Color Concepts 101: Introduction to Color Theory

The most important aspect of design is to understand color and color theory. Contrasts, complementary, monochromes, color blocking, analogous, triadic are few concepts that one needs to be identified with before learning to design.

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A new color combination can add innovation to an apparently dull wardrobe and can completely transform a look from season to season. Color theory is relevant to several aspects of style besides clothing as well. For example, to create an ensemble, one must understand what color concept it will represent.

The color wheel might seem intimidating initially, but comes in very handy for piecing together flattering and unique color combinations and helps a designer understand color relationships.

Hue is a color in its purest form.Tint, tone, and shade are all derivatives of Hue.

Tint = hue + white, tone = hue + grey, shade = hue+ black. 

These four elements are used to create the color your eyes see.

Once you know what the color wheel comprises of, you can do your own permutation and combinations and create infinite tints, tones and shades. From prints and patterns, to color blocking, accessories and everything in between there are millions of ways to use these combinations.

Color Concepts:

Monochromatic is a color combination that is comprised of just one color.

Complementary: These are colors directly across from each other on the color wheel. Because of their high contrast, as the name implies, they complement each other.

Analogous: Combinations of any three colors that are directly next to each other on the color wheel are analogous.

Split complementary: This color combination is achieved by taking a base color then pairing it with colors directly next to its adjacent color.

Triadic: Colors in groups of three colors that are all equidistant from each other on the color wheel.

The foundation of fashion design, a color wheel is just the beginning of a magical world of creation, innovation and invention. So enlighten yourself and go out there, explore, create make mistakes, and have fun!