How To Pick Can't-Miss Color Pairs

By Leah Hennen

5. Don't go overboard
Even if you adore a particular pairing, be judicious with it (unless, of course, you have an unlimited budget with which to redecorate every year). Stick with a neutral base for upholstered furniture and wall-to-wall carpeting, then "use small doses of color as an accent," says Color Association's color consultant Barbara Schirmeister. "Just a few strategic pieces — pillows, window coverings, lamps — are often all you need to really punch up a room." And that way, once you fall for the next hot color duo, working it in will be a simple matter of switching out accessories and other inexpensive items.