7 Colors that Break with Convention

Finding colors can break with the convention and can be overwhelming, especially if you are unaware of color theory and do not know how each color complements the other.

Here are 7 colors that break with convention:

1.    Complementary Colors

Completely color schemes are two colors that are located on the color wheel on opposite sides of each other.

These colors have the highest contrast. Hence, when using complementary colors, you need to be extremely careful.

2.    Analogous

Analogous colors pair one basic color with dual colors that sit on its side on the color wheel.

In case you want to work with five colors instead of three, you can throw in two extra colors that are located on the side of the two outside colors. This color scheme is great for making warm and cool color palettes.

3.    Monochromatic

Monochromatic colors use one color in different tints so that the end result can be consistent. Even though there is a lack of color contrast, the overall look can end up looking polished.

For example, you can use varying shades of red to create a monochromatic theme.

4.    Split Complementary

This includes using one main color and pairing it with two colors next to each other. The final product is a nuanced palette.

All colors used in this provide a contrast, making this model difficult to balance.

5.    Square

As you may be able to tell by its name, the square theme is about using colors that are at the same distance from each other on the color wheel.

These four colors provide a sufficient contract to any design, but rather than balancing all the colors, we recommend keeping one main color.

6.    Triadic

Triadic schemes are all about using contrasting colors while maintaining the same tone. These can be made with three colors that are at equidistance from each other on the color wheel.

If you want to produce a high contrast between all colors, triadic color schemes are perfect to use.

7.    Rectangle

Commonly referred to as a tetradic color scheme, this color scheme is similar to the square color scheme. However, the end result is more subtle.

For example, you can use two bold colors and pair them with two muted colors. This will allow the brighter colors to stand out as they get balanced out by the lighter colors.

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