The 2010s had a very clear color combos vibe. Clean, bold, and easy on the eyes. These color pairings showed up everywhere—from logos and apps to home décor and fashion—and chances are, you’ve loved at least one of them without even realizing it. The three most popular color pairings from the 2010s were black & white, navy blue & gold, and teal & coral. They worked so well because they felt modern, balanced, and simple, while still looking stylish and fresh.
1. Black and white: the ultimate modern classic
Black and white ruled the 2010s. This combo became the go-to choice for brands, websites, and interiors that wanted a clean and confident look.
Why it worked
- Easy to read and easy to match
- Looks sharp on screens and in print
- Feels timeless, not trendy
In the 2010s, many tech brands and startups used black and white to look serious and professional. Minimalist homes also leaned heavily on this pairing.
Where you saw it most
- Website designs
- Fashion (streetwear and formal)
- Modern apartments
2. Navy blue and gold: calm meets luxury
This pairing became very popular in the mid to late 2010s. Navy blue brought calm and trust, while gold added a touch of richness without being loud.
Why it worked
- Navy feels safe and stable
- Gold adds warmth and class
- Together, they feel premium but not flashy
Many brands used this combo to look high-end without being too bold. It also became a favorite for weddings, packaging, and business branding.
Where you saw it most
- Logos and brand identity
- Event décor
- Product packaging
3. Teal and coral: fresh and friendly
Teal and coral were everywhere in lifestyle design. This combo felt happy, youthful, and welcoming—perfect for the relaxed tone of the 2010s.
Why it worked
- Teal feels cool and balanced
- Coral adds energy and warmth
- Together, they feel fun but not childish
This pairing was especially popular in digital design and home décor because it felt modern without being harsh.
Where you saw it most
- Mobile apps
- Home décor items
- Social media graphics
Pros and cons of 2010s color combos
| Color pairing | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| Black & White | Clean, timeless, easy to use | Can feel cold if overused |
| Navy & Gold | Elegant, professional, premium look | Gold can look dull if poorly done |
| Teal & Coral | Fresh, friendly, eye-catching | Can feel dated if used today unchanged |
Real-world examples
- Black & white: Apple’s product pages and minimalist fashion brands
- Navy & gold: Luxury candles, wedding invitations, finance logos
- Teal & coral: Fitness apps, travel blogs, modern living rooms
These combos weren’t just trends—they shaped how brands and people expressed style during the decade.
FAQs (People Also Ask)
What colors were popular in the 2010s?
Neutral shades, soft pastels, and balanced bold colors like teal, navy, and coral were very popular.
Why did minimalist colors trend in the 2010s?
People wanted clean designs that felt calm and worked well on screens, especially with the rise of smartphones and apps.
Are 2010s color combos still relevant today?
Yes, but they often need a small update, like softer shades or added texture, to feel current.
Which 2010s color combo is most timeless?
Black and white remains the most timeless because it works in almost any setting.
Final verdict
The 2010s gave us color pairings that were simple, smart, and easy to love. Black and white brought clarity, navy and gold added quiet luxury, and teal with coral delivered warmth and fun. Even today, these combos still inspire design—you just need to refresh them slightly to keep them feeling modern.