Questions about the 60-30-10 rule

What is the 60-30-10 rule?

A way to balance three colors: a dominant color across about 60% of what you see, a secondary color across about 30%, and an accent across the last 10%. One color leads, so the whole looks calm and intentional.

What counts as the 60 in a room?

Usually the walls, plus any large surface in a similar color such as a big rug. The 30 is furniture, curtains, cabinets or an accent wall. The 10 is cushions, art, lamps, vases or a painted door.

Where do white trim, wood floors and black hardware go?

Treat them as neutrals that sit alongside the three colors. The rule is about the colors you choose, not every surface in the room.

Does it work for outfits and weddings?

Yes. For an outfit, the suit or dress is the 60, the shirt or second layer the 30, and the tie, shoes, bag or jewelry the 10. For a wedding, think of attire, flowers and table linen as the larger areas and keep one accent color for details.

How accurate are the colors on screen?

Screens vary, and paint and fabric change with light. Use the tool to plan the balance, then check real samples in the room, in daylight and lamp light, before you buy.

What does LRV mean here?

Light Reflectance Value: how much light a color reflects, from 0 (black) to 100 (white). The numbers on this site are estimated from the screen color. Paint makers publish the measured LRV for each paint.

Do you keep my photos?

No. Photos are read in your browser to find their main colors and are never uploaded.