Color is everywhere — in art, branding, fashion, and web design. But what makes some color combinations pop while others fall flat? The answer lies in color theory.
? What Is Color Theory?
Color theory is the science of how colors work together. It’s based on the color wheel, which shows primary, secondary, and tertiary colors and how they interact.
? What Are Primary Colors?
Primary colors are the 3 basic colors that cannot be made by mixing other colors.
They are:
- ? Red
- ? Blue
- ? Yellow
These are the building blocks for all other colors.
? What Are Secondary Colors?
Secondary colors are made by mixing two primary colors:
- ? Red + ? Blue = ? Purple
- ? Red + ? Yellow = ? Orange
- ? Blue + ? Yellow = ? Green
So, Purple, Orange, and Green are secondary colors.
? What Are Complementary Colors?
Complementary colors are opposite each other on the color wheel.
When used together, they stand out and create strong contrast.
Examples:
- ? Red & ? Green
- ? Blue & ? Orange
- ? Yellow & ? Purple
Designers use these to grab attention — like in ads or logos.
? Warm and ❄️ Cool Colors
Warm (Hot) colors:
These feel energetic, happy, and exciting:
- ? Red
- ? Orange
- ? Yellow
Cool colors:
These feel calm, relaxed, and peaceful:
- ? Blue
- ? Green
- ? Purple
Use warm colors to energize and cool colors to soothe.
