This invention is directed to a method of modifying the refractive index of multilayer thin films structure comprising high refractive and low refractive index layers, where the high refractive and low refractive index layers are of the same material, the method comprises a) depositing a first layer of film of a refractive index on a substrate; b) depositing a second layer of film having a different refractive index onto the first layer of film; and c) depositing a third layer of film having a different refractive index from the second layer of film onto the second layer of film, and compositions thereof. In certain embodiments, this multilayer thin film structure of this invention is directed to decorative applications.