Color Theory Basics
A plain-language guide to complementary, analogous, triadic, and monochromatic color relationships.
The color wheel
The color wheel arranges hues in a circle so their relationships are easy to see. Colors next to each other feel related; colors far apart create stronger contrast. The wheel is a map for exploration, not a rulebook.
Complementary colors
Complementary colors sit opposite one another, such as blue and orange. They create energy and separation, but equal amounts can feel loud. Use one as the lead and the other as an accent.
Analogous and triadic schemes
Analogous colors are neighbors and tend to feel calm and unified. Triadic colors are evenly spaced and offer more variety. In either scheme, vary lightness and saturation so every color does not compete for attention.
Put theory into practice
Begin with the emotional and functional job of the design, then choose a relationship. Check contrast for text, test with real content, and make sure color is not the only signal for important meaning.
Try it yourself
Put these ideas into practice with our free browser-based color tools. Your colors stay on your device.