Green is one of the most all-purpose color in the color wheel. From bold emerald to airy mint, this color embodies nature, balance and creativity. But when it comes to design, finding the right color combination of green can take your project from basic to breathtaking.

In this guide, you’ll discover green complementary color schemes, stylish contrasts and trendy pairings for every aesthetic – from earthy to elegant. Whether you’re picking a curtain color for green walls or designing a digital masterpiece, these combinations will inspire your next bold move.

Classic combinations: Timeless pairings for green

What are the classic combinations for the color green

Some colors naturally coordinate with green, offering clean, calming or dramatic results depending on your palette.

  • White – Crisp, fresh and clean. A white and green pairing is effortless and elegant. Use it in minimalist branding or botanical web design.
  • Black – Bold and contemporary. Black grounds green’s vibrance, adding depth and sophistication.
  • Beige or cream – Perfect for softening stronger shades like forest or jade green. This combination creates a peaceful, natural look that’s great for interior palettes and product packaging.

Green’s complementary colors: Opposites attract

complementary colors that go with green

Looking at the color wheel, green’s direct complementary color is red. But there’s nuance in how you use that contrast.

  • Red – High contrast and full of energy. A rich burgundy or brick red balances green beautifully in modern palettes.
  • Pink – Blush or rose tones offer a soft, romantic contrast. Ideal for spring-themed designs or playful branding.
  • Coral – A slightly tropical, sun-kissed contrast to green. Coral and mint green make for an eye-catching, beachy combo.

Want to explore more green complementary color ideas? Dive into this guide on green color meanings to understand how different shades can shape emotion and style.

Earth-inspired hues that match green

earth colors that go with green

Since green is rooted in nature, earthy tones are natural companions.

  • Brown, tan, or terracotta – These grounded tones work beautifully with olive green or sage green, adding rustic charm and warmth.
  • Mustard yellow – Cozy and vintage, this pairing brings retro flair, especially when used in graphic design or home accents.
  • Burnt orange – This warm tone adds contrast without clashing, creating bold yet balanced visuals.

If you’re working with darker shades, check out trending green templates to see how terracotta and mustard pair in visual design.

Cool-toned contrasts: Calm and collected combos

cool colors that go with green

Balance green’s organic energy with cool or muted tones.

  • Blue – Navy, sky blue or teal all bring a serene vibe to green. Perfect for branding and editorial layouts.
  • Purple – Add a touch of mystique. Lavender or plum create an elegant, dreamy effect next to muted greens.
  • Gray – This sophisticated neutral works across all shades – from mint to emerald, especially in web design or interior decor.

If you’re leaning toward a minty palette, experiment with a color combination for mint green that features periwinkle or icy lavender for a breezy look.

Pop with metallics: Accents that shine

metallic colors that go with green

To elevate your green design, try metallic touches:

  • Gold – Warm and luxurious, especially stunning with dark green.
  • Copper – Adds a trendy, earthy edge – ideal for olive green or forest green.
  • Silver – Clean, modern and a perfect match for sage green.

Green and beyond: Find your perfect pairing

Whether you’re styling a room or building a brand, finding the right green color to match can set the mood and tell your story. Explore more about colors that go with green and how they can enhance your designs.

For even more inspiration, Picsart offers endless green templates to help you visualize your palette in real time – perfect for experimenting with colors that go with sage green, olive green, or mint green.

Final thoughts: Dive into the green spectrum

Green is far from one-note – it’s rich, nuanced and incredibly dynamic. With the right complementary shades and textures, you can tailor green to any mood, message or aesthetic.

From trendy color combinations for dark green interiors to digital designs that play with contrast, the possibilities are endless. Start creating with green and let it lead you to your next standout look.