Palette Structures

02 / 08

There are 5 classic ways to combine colors based on their position on the color wheel. Every palette in the world is some variation of these. Knowing them means you can build a palette from any starting color.

Monochromatic

One hue, varied in saturation and lightness. Calm, sophisticated, hard to mess up. Used by minimalist brands and editorial design.

BEST FOR minimalist brands, editorial sites, photography portfolios

#EFF6FF

#BFDBFE

#60A5FA

#2563EB

#1E3A8A

Analogous

3–4 colors next to each other on the wheel. Naturally harmonious because they share undertones. Found in nature (sunsets, forests).

BEST FOR wellness, nature, organic, food brands

#FEF3C7

#FCD34D

#F59E0B

#EA580C

#C2410C

Complementary

Two colors directly across the wheel. Maximum contrast. Vibrant, attention-grabbing, sometimes harsh. Use one as dominant and the other as accent.

BEST FOR sports, gaming, bold takes, CTAs

#1E3A8A

#3B82F6

#F8FAFC

#FB923C

#C2410C

Triadic

Three colors evenly spaced on the wheel (120° apart). Balanced but vibrant. Hard to pull off but unforgettable when done right.

BEST FOR kids brands, creative agencies, bold editorial

#DC2626

#FAFAF7

#FACC15

#FAFAF7

#2563EB

Split-Complementary

One base color plus the two colors next to its complement. Has the contrast of complementary but feels softer and more sophisticated.

BEST FOR most modern brands , the safe-but-interesting option

#0F766E

#14B8A6

#F5F5F4

#F472B6

#FB923C