Green is a versatile color that can work well with a variety of colors. Choosing the right colors to pair with green can create stylish and eye-catching color combinations. This article will explore the best color matches for green and provide examples of green color schemes for interior design, fashion, weddings, and more.
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What is Green Color?
Green is one of the primary colors in the visible spectrum. It lies between yellow and blue on the color wheel. Green is evoked by light with wavelengths between 495–570 nm. In the subtractive color system, used in painting and color printing, it is created by a combination of yellow and blue, or yellow and cyan.
In nature, green is the color of grass and leaves due to chlorophyll. It is closely associated with nature, spring, renewal and regrowth. The emotional implications of green include balance, refreshment, harmony, growth, environmental awareness, and ambition.
The Meaning and Symbolism of Green
Green has many emotional and cultural meanings. Here are some of the most common associations with the color green:
- Nature: Green represents the natural world of trees, grass, and forests. It is associated with growth, harmony, freshness, safety, fertility, and the environment.
- Spring: The season of spring is symbolized by green as plants regenerate after winter. Green is also associated with rebirth and renewal.
- Calm: Green is thought to be the most restful color for the human eye and helps alleviate anxiety. It represents tranquility, luck, and health.
- Envy: The expression “green with envy” refers to feelings of jealousy and resentment over the success of others.
- Money: In American culture, green represents money and the financial industry since paper currency is printed in shades of green.
- Right of way: Traffic lights turn green to signal that drivers can move forward. Green often indicates “go” as a sign of approval.
Shades of Green
There are many shades of green across the visible color spectrum. Here are some of the major green shades and their RGB values:
| Shade Name | Red Value | Green Value | Blue Value | Hex Value | Image |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Green Yellow | 173 | 255 | 47 | #ADFF2F | |
| Chartreuse | 127 | 255 | #7FFF00 | ||
| Spring Green | 255 | 127 | #00FF7F | ||
| Green | 128 | #008000 | |||
| Forest Green | 34 | 139 | 34 | #228B22 | |
| Sea Green | 46 | 139 | 87 | #2E8B57 | |
| Olive Green | 107 | 142 | 35 | #6B8E23 | |
| Dark Green | 100 | #006400 |
Complementary Colors of Green
Complementary colors sit opposite each other on the color wheel, creating high-contrast, vibrant combinations. The complement of green is red.
Red
True, primary reds offer the most pure, dynamic contrast against green. Fire engine, cherry, and tomato reds all make green pop. More muted reds like oxblood, burgundy, and maroon also complement green nicely.
Red injects energy into green’s calming essence. Together they represent nature, health, and renewal. Use red and green together during the holidays or in lively spaces like kids’ rooms. Or incorporate red accents into a primarily green interior, outfit, or other design.
Analogous Colors of Green
Analogous colors sit next to each other on the wheel, creating harmonious, subtle combinations. The analogous colors for green are:
Yellow-Green
Lighter chartreuse and lime greens maintain vibrancy without overwhelming deeper emerald and forest greens. Yellow-greens bring luminosity and visibility when paired with darker green shades. Use touches of yellow-green accessories or accents throughout a deeper green space.
Blue-Green
Teal and seafoam greens have a tranquil, watery feel that coordinates seamlessly with other greens. Their coolness balances warmer, earthier greens. Use varying green tones together for a nature-inspired palette. Try darker greens on the bottom and lighter blue-greens on top in an outfit.
Yellow
Pure yellow retains green’s brightness while injecting visibility and cheer. The pairing feels fresh and friendly. But too much yellow next to green can look loud and overwhelming. Use yellow sparingly or opt for soft buttery tones. Try yellow accent pieces like pillows, art, or decorative objects to add a splash of sunshine to a green room.
Triadic Colors for Green
Colors spaced evenly around the wheel create vibrant triadic combinations. The triadic colors for green are purple and orange.
Purple
Green and purple represent a blend of cool and warm. Their shared jewel tones create an affluent yet earthy look. Lighten purple with lilac and lavender for a feminine, romantic feel. Deepen it with eggplant and plum for drama. Use purple art, pillows, and accessories to accent a primarily green space.
Orange
Orange injects playfulness, warmth, and energy into green’s cool tranquility. But too much orange next to green can look jarring. Stick to warmer burnt oranges rather than bright citrus tones, which tend to clash with green. Use orange for accents only. Try burnt orange pillows on a sage green sofa. Or wear an emerald dress with orange heels.
What Colors That Go With Green
Green is a versatile color that can work well with a variety of colors. Choosing the right colors to pair with green can create stylish and eye-catching color combinations.
Vibrant Green Color Palettes
Vibrant greens packed with energy look best with equally vivid accent colors. These fun, youthful combos are great for adding spirited color to modern spaces.
1. Bright Primary Colors
Hex Codes: #00FF00, #FF0000, #0000FF
The primary triad of green, red, and blue makes for an ultra vibrant palette. Mixing bright greens with true red and blue creates high-contrast, complementary colors perfect for playrooms, kids’ spaces, and funky modern decor.
2. Lime Green, Coral, Navy Blue
Hex Codes: #BFFF00, #FF7F50, #000080
For a punchy tropical vibe, pair lively lime green with fiery coral and deep navy blue. This beachy combo reminds us of ocean reefs and is great for bathrooms, bedrooms, and beach houses.
3. elly Green, Yellow, Black
Hex Codes: #4CBB17, #FFFF00, #000000
Kelly green with cheerful yellow and classic black makes for a retro, mod color scheme. The black grounds the brights, creating a hip dynamic look perfect for media rooms, offices, and eclectic spaces.
4. Green, Fuchsia, Burnt Orange
Hex Codes: #00FF00, #FF00FF, #CC5500
Match green with playful fuchsia and earthy burnt orange for a youthful palette with pizzazz. This spirited combo is ideal for kids’ rooms, game rooms, and anywhere you want to create a lively, fun mood.
Earthy Green Color Combinations
Muted earthy greens work seamlessly with natural neutrals like brown, tan, taupe, and greige. These harmonious palettes have an organic, cozy feel perfect for rustic decor.
5. Olive Green, Sand, Chocolate Brown
Hex Codes: #808000, #C2B280, #412F1F
Olive green mixed with warm sand and rich chocolate brown creates natural harmony. This countryside palette is perfect for living rooms, bedrooms, and craftsman style homes.
6. Sage Green, Khaki, Chestnut
Hex Codes: #BCCB7A, #C3B091, #954535
Pair soft sage green with versatile khaki and deep chestnut brown for an earthy combo with lots of depth. Use this palette in dining rooms, libraries, offices, and rustic cabins.
7. Moss Green, Beige, Espresso
Hex Codes: #8FBC8F, #F5F5DC, #4E342E
Moss green with creamy beige and dark espresso brown create a soothing, grounded palette. This is a great color scheme for living rooms, bedrooms, and spa-like spaces.
8. Mint Green, Greige, Dove Gray
Hex Codes: #98FF98, #C7C7C7, #707070
Mix cool mint green with versatile greige and soft dove gray for an earthy combo with a light springtime vibe. Use in kitchens, bathrooms, and casual living spaces.
Sophisticated Green Color Schemes
Deep emerald greens and hunter greens look striking with rich blues, jewel tone accents, and classic black and white. These combos are ideal for formal spaces.
9. Forest Green, Gold, Black
Hex Codes: #228B22, #FFD700, #000000
Dark forest green contrasted with glamorous gold accents and sharp black details makes for a luxe, dramatic palette. Use this in dining rooms, home offices, libraries, and traditional spaces.
10. Emerald Green, Silver, Charcoal
Hex Codes: #50C878, #C0C0C0, #808080
Sophisticated emerald green pairs beautifully with metallic silver and heathered charcoal gray accents. This elegant palette is perfect for living rooms, bedrooms, and formal dining rooms.
11. Hunter Green, Burgundy, Black
Hex Codes: #355E3B, #800020, #000000
Rich hunter green with deep burgundy accents and classic black makes for an intensely regal palette. Use this combination in traditional rooms, libraries, studies, and offices.
12. Jade Green, Navy Blue, Bronze
Hex Codes: #00A86B, #000080, #CD7F32
Pair jewel-toned jade green with nautical navy blue and glam bronze accents for a dramatic, upscale combination. This works well in dining rooms, entryways, and formal living spaces.
Soft Pastel Green Palettes
Light greens work beautifully with other soft pastels like lavender, peach, light pink, and butter yellow. These combos create a delicate, dreamy aesthetic.
13. Seafoam Green, Lavender, Peach
Hex Codes: #7FFFD4, #B57EDC, #FFE5B4
Soothing seafoam green complements sweet lavender and warm peach perfectly. Use this feminine palette in bedrooms, bathrooms, and cozy living spaces.
14. Mint Green, Baby Blue, Blush Pink
Hex Codes: #B6FFC8, #C3D7EA, #FFC0CB
Mix fresh mint green with airy baby blue and delicate blush pink for a soft spring-inspired palette. This combo is perfect for kids’ rooms, bathrooms, and cottages.
15. Honeydew Green, Buttercup Yellow, Lilac
Hex Codes: #F0FFF0, #FCE883, #C8A2C8
Sweet honeydew green pairs perfectly with cheery buttercup yellow and dreamy lilac. Use this fun pastel palette in kitchens, girl’s bedrooms, and whimsical living spaces.
16. Celery Green, Rose, Wisteria Purple
Hex Codes: #C3FDB8, #FF007F, #CAA2DD
Matching cooling celery green with romantic rose and soft wisteria purple creates a beautiful vintage-inspired palette. Use this combo in shabby chic rooms, reading nooks, and bedrooms.
Gray Green Color Combinations
Gray greens work well with lighter neutrals like pearl gray, alabaster white, and pale blues. These tranquil palettes are perfect for serene, minimalist spaces.
17. Celadon, Dove Gray, Eggshell White
Hex Codes: #A4F7B5, #707070, #F0EAD6
Pair calming celadon green with heathered dove gray and clean eggshell white for a relaxed, minimalist palette. Use this combination in living rooms, bedrooms, and spa-like spaces.
18. Glaucous, Light Gray, White
Hex Codes: #6082B6, #D3D3D3, #FFFFFF
Mix soothing glaucous green with soft light gray and bright white for an airy, ethereal palette. This works well in bathrooms, kitchens, and modern tranquil spaces.
19. Silver Green, Pearl Gray, Whisper White
Hex Codes: #C0F0B6, #EAE0DA, #F9F5EB
Silver green with warm pearl gray and whisper white accents makes for a lightweight, breezy color combination. Use this in bedrooms, sitting rooms, and cottages or cabins.
20. Aqua Green, Dusty Blue, Ivory
Hex Codes: #7FFFD4, #B5CFE0, #FFFFF0
Combine cooling aqua green with hazy dusty blue and creamy ivory for a relaxed coastal palette. This works in bathrooms, kitchens, sunrooms, and beach cottages.
Vintage Green Color Schemes
Muted sage greens complement classic vintage combo colors like terracotta, mustard yellow, brick red and rosy pink beautifully. These timeless palettes work in traditional and boho spaces.
21. Sage Green, Terracotta, Mustard Yellow
Hex Codes: #C0FFC3, #E2725B, #FFDB58
Sage green with earthy terracotta and bright mustard yellow makes for a warm, eclectic palette perfect for boho living rooms, bedrooms, and patios.
22. Artichoke Green, Brick Red, Blush Pink
Hex Codes: #8F9779, #B22222, #F8C3CD
Match muted artichoke green with classic brick red and rosy blush pink for a vintage-chic palette. Use this timeless combo in traditional dining rooms, studies, and reading nooks.
23. Olive Green, Terracotta, Sky Blue
Hex Codes: #BAB86C, #E2725B, #89CFF0
Olive green mixed with orangey terracotta and bright sky blue makes for a mediterranean-style palette. Use this in kitchens, dining rooms, and al fresco spaces.
24. Avocado Green, Deep Rose, Charcoal
Hex Codes: #87A96B, #B76E79, #333333
Pair retro avocado green with dramatic deep rose and mood charcoal accents for a glam-boho palette. This works in living rooms, bedrooms and eclectic spaces.
High Contrast Green Color Palettes
Deep jewel-toned greens pop when paired with equally rich, intense accent colors like ruby red, sapphire blue, and violet. These dramatic combos make a statement.
25. Jewel Green, Ruby Red, Gold
Hex Codes: #1CAC78, #A2142F, #D4AF37
Matching vivid jewel green with luxurious ruby red and shimmering gold creates a regal Gatsby-inspired palette. Use this combo in formal dining rooms and glamorous spaces.
26. Malachite Green, Sapphire Blue, Plum
Hex Codes: #0BDA51, #0F52BA, #130138
Malachite green complements intense sapphire blue and moody plum perfectly for a striking palette. This works well in bold eclectic spaces and media rooms.
27. Emerald Green, Eggplant Purple, Crimson
Hex Codes: #50C878, #990066, #DC143C
Deep emerald green makes an opulent statement when matched with eggplant purple and crimson accents. Use this dramatic palette in formal living rooms and dining rooms.
28. Forest Green, Indigo Blue, Violet
Hex Codes: #2A581E, #4B0082, #8B00FF
Dark forest green with inky indigo blue and vivid violet creates harmonious contrast. This mystical palette is perfect for home theaters, libraries, and lounge spaces.
Green and Warm Neutral Palettes
Earthy olive greens work seamlessly with warm neutrals like sand, almond, and muted orange. These harmonious combos have a natural, organic feel.
29. Khaki, Almond, Olive Green
Hex Codes: #C3B091, #EED9C4, #808000
Khaki, creamy almond, and olive green make for a soothing, grounded color palette. Use this combo in casual living spaces, bedrooms, and bathrooms.
30. Sand, Paprika, Artichoke Green
Hex Codes: #EDC9AF, #E94E3D, #8F9779
Mix warm sand with spicy paprika orange and earthy artichoke green for a rustic palette. Use in farmhouse kitchens, cottages, and outdoor living spaces.
31. Beige, Clay, Juniper Green
Hex Codes: #F5F5DC, #B66A50, #88BB88
Beige, terracotta clay, and sage juniper green create natural harmony. Use this palette in living rooms, bedrooms, and home offices.
32. Buff, Adobe, Spruce Green
Hex Codes: #F0DC82, #BD846E, #0A5F38
Pair warm buff with orangey adobe and deep spruce green for an inviting, earthy vibe. This works in rustic cabins, boho spaces, and country kitchens.
Green and Cool Neutral Color Schemes
Refreshing aqua greens complement breezy blues and chilled grays beautifully. These laidback combos work well in tranquil spaces.
33. Duck Egg Blue, Dove Gray, Sea Green
Hex Codes: #C3F0F7, #707070, #2E8B57
Duck egg blue, heathered dove gray, and cool sea green create a relaxed coastal palette. Use in bathrooms, bedrooms, kitchens, and sunrooms.
34. Sky Blue, Flint Gray, Malachite Green
Hex Codes: #89CFF0, #6D7B8D, #0BDA51
Air sky blue with stony flint gray and jewel-toned malachite green is a bold yet breezy combo. Perfect for modern living rooms and patios.
35. Ice Blue, Ash Gray, Laurel Green
Hex Codes: #D7F0FA, #C2BEC0, #A9BA9D
Matching icy blue with weathered ash gray and soft laurel green results in a soothing, laidback palette. Use in bedrooms, bathrooms and reading nooks.
36. Baby Blue, Steel Gray, Mint Green
Hex Codes: #A2CFFE, #758393, #98FF98
Sweet baby blue complements sophisticated steel gray and fresh mint green beautifully. Use this palette in kitchens, offices, or anywhere that needs a serene feel.
Green With Metallic Accents
Glittering metallics like champagne gold, rose gold, and shiny silver make luxe accent colors that enhance deep greens gorgeously.
37. Emerald Green, Gold, Silver
Hex Codes: #11732B, #E8AA42, #ACACAC
Rich emerald green pops beautifully when matched with glam gold and sleek silver accents. Use this elegant palette in formal dining rooms and elegant spaces.
38. Forest Green, Rose Gold, Pewter
Hex Codes: #0B5509, #CD7F32, #919191
Deep forest green looks striking with rosy rose gold and silvery pewter metallic accents. Perfect for living rooms, bedrooms, and glam spaces.
39. Bottle Green, Bronze, Gunmetal
Hex Codes: #095646, #774D14, #2B3856
Jewel-toned bottle green complements industrial bronze and gunmetal accents seamlessly. Great for bold dining rooms, offices, and contemporary lofts.
40. Avocado Green, Brass, Champagne
Hex Codes: #B5CE3F, #B28F2E, #F7E7CE
Retro avocado green looks ultra glamorous when mixed with bright brass and bubbly champagne accents. Use in eclectic spaces, bars, and lounges.
Best Green Color Combinations By Room
Discover beautiful green color schemes to make each room feel invigorating and serene.
Inviting Living Room Green Color Palettes
The living room is often the heart of the home, so selecting an appealing color palette is key. Green hues in the living room create a warm, welcoming atmosphere for family and guests. Here are rejuvenating green color combinations perfect for living rooms:
41. Celadon Green, Dove Gray, Eggshell White
Hex Codes: #A4F7B5, #707070, #F0EAD6
With relaxing celadon green as the main wall color, accented by heathered dove gray furniture and clean eggshell white trims, you get a soothing minimalist palette. The cool tones are calming and zen.
Relaxing Bedroom Color Schemes With Green
Green is a natural color to help create a peaceful, relaxing atmosphere perfect for bedrooms. Here are rejuvenating green color combinations for the ultimate cozy bedroom:
42. Khaki Green, Almond, Olive Green
Hex Codes: #C3B091, #EED9C4, #808000
Mix versatile khaki green with creamy almond furniture and rich olive green textiles for an earthy, welcoming bedroom palette. The natural tones are calming and serene.
43. Laurel Green, Ash Gray, Ice Blue
Hex Codes: #A9BA9D, #C2BEC0, #D7F0FA
Soothing laurel green complements weathered ash gray wood and icy blue accents in this laidback bedroom palette. It’s perfect for creating a relaxing retreat.
Vibrant Green Kitchen Color Combinations
The kitchen is the energetic hub of the home, so vibrant green palettes help create an invigorating atmosphere. Here are rejuvenating green color schemes for stylish kitchen designs:
44. Mint Green, Steel Gray, Baby Blue
Hex Codes: #98FF98, #758393, #A2CFFE
Playful mint green cabinetry topped with silvery steel gray countertops and sweet baby blue kitchen accents makes for a soothing, vibrant combo.
Soothing Bathroom Color Palettes With Green
Green and blue hues are ideal for creating a soothing spa-like atmosphere in bathrooms. Here are the most relaxing green bathroom color combinations:
45. Glaucous Green, Light Gray, White
Hex Codes: #6082B6, #D3D3D3, #FFFFFF
For a clean, airy aesthetic try pairing glaucous green walls with light gray tiles and accents, and bright white fixtures. The palette is both refreshing and tranquil.
46. Laurel Green, Dove Gray, Eggshell White
Hex Codes: #A9BA9D, #707070, #F0EAD6
Laurel green walls complemented by weathered dove gray floor tiles and clean eggshell white accents makes for a relaxed, minimalist bathroom palette.
47. Sea Green, Sand, Soft Blue
Hex Codes: #3FA876, #F1E9D2, #B9D9EB
Playful sea green walls contrast beautifully with warm sand floor tiles and pretty soft blue bathroom accessories. The beachy combo is cheerful and calm.
Cozy Green Color Combinations for Bedrooms
Bedrooms should feel like a peaceful sanctuary, so it’s important to choose cozy, soothing green color palettes:
48. Celadon Green, Pearl Gray, Whisper White
Hex Codes: #A7F0BA, #EAE0DA, #F9F5EB
With celadon green walls, warm pearl gray furnishing, and whisper white linens, you get a relaxed, breezy bedroom palette. Perfect for a cottage or farmhouse.
49. Seafoam Green, Sand, Soft Blue
Hex Codes: #7FFFD4, #F1E9D2, #B9D9EB
Cool seafoam green complements warm sand tones and pretty soft blue accents beautifully in bedrooms. The beachy wall color is peaceful and refreshing.
50. Moss Green, Taupe, Eggshell White
Hex Codes: #ADC908, #B7A99B, #F0EAD6
Moss green walls create a relaxing backdrop, while creamy taupe and bright eggshell white bedding and accents keep the bedroom feeling airy.
51. Sage Green, Light Gray, Driftwood
Hex Codes: #9FE3A2, #D3D3D3, #C7BFA8
Soft sage green walls paired with weathered driftwood furniture and light gray linens makes for a soothing, grounded bedroom palette.
Vibrant Green Dining Room Color Schemes
The dining room is where family and friends gather to enjoy food and conversation. Vibrant green palettes help set a warm, convivial mood.
52. Green Apple, Gold Accents, Black Chairs
Hex Codes: #5EDC76, #D8B644, #1B1B1B
Cheerful green apple walls make a lively backdrop for glam gold accents and sophisticated black dining chairs for lively elegance.
53. Emerald Green, Silver Accents, Gray Upholstery
Hex Codes: #1CAC78, #C6C6C6, #C1C7B4
Emerald green walls with glimmering silver decor accents pop against light gray upholstered dining chairs. The cool tone green is invigorating.
54. Mint Green, Copper Accents, White Wainscoting
Hex Codes: #EBF5DF, #C69E6F, #FFFFFF
Mint green dining room walls complemented by warm copper accents and crisp white wainscoting makes for a fresh, lively palette.
55. Hunter Green, Antique White Wainscoting, Black Ceiling
Hex Codes: #215E21, #FAF9F9, #000000
A dark hunter green dining room with traditional antique white paneled wainscoting and a moody black ceiling is bold and intimate.
56. Sage Green, Wood Furniture, Brick Accents
Hex Codes: #9DC183, #9C8A8B, #A94207
Earthy sage green dining walls with rustic wood dining furniture and terracotta brick wall accents creates a cozy, welcoming ambiance.
Avoid Overpowering Colors
Some shades overwhelm and drag out green in an unappealing way. Avoid pairing green with:
- Other medium to dark greens
- Neon brights like lime green
- Pure medium-to-bright oranges and yellows
These shades compete with green instead of complementing it. They create loud, visually jarring combinations. If using them, opt for small accents of neon brights or medium oranges and yellows. Keep the overall look grounded in light neutrals.
Darker jewel-tone greens can pair nicely. But medium-range greens tend to look drab and overcast together. Skip mixing mossy sage greens with hunter greens, for example. Instead, choose a dominant green and use the other for occasional accents.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best colors to pair with green?
Some of the best colors to pair with green include red, yellow, blue, purple, pink, gray, black, white, and brown. Warm shades like red, orange, and yellow contrast beautifully with green. Cooler tones like blue, purple, and pink create soothing combinations. Neutrals like gray, black, white, and brown complement green’s natural essence.
What color schemes work well in green rooms?
Green dining rooms can use sage green, cream, and terracotta for an earthy feel or emerald green, navy, and metallic gold for drama. Relaxing green bedrooms include seafoam green, lavender, and gray as well as olive green, dusty pink, and light brown for a boho look. Vibrant green kitchens may use mint, sky blue, and peach or go retro with avocado green, yellow, and red.
How do you incorporate green into an outfit?
Add an emerald green cocktail dress, olive pants with neutrals, a kelly green belt over black, or layer green with blue for preppy style. Green shoes, handbags, and jewelry make great accessories. Green eyeliner, eyeshadow, nail polish, and lipstick integrate green for beauty looks.
What are elegant green wedding color schemes?
Try an olive green, blush pink, and nude boho palette with dried florals. A hunter green, navy, and khaki scheme fits rustic weddings. Emerald green with gold and rose gold makes a glam vintage look. Deep emerald or jade green with black, white, and greenery is sophisticated.
What room does green work best in?
Green works well in many rooms but is especially popular for living rooms, bedrooms, and kitchens. Green evokes relaxation in bedrooms, vibrancy in kitchens, and an earthy feel in living rooms. Green also suits bathrooms, dining rooms, offices, and kids’ spaces. Adjust the shade and color scheme to fit the mood you want.
