Periwinkle Color – Understanding the Periwinkle Color Palette

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Periwinkle color is a delicate and enchanting hue, evocative of the petals of a freshly bloomed flower. Its soft and soothing tones have a subtle yet undeniable allure, conjuring up images of misty meadows and tranquil ocean horizons. In our attempt to answer the question of “what color is periwinkle?”, we will come to understand its understated elegance and timeless appeal, as this is a color that never fails to capture the imagination and inspire the senses. Amongst this, we will also be delving into the periwinkle hex code for our digital artists out there, the many different shades of periwinkle, how to make your own periwinkle paint, as well as answering the age-old question: is periwinkle blue or purple?

What Color Is Periwinkle?

Describing the color periwinkle can be a delightful and nuanced exercise, as its many similar shades are each imbued with their own unique charm. Periwinkle, with its blend of pale blue and lavender undertones, is a shade that is often likened to the soft and delicate hues of blooming flowers, with lilac and lavender being amongst its closest kin. While periwinkle shares some similarities with these pastel purples, it also has a unique character that sets it apart.

The interplay between blue and purple creates a hue that is neither one nor the other, yet perfectly balanced in its own right.

It is a color that evokes a sense of nostalgia, reminiscent of misty ocean horizons and dusky skies. Periwinkle can also be compared to pale blue-gray shades, such as slate or mist, adding a touch of depth and richness to its overall appearance. In essence, periwinkle is a color that exudes an effortless elegance and timeless charm, making it a beloved hue among many.

Periwinkle Throughout Art History

Periwinkle, with its delicate blend of pale blue and lavender, has been a beloved hue throughout the history of art, inspiring some of the most stunning and ethereal works of art. From ancient frescoes to contemporary paintings, this color has been a favorite among artists, and has played an important role in creating some of the most iconic artworks of all time.

The Annunciation (1450) by Fra Angelico

In Renaissance art, periwinkle was used to evoke a sense of purity and piety in religious paintings. One such example is Fra Angelico’s “The Annunciation”, in which the Virgin Mary is depicted wearing a periwinkle robe, symbolizing her innocence and divine grace.

The Annunciation (1450) by Fra Angelico; Fra Angelico, CC BY 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Primavera (1482) by Sandro Botticelli

Another famous work, Botticelli’s “Primavera”, features periwinkle-hued flowers blooming in the foreground, adding a sense of delicacy and beauty to the idyllic scene. During the Rococo period, periwinkle was often used in interiors, particularly in fabrics and upholstery. The famous French designer Jean-Baptiste Réveillon created a range of periwinkle-hued wallpapers and textiles, which were used in some of the most opulent interiors of the time.

Primavera (1482) by Sandro Botticelli; Sandro Botticelli, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons

The Lady of Shalott (1888) by John William Waterhouse

In the 19th century, periwinkle was a popular choice among the Pre-Raphaelite Brotherhood, a group of artists known for their romantic and dreamlike paintings. John William Waterhouse’s “The Lady of Shalott ” features a periwinkle-hued sky, adding to the enchanting and ethereal mood of the painting. In essence, periwinkle has been a beloved hue in art history, inspiring some of the most breathtaking works of art ever created.

Its delicate and soothing character adds a sense of tranquility and beauty to any artwork, making it a timeless color that continues to captivate and inspire artists to this day.

The Lady of Shalott (1888) by John William Waterhouse; John William Waterhouse, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons

Periwinkle in Our Modern Day

Continuing into our modern era, periwinkle has sustained its ability to inspire some of the most striking and captivating artworks of recent times. With its subtle yet distinctive character, periwinkle has been used to create everything from calming abstract paintings to ethereal sculptures, and has played an important role in shaping the aesthetics of contemporary art. In contemporary art, periwinkle continues to be a beloved color, inspiring artists to create everything from soothing abstract paintings to dreamlike landscapes. Yayoi Kusama’s Infinity Mirrored Room – The Souls of Millions of Light Years Away features periwinkle-hued LED lights, creating an immersive and otherworldly experience for viewers.

Periwinkle has also been used in abstract paintings to create calming and soothing compositions.

Mark Rothko’s No. 61 (Rust and Blue) features a periwinkle-blue hue that creates a serene and meditative atmosphere, while Agnes Martin’s “White Flower” features delicate periwinkle lines that add a subtle touch of beauty and elegance to the minimalist composition. In sculpture, periwinkle has been used to create ethereal and whimsical pieces. Jeff Koons’ Balloon Dog (Blue) features a periwinkle-blue hue that adds to the playful and joyful character of the iconic sculpture, while Takashi Murakami’s Flower Matango features periwinkle-hued flowers that add to the psychedelic and surreal aesthetic of the work.

In contemporary fashion, periwinkle has also been a popular choice, with designers using the delicate hue to create everything from elegant evening gowns to trendy streetwear. Designer Zac Posen has created stunning periwinkle-hued gowns worn by celebrities on the red carpet, while Hong Kong-based streetwear brand A Bathing Ape has incorporated periwinkle into its iconic camouflage pattern, creating a unique and distinctive look.

The Color Wheel and Its Relationship With Periwinkle

The color wheel should be seen as a visual representation of the spectrum of light and colors and is a fundamental tool for artists and designers alike. It provides a foundation for understanding the relationships between colors, including the beautiful and elusive shade of periwinkle. With its subtle blend of both blue and purple, periwinkle occupies a unique place on the color wheel, bridging the gap between cool and warm tones. Understanding the nuances of periwinkle’s relationship to other colors on the wheel can open up new creative possibilities and bring a sense of harmony and balance to any design.

So, let us delve into the fascinating world of the color wheel and explore the captivating relationship between periwinkle and its colorful counterparts.

Periwinkle Complementary Color

Periwinkle and light yellow, two colors that are quite literally at opposite ends of the spectrum, have a fascinating relationship as complementary colors. Periwinkle, with its cool tones of blue and purple, contrasts beautifully with the warm, sunny hue of light yellow. The pairing of these two colors creates a striking visual harmony, as each one enhances the beauty and vibrancy of the other.

When used together in art or design, periwinkle and light yellow can create a sense of balance and contrast that adds depth and complexity to the composition.

For example, in a painting, the use of periwinkle and light yellow in adjacent areas can create a dynamic interplay between warm and cool tones, drawing the viewer’s eye and creating a sense of movement and energy. In nature, however, periwinkle and light yellow can often be found in the delicate petals of springtime flowers, such as daffodils and crocuses. The pairing of these two colors in nature is a reminder of the beauty and harmony that can be found in the natural world.

Periwinkle Split Complementary Colors

Split complementary colors are colors that are located on either side of your complementary color. In the case of periwinkle, its split complementary colors would include light lime and bisque, which creates a sense of harmony and balance that is both captivating and visually striking. Light lime, a soft shade of green, and bisque, a warm, sandy hue, both complement and contrast with the cool tones of periwinkle.

The combination of these three colors can create a sense of depth and complexity in art and design, as each color brings out the beauty and richness of the others.

In fashion, the pairing of periwinkle with light lime and bisque can create a chic and sophisticated look. For example, a periwinkle blouse paired with light lime trousers and bisque accessories can create a stunning ensemble that is both stylish and elegant.

Periwinkle Triadic Colors

With its soft blue and lavender tones, periwinkle has a fascinating relationship with its triadic colors, pale green and pale red. Triadic colors are three colors that are evenly spaced on the color wheel, creating a harmonious and balanced effect when used together. The use of periwinkle with pale green and pale red creates a stunning visual effect that is both mesmerizing and captivating. Pale green, a soft, serene shade of green, and pale red, a delicate, rosy hue, both complement and contrast with the cool tones of periwinkle.

The combination of these three colors can create a sense of depth and richness in art and design, as each color is able to accentuate and emphasize the beauty displayed by the other.

In interior design, the use of periwinkle with pale green and pale red can create a serene and tranquil atmosphere. For example, a periwinkle bedroom with pale green accents and pale red furnishings can create a peaceful and calming space that is perfect for relaxation.

Periwinkle Monochromatic Colors

Periwinkle has a unique and captivating relationship with its monochromatic colors. Monochromatic colors are those that vary slightly from a single hue, varying only in their lightness and darkness. Periwinkle’s monochromatic colors range from the palest lavender to the deepest of blues, creating a harmonious and serene effect when used together. In art, the use of periwinkle’s monochromatic colors can create a sense of depth and tranquility, as each shade adds its own unique dimension to the overall composition.

For example, a painting that features periwinkle as its main color may use its lighter variations to create highlights and darker shades to create shadows, resulting in a piece that is both balanced and visually stunning.

Pairing Periwinkle With Other Colors

Pairing periwinkle with other shades can create a harmonious and visually stunning color scheme that can be as elegant as it is mesmerizing. By veering away from the color schemes mentioned above and thinking outside the wheel, you will find that periwinkle’s unique relationship with various hues is able to create endless possibilities for beautiful and creative combinations.

Periwinkle vs. Lavender

Having a match-up of periwinkle vs. lavender in your designs can lead to a breathtakingly beautiful, yet subtle, combination that creates a sense of tranquility and serenity. These two delicate hues, both with blue undertones, blend together seamlessly to create a color scheme that is both sophisticated and ethereal. In fashion, pairing periwinkle with lavender can create a feminine and romantic look.

For example, a periwinkle dress paired with a lavender scarf or shoes creates a soft and dreamy ensemble that is perfect for a summer wedding or a day out with friends.

Periwinkle vs. Pastel Peach

Pairing with pastel peach is a delightful and charming combination that is both playful and elegant. These two colors, with their soft and warm tones, blend together seamlessly to create a color scheme that is both refreshing and delightful. In nature, the pairing of periwinkle with pastel peach can be seen in the delicate hues of a sunset or a blooming flower garden.  The combination of these two colors creates a sense of harmony and balance that is both calming and energizing.

Periwinkle vs. Rusty Orange

If you are looking for something a bit more vibrant when pairing with periwinkle, then combining this shade with rusty orange can create a beautiful and intriguing color scheme that is both bold and harmonious. These two colors, with their contrasting yet complementary tones, create a striking balance that draws that eye and adds depth to any space or outfit. In interior design, pairing periwinkle with rusty orange can create a warm and inviting atmosphere.

For example, a room that features periwinkle walls with rusty orange accents, such as a throw blanket or accent pillows, creates a space that is both cozy and eclectic.

Periwinkle vs. Gold

For a more luxuriously sophisticated color palette, one that exudes elegance and glamor, then the soft and subtle tones of periwinkle paired with the bold and radiant hues of gold may be the fit for you. This pairing provides a beautiful contrast, one that creates a harmonious look that remains timeless and modern simultaneously. In fashion, pairing periwinkle with gold can create a striking and memorable outfit. For example, a periwinkle dress with gold accessories, such as earrings, a necklace, and a clutch, creates a chic and glamorous ensemble that is perfect for a formal event or a night out on the town.

How to Make Your Own Periwinkle Paint

Creating your own periwinkle paint can be a wonderful way to explore your creativity and add a personal touch to your artwork or home décor. Periwinkle is a delicate and soothing color that is achieved by mixing blue and purple tones. Here are some steps to help you create your own periwinkle paint: First, gather your materials, including blue and purple paint, a palette or mixing tray, and a paintbrush. It’s important to choose high-quality paints to ensure the best results.

Next, squeeze a small amount of blue paint onto your palette or mixing tray. Then, add a small amount of purple paint to the blue, starting with a little at a time, and mix thoroughly.

Keep adding more purple until you achieve the desired shade of periwinkle. Remember to mix well to ensure that the colors are evenly blended. If you find that your periwinkle is too light, add a touch of white paint to lighten it up. Conversely, if it is too dark, you can add a bit more blue or a brighter purple shade. Once you have achieved your desired shade of periwinkle, use your paintbrush to test the color on a piece of paper or canvas. This will give you an idea of how the color will look when applied and will help you make any necessary adjustments.

Finally, enjoy your newly created periwinkle paint and use it to add a touch of calm and serenity to your artwork or home decor. Whether you are painting a canvas, a piece of furniture, or a room in your home, the soothing and calming qualities of periwinkle will add a touch of beauty and tranquility to your space.

In closing, periwinkle is a delicate and soothing color that has captured the hearts and imagination of artists, designers, and nature lovers alike. Its calming qualities make it a popular choice for creating tranquil and peaceful environments, while its subtle variations and complementary shades offer endless possibilities for pairing and experimentation. Whether you choose to incorporate periwinkle into your artwork, home décor, or wardrobe, this timeless color will continue to inspire and captivate for generations to come. So, embrace the beauty of periwinkle and let its gentle charm fill your world with a sense of space and tranquility.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Periwinkle Blue or Purple?

This question may lead you to believe that the answer is either one or the other. In actuality, periwinkle is an even blend of the two colors, with a dash of white thrown in to give the shade that light and pastel touch.

What Is the Periwinkle Color Code?

The periwinkle color code can vary slightly depending on the specific shade and the color system being used. However, the most commonly recognized periwinkle color code is #ccccff as its Hex code, 204, 204, 255 as its RGB, and 20, 20, 0, 0 as its CMYK code.

Larissa Meyer( Art Addict, Illustrator and Graphic Designer )

Larissa Meyer is a 32-year-old mother from Michigan and creative spirit since childhood. Her passion for painting and drawing has led her to an education as an illustrator and a career as a freelance graphic designer. She has a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Illustration and a degree in Graphic Design. Larissa is a talented artist who is able to master a wide range of styles and techniques to bring her artistic vision to life. Her greatest passion is currently fluid painting and epoxy resin art. Larissa’s love for art and her knowledge and experience in illustration make her the perfect Creative Director for our fluid-painting.com team. She is the creative head of our team and shares her passion and knowledge with our community through articles and tutorials.

As a mother of a 2-year-old daughter, Larissa also understands the importance of fostering creativity in early childhood. She uses her experience and knowledge to help other parents inspire their children and develop their artistic skills as well.

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