Gray is a versatile neutral that allows for many sophisticated color combinations. From light grays to charcoal grays, many hues pair beautifully with different shades of gray.
In this article, we’ll explore over 45 colors that complement gray wonderfully. Discover elegant gray color palettes and schemes to use in your home decor, outfits, and designs.
Table of Contents
What is Gray?
Gray is an achromatic color, meaning it lacks hue and sits between black and white. It retains some lightness of white while mixing in the darkness of black.
Pure gray is typically shown as medium gray with a hex code of #808080. However, gray has many light, mid, and dark tones depending on how much black is added to the hue.
Gray is associated with neutrality, balance, subtlety, and refinement. It has a classic, timeless elegance.
The Meaning and Symbolism of Gray
Here are some of the common symbolic meanings associated with gray:
- Neutrality – Gray represents impartiality, composure, and balance without bias.
- Sophistication – In design, gray conveys elegance, refinement, and style.
- Professionalism – Gray projects authority and credibility in business contexts.
- Introversion – As a quiet hue, gray suggests modesty and subtlety.
- Fogginess – Pale grays evoke mist, clouds, and faded memories.
- Mourning – Historically, darker grays signify grief, sorrow, and loss.
- Security – Sturdy gray can represent shelter, resilience, and preparedness.
Shades of Gray
Gray has endless shades from nearly white to almost black. Here are some of the major types of gray:
| Color Name | Hex Code | Sample |
|---|---|---|
| Gainsboro Gray | #DCDCDC | |
| Light Gray | #D3D3D3 | |
| Silver Gray | #C0C0C0 | |
| Medium Gray | #808080 | |
| Charcoal Gray | #636363 | |
| Gunmetal Gray | #2F4F4F | |
| Slate Gray | #708090 | |
| Ash Gray | #B2BEB5 | |
| Smoke Gray | #8D99AE | |
| Granite Gray | #656D4A |
Complementary Colors of Gray
Complementary colors sit opposite each other on the color wheel, creating striking contrast. The complementary color for gray is yellow (#FFFF00).
Yellow (#FFFF00)
Yellow’s vibrant energy and warmth contrasts nicely with gray’s neutral coolness. Golden yellows, mustard, and lemon work best. Avoid neons.
Use yellow accents to brighten up gray tones. Add lemon throw pillows to a charcoal sofa. Paint a golden yellow accent wall in a gray room. Accessorize grayscale outfits with mustard or gold.
Analogous Colors of Gray
Analogous colors sit next to each other on the color wheel, creating harmonious combinations. Analogous colors for gray include:
Blue (#0000FF)
Cool blues like navy, cobalt, and steel blue share gray’s tranquil quality. Their deeper shades enhance light grays. Avoid neon blues.
Incorporate rich blues with gray for sophisticated appeal. Add navy blankets to a dove gray sofa. Contrast light gray suits with cobalt ties and pocket squares.
Violet (#EE82EE)
Soft violets and lavenders blend seamlessly with gray. They add subtle interest without overwhelming. Avoid bold magentas.
Use muted violets and lavenders for a refined gray palette. Paint a lavender accent wall in a gray room. Style light gray outfits with pale violet accessories.
Triadic Colors of Gray
The triadic colors for gray, equally spaced on the wheel, are red (#FF0000) and green (#00FF00).
Red (#FF0000)
Reds inject bold energy into tranquil gray backdrops. Brick, maroon, and cherry reds work best. Avoid fire engine reds.
Use reds conservatively to create defined contrast against grays. Add a maroon area rug to a charcoal living room. Pair medium gray trousers with a brick red sweater.
Green (#00FF00)
Natural greens provide an earthy complement to gray’s urban feel. Moss, sage, and forest greens are harmonious. Avoid lime greens.
Incorporate muted greens to soften gray environments. Display sage green plants in a gray office. Contrast a charcoal suit with a forest green tie or pocket square.
What Colors Go With Gray?
Here are over 45 colors that pair beautifully with different shades of gray for polished palettes:
Vibrant Gray Color Palettes
Energetic brights and bold rainbow hues give cool grays a lively pop of contrast. These combos add vibrant color to modern minimalist spaces.
1. Silver Gray, Fuchsia, Lime Green
Hex Codes: #C0C0C0, #FF00FF, #BFFF00
Sleek silver gray complements electric fuchsia and fresh lime green beautifully in this playful, psychedelic color scheme. Great for kids’ rooms needing a neutral backdrop.
2. Light Gray, Persimmon Orange, Robin’s Egg Blue
Hex Codes: #D3D3D3, #EC4E20, #1CAC78
Soft light gray furniture lets vibrant persimmon orange and playful robin’s egg blue decor shine. The gray beautifully tones down the brights.
3. Pewter Gray, Yellow, Turquoise
Hex Codes: #798A97, #FBC15E, #04CFAD
Sophisticated pewter gray walls punctuated by lively golden yellow and refreshing turquoise accents makes for an energizing, modern palette.
4. Charcoal Gray, Coral, Seafoam Green
Hex Codes: #333D49, #FF7F50, #B5EAD7
Dramatic charcoal gray furniture lets energetic coral and soothing seafoam green decor take center stage in this family room.
5. Cool Gray, Cerulean Blue, Apple Green
Hex Codes: #95A3B3, #2A52BE, #63FF3C
Versatile cool gray walls beautifully showcase electric cerulean blue and crisp apple green accents. Great for home offices and studios.
6. Heather Gray, Cardinal Red, Butter Yellow
Hex Codes: #B6B095, #C41E3A, #F1E9C5
Warm heather gray complements bold cardinal red dining chairs and cheerful butter yellow place settings nicely in this dining room.
Earthy Gray Color Combinations
Natural grays like dove and taupe complement wood tones, leather, linen and stone beautifully. These organic palettes have a relaxed boho vibe.
7. Dove Gray, Jute, Dark Walnut
Hex Codes: #707070, #CCC19F, #6E3C12
Soothing dove gray walls enhanced by textural natural jute rugs and dramatic dark walnut beams create an inviting boho interior.
8. Heather Gray, Sandstone, Saddle Leather
Hex Codes: #B6B095, #C38855, #8B4513
Warm heather gray walls complemented by organic sandstone finishes and rich saddle brown leather furniture creates natural elegance.
9. Charcoal Gray, Oak Wood, Linen
Hex Codes: #333D49, #A88F5D, #FAF0E6
Bold charcoal gray walls let warm oak wood bookshelves and breezy natural linen upholstery shine as cozy boho accents.
10. Dusty Gray, Jute, Espresso Stain
Hex Codes: #929598, #CCC19F, #4E342E
Muted dusty gray dining room lets natural jute rug and deep espresso wood table make an earthy style statement.
11. Cloudy Gray, Denim, Chestnut Brown
Hex Codes: #B9BFC1, #1560BD, #7B3F00
Light cloudy gray walls complement casual denim upholstery and rich chestnut brown leather club chairs perfectly in this laidback living room.
12. Taupe, Chambray, Walnut Stain
Hex Codes: #B1BBB4, #375E97, #6E3C12
Subtle taupe walls enhanced by soft chambray blue bedding and dramatic black walnut nightstands makes an inviting, earthy bedroom retreat.
Retro Gray Color Schemes
Cool grays complement retro teals, sunny yellows and cherry reds beautifully. These fun vintage combos create spirited charm.
13. Charcoal Gray, Seafoam Green, Sunshine Yellow
Hex Codes: #333D49, #B4FFE6, #FFFF00
Bold charcoal gray complements playful retro seafoam green cabinets and cheerful sunshine yellow backsplash tiles perfectly in this cottage kitchen.
14. Heather Gray, Avocado Green, Scarlet Red
Hex Codes: #B6B095, #568203, #FF2400
Warm heather gray walls let groovy avocado green furniture and sensational scarlet red bar stools shine in this 70s-inspired basement lounge.
15. Silver Gray, Turquoise, Cherry Wood
Hex Codes: #C0C0C0, #06BCC1, #B45F1B
Sleek silver gray walls complement refreshing retro turquoise tile backsplash and reclaimed cherry wood counters beautifully. Great for a cottage kitchen remodel.
16. Light Gray, Olive Green, Brick Red
Hex Codes: #D3D3D3, #6B8E23, #B22222
Soft light gray walls let earthy olive green wainscoting and traditional brick red window sashes shine in this heritage exterior.
Soothing Gray Color Palettes
Pale grays create an ethereal, dreamy feeling when paired with other light neutrals like greige, blush and pearl white. These combos evoke tranquility.
17. Silver Gray, Blush, Pale Blue
Hex Codes: #C0C0C0, #F8C3CD, #DBF0F7
Sleek silver gray furniture paired with rosy blush and breezy pale blue accents creates bright, airy elegance. A versatile palette that works in any room.
18. Light Gray, Lavender, Greige
Hex Codes: #D3D3D3, #C8A2C8, #C7C7C7
Cool light gray walls beautifully complement soothing lavender accents and versatile greige furnishings. A relaxing combo for bedrooms and living rooms.
19. Cloud Gray, Aqua, Pearl White
Hex Codes: #B9BFC1, #D4F7FA, #FDEEF4
Light cloud gray walls make refreshing aqua decor and pearly pearl white trim pop in this ethereal bathroom.
20. Dove Gray, Buttercream, Driftwood
Hex Codes: #707070, #F3EBC2, #C7BFA8
Peaceful dove gray walls enhanced by creamy buttercream accents and weathered driftwood finishes create laidback cottage style.
21. Heather Gray, Sky Blue, Almond Cream
Hex Codes: #B6B095, #89D4CF, #EED9C4
Warm heather gray walls complemented by breezy sky blue accent chairs and organic almond cream upholstery create soothing contrast.
22. Silver Gray, Lilac, Linen White
Hex Codes: #C0C0C0, #C8A2C8, #FAF0E6
Sleek silver gray casegoods pop against airy lilac walls and natural linen white bedding in this romantic, ethereal bedroom.
Cool Gray Color Combinations
Blue-undertoned grays work well with other blues and cool pastels to create serene, refined palettes. These versatile combos are perfect for relaxed spaces.
23. Blue Gray, Ice Blue, White
Hex Codes: #BEC9CE, #DBF0F7, #FFFFFF
Hazy blue gray walls complemented by icy blue accents and bright white trim keeps things light and airy. Use this versatile combo in any room.
24. Pewter Gray, Periwinkle Blue, Greige
Hex Codes: #798A97, #CCCCFF, #C7C7C7
Sophisticated pewter gray casegoods shine against pretty periwinkle blue walls and versatile greige upholstery. Elegant and easygoing.
25. Cool Gray, Powder Blue, Pearl White
Hex Codes: #95A3B3, #B0E0E6, #FDEEF4
Versatile cool gray walls beautifully showcase dreamy powder blue furnishings and pearly pearl white architectural details.
26. Cadet Gray, Duck Egg Blue, Cream
Hex Codes: #95A3B3, #C3FBF4, #FFFFF0
Muted cadet gray walls contrast nicely with serene duck egg blue furniture and warm cream accents. A versatile combo for coastal cottages.
27. Cloudy Gray, Lavender, Bone White
Hex Codes: #B9BFC1, #B57EDC, #F8F4E8
Light cloudy gray walls enhanced by airy lavender and organic bone white makes for an ethereal, minimalist palette. Perfect for bedrooms and bathrooms.
Rich Gray Color Palettes
Charcoal, pewter and cool grays look ultra-sophisticated accented with jewel tones and metallics. These bold combos create stylish drama.
28. Charcoal Gray, Amethyst Purple, Brass
Hex Codes: #333D49, #9678B6, #BCA642
Bold charcoal gray complements regal amethyst purple dining chairs and glimmering brass light fixtures for refined contrast.
29. Pewter Gray, Sapphire Blue, Rose Gold
Hex Codes: #798A97, #0F52BA, #B76E79
Sleek pewter gray walls punctuated by rich sapphire blue velvet armchairs and glamorous rose gold accents create contemporary elegance.
30. Cool Gray, Emerald Green, Copper
Hex Codes: #95A3B3, #028A0F, #B66325
Sophisticated cool gray complements vibrant emerald green plants and warm glimmering copper planters for an inviting indoor garden palette.
31. Cloudy Gray, Eggplant Purple, Champagne Gold
Hex Codes: #B9BFC1, #3F012C, #F1DDCC
Light cloudy gray walls dramatically showcase decadent eggplant purple velvet sofas and bubbly champagne gold accents. Lavish and exotic.
Vintage Gray Color Combinations
Gray nicely complements heritage hues like denim blue, antique white and reclaimed wood. These timeless combos evoke old-world charm.
32. Heather Gray, French Blue, Rustic Wood
Hex Codes: #B6B095, #436CB9, #7B3F00
Warm heather gray walls complement classic French blue wainscoting and reclaimed rustic wood beams for timeless character. Perfect for studies and dining rooms.
33. Dove Gray, Antique White, Olive Green
Hex Codes: #707070, #FAEBD7, #6B8E23
Peaceful dove gray walls enhanced by timeworn antique white trim and organic olive green shutters makes for a charming vintage exterior.
34. Silver Gray, Denim Blue, Cherry Wood
Hex Codes: #C0C0C0, #1560BD, #B45F1B
Sleek silver gray casegoods pop against faded denim blue walls and reclaimed cherry wood butcher block countertops in this industrial kitchen.
35. Charcoal Gray, Terracotta, Sunshine Yellow
Hex Codes: #333D49, #E2725B, #FFFF00
Bold charcoal gray contemporary furnishings contrast beautifully with organic terracotta vases and cheerful sunshine yellow pillows.
High Contrast Gray Color Schemes
Crisp grays dramatically punctuate bold primary colors and vivid rainbow brights. These combos grab attention for maximum impact.
36. Cool Gray, Primary Blue, Safety Orange
Hex Codes: #95A3B3, #0804F9, #FF6700
Sleek cool gray provides the perfect neutral backdrop for vibrant primary blue and energetic safety orange accents. Youthful and fun.
37. Cloudy Gray, Cardinal Red, Lime Green
Hex Codes: #B9BFC1, #C41E3A, #BFFF00
Soft cloudy gray wainscoting lets bold cardinal red bookcases and electric lime green desk chair pop for exciting contrast.
38. Light Gray, Cyan, Sunshine Yellow
Hex Codes: #D3D3D3, #00FFFF, #FFFF00
Subtle light gray walls allow electric cyan furniture and cheerful sunshine yellow accents stand out dramatically. Vibrant yet sophisticated.
39. Heather Gray, Fuchsia, Robin’s Egg Blue
Hex Codes: #B6B095, #FF00FF, #1CAC78
Warm heather gray walls beautifully balance shocking fuchsia shelving and playful robin’s egg blue cabinetry in this eclectic kitchen.
40. Silver Gray, Yellow, True Red
Hex Codes: #C0C0C0, #FFEB3B, #FF0000
Sleek silver gray ceilings and bright white trim make vibrant yellow pendant lights and bold true red shelving pop delightfully.
Gray and Pastel Color Schemes
Cool grays complement soft pastels like blush pink, mint green and pale yellow beautifully. These dreamy combos evoke ethereal charm.
41. Blue Gray, Lavender, Seafoam
Hex Codes: #BEC9CE, #C8A2C8, #B4FFE6
Hazy blue gray walls punctuated by airy lavender and refreshing seafoam accents makes a lovely, relaxing springtime palette.
42. Pewter Gray, Peach, Periwinkle Blue
Hex Codes: #798A97, #FFCBA4, #C5C9EA
Sleek pewter gray casegoods complement juicy peach orange pillows and pretty periwinkle blue drapes nicely.
43. Light Gray, Buttercream, Robin’s Egg Blue
Hex Codes: #D3D3D3, #F3EBC2, #1CAC78
Subtle light gray walls let warm buttercream accents and playful robin’s egg blue decor shine as lively pops of color.
44. Dove Gray, Mint Green, Pale Yellow
Hex Codes: #707070, #C2FFC5, #FFFFC2
Peaceful dove grayprovides a soothing backdrop for refreshing mint green furniture and delicate pale yellow accents.
45. Heather Gray, Lilac, Powder Blue
Hex Codes: #B6B095, #C8A2C8, #B0E0E6
Warm heather gray walls complement pretty lilac textiles and dreamy powder blue ceramics beautifully. A romantic combination for bedrooms and bathrooms.
Design Tips for Decorating With Gray
Gray is versatile, elegant, and refined. Follow these tips when incorporating gray into your home:
- Use light grays in bedrooms for a soothing, relaxed aesthetic
- Mix medium gray with bold colors as an accent
- Pair gray with wood tones for a natural, organic look
- Combine gray and metallics like silver and gold for glamour
- Add charcoal gray to media rooms for sophisticated flair
- Incorporate granite gray kitchen backsplashes for earthy contrast
- Use gray alongside pastels for a feminine, romantic vibe
- Add gray throw pillows, rugs and linens throughout rooms
Frequently Asked Questions
What colors complement gray?
Whites, blacks, jewel tones, pastels, earth tones, and bright colors beautifully complement gray’s many elegant shades.
What colors should be avoided with gray?
Avoid pairing gray with other dull, muddy colors like olive or mustard green. Don’t combine extremely bright neons with gray.
What colors make gray pop?
Vibrant yellows, greens, reds, and oranges add nice contrast against gray backdrops. Crisp blacks and whites also make gray stand out.
What color furniture works with gray walls?
White, wood tone, black, navy, or yellow furniture look great against gray walls. Chrome and glass accent pieces also complement nicely.
What color bedding goes with gray paint?
White, cream, light blue, and subtle patterned bedding coordinate well with gray walls. Different shades of gray bedding can work too.
Final Takeaway
With its vast range of light, medium, and dark shades, gray offers many refined and nuanced color combinations. Use these elegant gray palettes in your home, outfits and designs to create a stylish, timeless look.