Avoid these pairings at all costs!

Some colours just go together—it's called colour theory. While we love the look of, let's say, blue and green together or when a room is colour drenched, it's hard to put your finger on combinations that just don't work. You need to see it to know. Instead of going to all the trouble of outfitting a room only to realize it doesn't look good, we're sharing a few hues that should never be side by side.

These are colour combinations you'll want to avoid when painting and decorating your home (and these are the ones you'll want to try).

1. Any Colour & Stark White

Although white is a neutral, and you may think any colour can look good with it, unless it's paired with a few different shades of warmer tones, it often falls flat. Adding just one colour as a pairing will look stark, uninviting, and uninteresting.

2. Purple & Orange

This outdated pairing reads "trying too hard." It's bright, a little attention-seeking, and too busy for the eye. While we love playing with bold colours, try softer hues of the same colours, like a lavender and a topaz.

3. Grey & Yellow

This combination just looks old. Both colours end up registering as dirty whites. While it used to be a pairing designers loved, especially when used with bold patterns, it's now seen as outdated and off-putting. If you want to use a bright and sunny colour with your greys, try pink or cobalt. 

Recommended

5 IKEA Finds Designers Would Buy For Themselves

By: Style At Home

Shop strategically at IKEA with these designer-approved picks.

Read More

Recommended

Pink Is The New Beige—20 Ways Designers Are Decorating With The Colour

By: Style At Home

From soft blush and cheery coral to dusky rose and muted mauve, we’re rethinking how we use pink in our homes. It’s time to put on your rose-tinted glasses and meet the colour of the moment.

Read More