Purple can be toned down slightly by using it with pale greys and light pastel colours. Some wine colours can create a very dramatic or theatrical effect in large living or dining rooms.

When used in its various shades and tints, such as lavenders, mauves and lilacs it can be treated as either a warm or cool colour, depending on how much blue or red is in the hue. Like pinks, these colours can be used for a soft romantic effect.

The colour of royalty and justice, purple can look very rich. However, like red, if not used carefully it can be overpowering.