Member-only story
The ultimate guide to understanding color theory in design
A deep understanding of color theory is essential for effective design. After all, color plays a big role in marketing and branding and can influence emotions, preferences, and even behavior. To help you master this tricky subject, this ultimate guide to color theory in design is here to lend a helping hand.
What is Color Theory?
At its core, color theory is the theory of how colors interact and how they are used to affect people’s emotions, preferences, and attitudes. It dates back to ancient Greek and Roman times and while the technology behind it has changed, the fundamental concept remains the same. Specifically, color theory consists of concepts such as the color wheel, color schemes, contrasting colors, and more.
The Color Wheel and Color Schemes
The most recognizable aspect of color theory is the color wheel, which visually displays the relationships between the art’s primary, secondary, and tertiary colors. While the color wheel dates back to Sir Isaac Newton in 1666, Swiss painter Johannes Itten further developed and expanded upon this concept after researching the writings of German art theorist and philosopher Johann Wolfgang von Goethe.
Color schemes, on the other hand, use the color wheel to decide which colors to use. There are a variety of different color schemes with each one conveying a different feeling and sentiment. Some of the most popular color schemes are Monochromatic, Analogous, Complementary, Split Complementary, and Triadic.
Monochromatic Color Schemes
A monochromatic color scheme is one constructed of various hues, values, and intensities of a single color. For example, the global brand Coca-Cola famously uses a monochromatic red color scheme. This particular color scheme is extremely versatile and has good impact aesthetically.
Analogous Color Schemes
An analogous color scheme is composed of two to four colors that are next to each other on the color wheel. This type of color scheme is often…
