. When blended with warm colors like yellow or orange, lavender gives off powerful energy; combined with cool tones like blue or green, it creates an atmosphere of serenity. The color lavender represents so much more than just a pretty hue. It has the power to evoke feelings of peace and tranquility while providing a boost in creativity and romance. Whether used as a wall color or in accessories, this pastel purple shade can bring life to any space.
Colors That Go With Lavender (with Color Palettes)
What a beautiful and elegant color lavender is! It’s perfect for adding warmth and softness to your decor. Here’s our best colors and color palettes that go perfectly with lavender:
1. Lavender and Sage (Color Palette)
Hex Codes:
- #434765
- #8E8EAD
- #9E9EFF
- #E6E6FA (lavender)
- #B2AC88 (sage green)
This elegant color palette combines the soft beauty of lavender with the calming serenity of sage green for a look that is perfect for any type of event or space. The light hues create an airy atmosphere that is sure to bring a sense of tranquility wherever it’s used. Lavender and sage are complementary colors, which means they help each other stand out while still creating a cohesive aesthetic.
2. Lavender and Mint Green (Color Palette)
Hex Codes :
- #e6e6fa (lavender)
- #b259b2
- #ff8bfe
- #9e9eff
- #98ff983 (mint green)
A beautiful combination of pastels, this cheerful color palette features vibrant shades of lavender and mint green. Perfect for spring-themed events or spaces, this palette creates an inviting atmosphere that will have everyone feeling refreshed and energized. This pairing also works well in modern interiors due to its balance between lightness and vibrancy.
3. Lavender and Soft Pink (Wedding Color Palette)
Hex Codes :
- #e6e6fa (lavender)
- #8e8ead
- #ffdee7
- #fff5de
- #deffde
The ultimate wedding color palette! A romantic blend of lavender and soft pink, this scheme captures the beauty of love like no other. Create an atmosphere filled with joyous energy by using this palette in your wedding décor. From the invitations to the flowers, lavender and soft pink will have everyone feeling like they’re celebrating a beautiful bond.
4. Lavender and Dusty Lavender (Color Palette)
Hex Codes :
- #a1759c (dusty lavender)
- #eeade6
- #e6e6fa (lavender)
- #835cae
- #eec4d3
This color palette is perfect for anyone who loves muted tones but still wants their space to stand out. Combining lavender with dusty lavender creates an earthy look that is sure to bring warmth into any room. The versatile shades can be used on walls, furniture, or artwork to create a unique atmosphere that reflects your personal style.
5. Lavender and Blue (Color Palette)
Hex Codes :
- #e6e6fa (lavender)
- #5555cc (blue)
- #c499ff
- #8261cc
- #99d1ff
A classic combination of two cool hues, this pairing of lavender and blue makes for a sophisticated aesthetic. With its subtle depth, this color scheme works well in both traditional and modern interior designs. Use these colors together to make a statement without being overly bold.
6. Lavender and Cream (Color Palette)
Hex Codes :
- #E6E6FA (lavender)
- #9E9EFF
- #474099
- #D9C8BF
- #FFFDD0 (cream)
Bringing together two timeless neutrals, this color palette combines the delicate beauty of lavender with the creamy richness of cream for an elegant look that never goes out of style. Perfect for living rooms or bedrooms, this look can also be used in office spaces if you want a more calming atmosphere.
7. Lavender and Green (Color Palette)
Hex Codes :
- #E6E6FA (lavender)
- #853FE8
- #C79EFF
- #DBFF9E
- #A7E048 (green)
For a fun yet balanced vibe, try combining lavender with green! This bright palette adds energy to any event or space while still maintaining a sense of sophistication thanks to its use of pastels and brights together. Whether it’s for your home or something special like a birthday party, this cheerful pairing will help make memories last.
8. Lavender and Grey (Color Palette)
Hex Codes :
- #E6E6FA (lavender)
- #9B7AC9
- #9A9A9F (grey)
- #B3B3BD
- #95B1C8
If you’re looking for a more neutral option then consider using lavender and grey together! This versatile combo allows you to incorporate pops of color without going too bold making it great for use in business settings as well as residential ones. Plus the different shades allow you to add texture without clashing colors.
9. Lavender and Cobalt Blue (Color Palette)
Hex Codes :
- #E6E6FA (lavender)
- #4C4C7B
- #0047AB (cobalt blue)
- #8282FA
- #C1C1FA
Make your next project stand out by using this stunning blend of dark blues! This vibrant shade pairs perfectly with light purple creating an eye-catching effect that won’t go unnoticed – whether it’s on paper or fabric! If you love drama then cobalt blue combined with lavender is just what you need.
10. Lavender and Mint (Color Palette)
Hex Codes:
- #9e9eff
- #e6e6fa (lavender)
- #19674b
- #3eb489 (mint)
- #95e7c9
The perfect mix between modernity and tradition? Look no further than mint paired with lavendar! This crisp combination evokes feelings of nostalgia while still providing enough vibrancy so it doesn’t feel outdated – making it ideal for those who are looking for something new but familiar at the same time. Plus, the light hues can easily be paired with other colors for added dimension.
Conclusion
Lavender is a beautiful, versatile color that can be used in just about any type of design. From weddings to home decor, lavender can bring a sense of serenity and sophistication to any space. It pairs wonderfully with many other colors including sage, mint green, soft pink, dusty lavender, blue, cream, green, grey, cobalt blue, and mint. By choosing the right combination of these complementary colors you can create stunning designs that will stand out from the crowd.
So if you want to add some beauty and elegance to your space or design project, don’t forget about the power of lavender! With its wide range of shades and coordinating color combinations, there’s no limit to the amazing designs you can create.
