A common technique employed in interior design is to pair pops of vibrant color with an all white space, creating a place for the eye to rest and letting the color stand out against a neutral background.

A more sophisticated take on this trend is to play a vibrant color off of a neutral that is based on its opposite on the color wheel. Cobalt blue takes on a new dimension when paired with a subdued shade with yellow undertones and vibrant shades of fuchsia play well off of olive or khaki tones.

This theory can be used to create a range of unique combinations. Simply choose colors opposite on the color wheel, playing one up in a saturated shade while using a softer, more subdued shade of its opposite to create a sophisticated combination that really stands out.

Image: Living Etc