Colours You Think Don’t Go Together - But Do
We’ve all grown up hearing the so-called “rules” of colour. Certain combinations are dismissed before they’re ever given a chance, labelled as clashing, awkward, or simply wrong. But when you look closer, many of these pairings don’t fail because they lack harmony - they fail because they’re misunderstood.
When handled with intention, unexpected colour combinations can feel modern, confident, and beautifully balanced. Here are a few pairings that prove the rules are made to be rewritten.
Red and Green “Should Never Be Seen”
Perhaps the most famous colour warning of all. Red and green instantly conjure thoughts of Christmas, and that’s exactly why the pairing is often avoided. But step away from bright festive tones and the story changes.
Think deep forest greens paired with rich burgundy, or muted sage alongside soft clay reds. Suddenly the combination feels grounded, warm, and timeless rather than seasonal. It’s not about avoiding the colours it’s about choosing the right shades and letting them breathe.
Black and Pink - Where Softness Meets Refinement
Often dismissed as either too girly or too stark, black and pink is a pairing that thrives on contrast. The softness of pink brings warmth and approachability, while black adds structure and depth.
When balanced carefully, this combination feels confident and refined - a meeting of delicacy and strength. Blush tones soften bold black, while deeper pinks introduce drama without losing elegance.
Navy and Black - Depth on Depth
Navy and black are frequently thought to be too similar, too dark, or too heavy together. But when layered thoughtfully, they create a sense of quiet luxury.
Navy brings warmth and richness, black adds sharpness and definition. Together, they offer depth rather than darkness; a pairing that feels timeless, polished, and effortlessly sophisticated.
Breaking the Rules Beautifully
Colour rules can be helpful guides, but they shouldn’t limit creativity. Often, the most striking combinations are the ones that challenge expectations and invite a second look.
By paying attention to tone, texture, and balance, even the most unlikely colour pairings can feel intentional and harmonious. Sometimes, it’s not about whether colours should go together - it’s about how confidently you let them.