Using a complementary color with lavender creates a bold, dramatic look. Complementary colors are found directly across from each other on the color wheel. Because they have no other color in common, complementary colors are opposites by nature. Lemon yellow is the complementary color to lavender.
Another bold look is to couple lavender with one or both of the colors on either side of lemon yellow, which is called a split-complementary color scheme. Salmon orange and mint green provide the split-complementary options. These very different shades would work best with lavender in a contemporary decor.
Analogous shades are those found next to each other on the color wheel and work in unison because they share a common color. For example, powder blue and pink are analogous to lavender. Lavender and powder blue both have the color blue at their base, while lavender and pink share the color red. Analogous color schemes reinforce traditional decor.
A monochromatic color scheme is achieved by layering varying shades of the same color. Lavender, eggplant, violet, grape, indigo, plum, orchid and lilac can all be used in one space for maximum visual impact.