Swatchd
Sign inGet started
BohemianSouth-Facing

Velvet Ribbon 4

Dulux

The Analysis

Velvet Ribbon 4 is a deep, saturated violet that absorbs a significant amount of light due to its low LRV of 17.36. Because it pulls light into the walls rather than reflecting it, it will make a room feel smaller and more intimate rather than bright and airy.

This shade is far too intense to serve as a neutral backdrop for a whole house. It works best as a bold accent wall, a dramatic colour-drenched office, or in a powder room to add personality.

LRV 17

History & Origin

Deep violets are often associated with Victorian or maximalist interiors, where rich, jewel-toned palettes were used to create luxury. It serves as a modern update to that traditional aesthetic, moving away from classic heritage palettes toward contemporary bold design.

Undertonecool-purple
FamilyPurple

How to Use It

Pair this with brushed brass or gold hardware to highlight the warm undertones of the purple. Use light-toned woods like white oak to provide a clean contrast, or matte black fixtures if you want a moodier, high-contrast look.

The Mood

This is a dramatic, high-impact colour that feels restful and sophisticated rather than energizing. It creates a cocooning effect, making it an excellent choice for rooms where you want to wind down or create a sense of focused calm.

Colour harmonies

Complementary

Opposite on the colour wheel — bold, high-contrast pairings. Use for a feature wall or furniture you want to command attention.

Analogous

Neighbouring hues — cohesive and calm, great for layered schemes that feel collected rather than matched.

Split complementary

Near-opposites for strong contrast with a little less tension than a pure complement. A favourite of interior designers.

Triadic

Three evenly spaced hues — balanced, vibrant, and versatile. Keep one dominant and use the others sparingly.

Tetradic (square)

Four hues in a square on the wheel — rich, dynamic palettes. Best when one colour leads and the others accent.

Monochromatic

Dark, mid, and light steps on the same hue — a failsafe gradient for trim, walls, and accents without shifting colour family.

Brand Matches

Perceptually similar colours from across all brands in our database.

  • Clematis

    Sherwin-Williams · SW6831

  • Purple Paradise

    Behr · PPU16-3

  • Crown Jewels 1193

    Colourtrend

  • Romantic Moment

    Behr · P570-5

  • Velvet Ribbon 5

    Dulux

  • Charmed Violet

    Benjamin Moore · 1398

Lighting

See how this colour shifts across natural and artificial light conditions.

  • Natural
  • Morning
  • Afternoon
  • Evening
  • Overcast
  • 2700K
  • 3500K
  • 4000K
  • 5500K