Analogous Color Scheme Generator
Create harmonious color schemes with colors that are adjacent on the color wheel.
Analogous Color Scheme
Preview
Analogous Color Scheme
This is a preview of how your analogous color scheme might look in a design. The background uses the first color, the heading uses the middle color, and this text uses the last color in your scheme.
What is an Analogous Color Scheme?
An analogous color scheme uses colors that are adjacent to each other on the color wheel. These colors typically share similar undertones and create a harmonious, cohesive look when used together.
Analogous color schemes are found abundantly in nature—think of the gradual changes in a sunset or the varying shades of green in a forest. They're pleasing to the eye because they create a sense of unity and cohesion.
How to Use the Analogous Color Scheme Generator
- Select a base color using the color picker or by entering a hex code
- Adjust the angle between colors (10°-60°) to control how similar or different the colors will be
- Choose the number of colors you want in your scheme (3, 5, or 7)
- The tool automatically generates colors that are adjacent to your base color on the color wheel
- Preview how the colors work together in the preview section
- Click the copy icon next to any color to copy its hex code to your clipboard
Tips for Using Analogous Color Schemes
- Use the 60-30-10 rule: Use your primary color for 60% of the design, a secondary color for 30%, and an accent color for 10%.
- Ensure sufficient contrast: Analogous colors have similar values, so make sure there's enough contrast for text readability and visual hierarchy.
- Consider temperature: Analogous colors share a temperature (warm or cool). Be mindful of this when integrating them with other design elements.
- Add neutrals: Including neutral colors like white, black, or gray can help create breathing room in your design.
- Vary saturation and brightness: To create more depth and interest, try varying the saturation and brightness of your analogous colors.
Applications of Analogous Color Schemes
Web Design
Analogous color schemes create a sense of harmony and cohesion in websites. They're perfect for creating a professional, unified look while still providing enough variation for different UI elements.
Branding
Many brands use analogous color schemes to create a cohesive visual identity that feels harmonious while still offering enough variety for different applications.
Interior Design
Analogous color schemes are popular in interior design for creating rooms that feel balanced and peaceful. They're especially effective in spaces meant for relaxation.
Art and Illustration
Artists often use analogous color schemes to create a sense of unity in their work, or to evoke specific moods and atmospheres.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are analogous color schemes good for beginners?
Yes, analogous color schemes are one of the easiest color schemes to work with because the colors naturally harmonize with each other. They're a great starting point for beginners.
How many colors should I include in an analogous scheme?
Typically, analogous color schemes use 3-5 colors that are adjacent on the color wheel. Using too many colors can diminish the harmonious effect, while too few might not provide enough variety.
Can I mix analogous schemes with other color schemes?
Yes, you can combine analogous colors with complementary accents for more visual interest. For example, you might use an analogous scheme as your primary palette and add a complementary color as an accent.
What emotions do analogous color schemes evoke?
Analogous color schemes tend to create a sense of harmony, tranquility, and cohesion. The specific emotions depend on the colors used—warm analogous schemes might feel energetic or cozy, while cool analogous schemes often feel calm or refreshing.