Color Theory Basics for Digital Design

Learn complementary, analogous, and triadic color relationships.

Complementary colors

Colors opposite on the wheel (180° apart). Maximum contrast. Examples: blue & orange, red & cyan.

Use for: Logos, CTAs, bold statements

Analogous colors

Colors next to each other (30-60° apart). Harmonious, feel natural. Examples: red, orange, yellow.

Use for: Brand palettes, peaceful interfaces

Triadic colors

Three colors 120° apart. Vibrant and balanced. Examples: red, yellow, blue.

Use for: Playful designs, distinct sections

Building your palette

Start with one color. Use Huelab's palette generator to create harmonious schemes. Add neutrals (gray, black, white). Test contrast. Verify in light and dark modes.