Colors That Complement Brown

Choose the Shade of Brown

• Once you've decided to go with the color brown as a starting point, you'll have to decide what shade of brown. Dark browns are rich and earthy, while lighter browns can showcase wall hangings, pictures, and other wall decor. Possible shades include chocolate, oatmeal, fawn, and acorn.

Make a Statement

• Decide on the feel of your room. Reds, oranges, and bright yellows make a bold statement, but pairing them with brown can keep the bold under control. For a softer look, pair brown with blue, lavender, moss green, soft yellow or light pink. Brown can lend strength to a soft shade while the softer shade can make the brown feel fresh.

Colors and Patterns with Browns

• For a variety of colors with brown, consider using patterns that incorporate several different colors. A plaid with red, orange, blue, and green can allow room for accessorizing with many different colors. A red lamp or orange vase can bring out those shades in a plaid pillow or rug. Floral designs can allow you to bring out purples, blues, and pinks in room accessories to add life to brown walls, sofas, chairs, or carpet.

Tie the Look Together

• Remember that any color can be successfully paired with brown, since it's a mixture of the primary colors red, blue, and yellow. Whether you choose bolder colors or light, fresh colors, tie the shades together with lamps, lampshades, art, and other wall decor that incorporates your colors in varying shades. The warmth and richness of the browns will be complemented by any color, so be creative and use your imagination.