Rainbow Pride Color Palette - The Classic LGBTQ Pride Flag

While the rainbow palette might seem obvious, I actually seek out very specific hues and dye lots to best capture the vibrant essence of the classic LGBTQ+ Pride Flag. This iconic palette is used in many of my creations, and I’d like to introduce you to the precise shades I use. Stay tuned for future posts to see how Rainbow Pride compares to my other rainbow palettes: pastel, black and electric rainbow!

Shown in the graphic, starting from upper left and moving clockwise: Long Feathered Leaves Earrings, Rectangle Pendant, Coiled Hoop Earrings, Helix Earrings, Fringe Necklace, Sliding Tube Necklace

Though I'm sometimes limited by dye lots, I strive to keep the colors bright and vibrant. Here's a closer look at each specific hue I use and why:

• red: My ideal red is bright and vibrant, a pure red without any burgundy undertones, and never too light or washed out.
• orange: I aim for a highly saturated orange – think juicy citrus, not a creamy pastel or anything too yellow.
• yellow: This needs to be a bright, bright, bright yellow! I steer clear of brassy golds, opting for a pure, sunny yellow that truly pops.
• green: The perfect green is a fresh grass green. I avoid anything too dark like a forest green, or anything too muted or light like sage.
• azure: The original Pride Flag features a specific blue that's often lighter than what many vendors offer simply as "blue." This is why I typically use "azure" in my work. This lighter shade helps keep the entire rainbow bright and cheerful. (However, if azure isn't available in a specific link size or if the dye lot isn't quite right, I will carefully select a suitable alternative blue.)
• violet: In the chainmaille world, this color is commonly called "violet," though others might refer to it as purple. It has a beautiful red undertone, and consistent with the rest of the flag, I aim for the most saturated and vibrant hue possible.

Beyond the classic Pride Flag, I also love exploring other rainbow variations! Sometimes, when I’m creating a rainbow ombre that isn’t specifically Pride-themed, I'll incorporate extra shades like red-orange, yellow-lime, teal and blue-purple to create smooth color transitions. (You can see an example of this blending in the coiled rainbow earrings below.)

As y’all know, I love color! Rainbows are some of my favorite palettes, because I don’t have to pick between cool or warm colors, I can use them all! 

Love these colors? Many items in my shop can be customized with LGBTQ Rainbow Pride colors, or you can create your own masterpiece with a custom DIY kit from Blue Buddha Boutique in rainbow colors. Contact me and let's bring your vision to life!

Follow this series on the dedicated Color Palette board on Pinterest.