Finding the right color combinations for your design can be daunting. That’s why we created 101 color combinations inspired by Shutterstock images, and each comes with a set of hex codes. Use them in your website design, social media ads, direct mailers, and more.
In this post, we’ll cover:
-
A Crash Course in Color Theory
- Primary Colors
- Secondary Colors
- Tertiary Colors
- Complementary Color Combinations (and more . . .)
- Monochromatic Color Combos
- Keep-It-Cool Color Combos
- Bright Color Combinations
- Warm Color Combinations
- Complementary Color Combinations
- Color Psychology
- Download FREE Swatch Files
A Crash Course in Color Theory
Before you dig into our treasure trove of curated color schemes, it’s helpful to understand what makes them work (so you can modify/mix/match to make your own).
The color wheel diagrams the relationship between colors. It’s an essential tool for understanding the foundational visual art principles known as color theory.
We’re going to use the color wheel to explain key color harmonies, like complementary, analogous, triadic, tetradic, and monochromatic.
Primary Colors
Primary colors are red, blue, and yellow—the three colors that are considered the base of all other colors. These colors cannot be created by mixing other colors together, and are used as the foundation for creating a wide range of other hues and shades.
By combining these colors in different ways, all other colors on the color wheel can be made. This concept is essential in art, design, and any other field that involves color theory.
Secondary Colors
Secondary colors are colors created by mixing two primary colors (red, blue, and yellow) together. When these colors are combined in different combinations, they create secondary colors.
For example, mixing red and blue together creates purple, red and yellow creates orange, and blue and yellow creates green. Secondary colors are important in art and design as they provide a wider range of colors to work with and can be used to create visually appealing color palettes.
Tertiary Colors
Tertiary colors are created by mixing a primary color with a secondary color. They are important to color theory because they provide a wider range of colors to work with, allowing for more complex and nuanced color schemes.
By understanding tertiary colors and how they interact with primary and secondary colors, artists and designers can create more visually interesting and dynamic compositions. Tertiary colors also play a role in creating harmony and balance in a piece of artwork or design, as they offer the opportunity to blend and unify different hues in a cohesive way.
Some examples of tertiary colors include: red-orange, yellow-orange, yellow-green, blue-green, blue-violet, and red-violet. To create these tertiary colors, you would need to combine a primary color with a neighboring secondary color on the color wheel.
For example, to create red-orange, you would mix red (a primary color) with orange (a secondary color). Similarly, yellow-green is made by combining yellow with green, blue-green is created by mixing blue with green, and so on.
Complementary Color Combinations
Two colors that are directly across from each other on the color wheel make up complementary color schemes. Some complements include red and green, blue and orange, and yellow and purple. These colors appear more vibrant when paired together, so exercise caution.
Analogous Color Combinations
This color combination uses three colors that are next to each other on the color wheel, often presented as different shades and tints. Pair these color schemes with a neutral color to round out the palette.
Triadic Color Combinations
A triadic color scheme uses three colors that are evenly spaced around the wheel, in a triangle shape. The combination of hues we know as “primary colors” (red, blue, and yellow) and “secondary colors” (orange, purple, and green) are examples of triadic harmonies.
Tetradic Color Combinations
This color scheme uses two pairs of complementary colors, creating a rectangle on the color wheel.
Monochromatic Color Scheme
A monochromatic color palette is made up of a single base hue, then extended with that hue’s shades, tints, and tones. By adding black, white, or gray to a color, you can create a consistent color palette that’s versatile and easy on the eyes.
Monochromatic Color Combos
Let’s start the list with gorgeous monochromatic themes, perfect for a more reserved design.
1. Comfy Neutral
License this image via Philipp Shuruev.
This color scheme combines a subdued blush tone with perfectly neutral grays to create a feminine and inviting feel. The range of light-to-dark shades makes this a versatile color palette for any design.
2. Mellow Agate
License this image via Gluiki.
This agate crystal, inspired by our Natural Luxury trend, is derived from shades of yellow to give a bright sunshine tone.
Use this complete palette to instantly grab the viewer’s attention, or select a single yellow hue to add contrast in your designs.
3. Misty Greens
License this image via FlashMovie.
These vibrant green shades run the gamut, from soft and pastel to rich and deep. Try this energizing color palette in your next nature-inspired design.
4. Subdued Succulent
License this image via Patiwat Sariya.
Cacti and succulents are a force of nature. The popularity of these desert plants is on the rise and will continue to appear throughout the creative realm.
With their calming, fun blue or green hues, they act as perfect color inspiration for your next project.
5. Western Wear
License this image via Bogdan Sonjachnyj.
Envelope yourself in this earthy color combination of warm, rich brown tones. The range of shades makes this scheme practical and versatile, like your favorite sarape.
6. Emerald Garden
License this image via Rattiya Lamrod.
This lush look is perfect for natural, boho, and sustainable brands.
7. Rosy Reds
License this image via Gilmanshin.
Celebrate Valentine’s Day all year with this romantic monochromatic color combination that combines pretty pinks with a vibrant red. The berry-inspired black tone adds depth to balance everything out beautifully.
8. Pink Powders
License this image via Plateresca.
Keep it light with this cute color combination of pastel pinks and soft gray.
9. Electric Purples
License this image via MaxFrost.
New Minimalism—neon lights like hot pink coupled with vibrant hues—continues to gain ground as a major trend.
Amp up your designs with pops of contrasting colors to entice your viewers.
Keep-It-Cool Color Combos
Cooler colors like blues, greens, and purples give off tranquil, soothing vibes. They are great background colors as they will leave your audience feeling at ease. By integrating these colors into your designs, you can achieve trustworthiness and calmness.
These colors pair well with warmer hues to create contrast.
10. Turkish Coffee
License this image via Nella.
Create a moody atmosphere with this coffee-inspired modern color combination of dusty teal and coppery colors.
11. Color Whirl
License this image via AlexSurf.
Get whimsical with electric teal and toned-down pinks. The addition of a deep teal creates vital contrast for dynamic designs.
12. Grunge Graffiti
License this image via TWStock.
This color combination plays well together thanks to desaturated values, neutral gray, and a near-black purple.
13. Celestial Green
License this image via Space creator.
Celestial color schemes continue to dominate as a trend. Grab inspiration from these dazzling space oddities for a truly out of this world design.
14. Cork Crowd
License this image via Karpenkov Denis.
Wine will never go out of style, and neither will these luscious wine-inspired color combos.
15. Snakeskin & Scales
License this image via IS Studio.
It may be hard to spot at first, much like a snake in the grass, but this fashionable serpent-inspired scheme is all about subdued complementary colors.
16. Blooming Blossoms
License this image via schankz.
Delicate blue and pink contrast beautifully with a deep red and warm brown in this sakura-inspired color combination.
17. Angular Kaleidoscope
License this image via dinkaspell.
Intricate kaleidoscope patterns prevail as a global trend. Originated by international cultures, these complex motifs are ideal for backgrounds due to their symmetrical and seamless characteristics.
18. Raspberry Tart
License this image via j.chizhe.
This tetradic color combination infuses delicious blues with a sumptuous red and cheerful yellow to create a color combo anyone would want to take a bite out of.
19. Vitamin Sea
License this image via BlueOrange Studio.
Can you already hear the sound of ocean waves? Whisk any viewer away with this unmistakable beach-themed color combination.
20. Icy Stone
License this image via marbleszone.com.
The delicate, alluring characteristics of the Natural Luxury trend transform any space—home interiors, consumer goods, and so much more.
Add a touch of extravagance to your design by incorporating these luxurious color combinations.
21. Sea Green
License this image via Quality Master.
Explore the mysteries of the deep with these captivating nautical blues and greens.
22. Peace & Tranquility
License this image via fornStudio.
If hygge could be described in four colors, it would be these. Cozy up with this soft color combination in your next design.
23. Pure & Pigmented
License this image via Olha Vietrova.
Show off your BOGO sales or advertise new products with color combinations like Pure & Pigmented. Use one of Create’s templates to spotlight your seasonal giveaways.
24. Soft Watercolors
License this image via NITIKON AEMITTIPOL.
A pop of bright light blue adds a bit of oomph to this delicate watercolor-inspired color combination.
25. Northern Lights
License this image via Ken Phung.
Recreate this cosmic wonder of color in your design using bright greens against darker blues.
26. Pool Daze
License this image via Alena Ozerova.
Share fun summer vibes via social media with a poolside-lovin’ template.
27. Morning Fishermen
License this image via Kobby Dagan.
The gray undertones of blue create a foundation that’s perfect for layering energetic light green and earthy brown-gold.
28. Floral & Fun
License this image via wacomka.
The paper and digital crafts trend provides a realistic, three-dimensional feel to online images. Go against the grain of flat design by integrating color combinations inspired by these whimsical images.
29. Cool Chameleon
License this image via Arif Supriyadi.
Steal this cool chameleon’s look with pastel lavender, gray-greens, and subdued dark blue.
30. Gorgeous Galaxies
License this image via acharyahargreaves.
Space’s dazzling qualities continue to reign as a dominant creative trend. Incorporate the breathtaking views and color combinations of the galactic universe in your designs for added dimension.
31. Bold Ballerinas
License this image via maratr.
Invoke the action and drama of stage lighting with this peach/blue/purple color combination.
32. Mountainous Trek
License this image via everst.
Satisfy your wanderlust with this mountain-inspired scheme that includes a snowy gray and blue, as well as a dusty green and brown.
33. Piers & Pelicans
License this image via Irina Wilhauk.
This tropical teal is accented with a baby blue and moss green to create a nautical theme.
34. Greek Getaway
License this image via Andrew Mayovskyy.
Pair subdued blues with a charming pink and orange to recreate Greece’s idyllic sunsets.
35. Natural Linens
License this image via Nattapat.J.
This family of versatile neutral shades can add a sense of calm and comfort to your next creation.
36. Foggy Landscape
License this image via herryfaizal.
Mystical landscapes and imaginative realms continue to surface in the creative arena. Take your viewer to an alternate dimension with magical color combinations and imagery.
37. Bare Birch
License this image via Oleg Znamenskiy.
A rich gold takes center stage in this color combination that features baby blue and high-contrast black.
38. Bundled Yarn
License this image via Alena Ozerova.
These cuddly colors make for a cozy color combination that would work well as a comfortable cardigan.
39. Ocean Floor
License this image via Angelina Pilarinos Images.
Everything’s better down where it’s wetter, especially this complementary color combination.
40. Desert Beauty
License this image via ED Reardon.
Couple these cacti with important announcements for a striking design. Use a background image from our vast stock photo library to start, then customize other assets like graphics and text with the same color palette.
41. Vintage Vibes
License this image via J.D.S.
Evoke a bygone era with this muted rainbow of colors.
42. Central Breeze
License this image via John A. Anderson.
This analogous color combination will make your next organic-inspired design a walk in the park.
43. Island Tourist
License this image via sergey causelove.
Call attention to your next clothing or product sale with this eye-catching design. Plus, you never have to start from scratch when customizing one of Create’s pre-made templates.
44. Blooming Bouquet
License this image via Kate Aedon.
Don’t forget something old and something borrowed to go with the baby blue in this new bridal-inspired color scheme.
45. Calming & Soothing
License this image via Irina Bort.
This pastel tetradic color theme evokes the sweet sense-memories of your favorite handmade bath bombs.
46. Exterior Blossoms
License this image via MARGRIT HIRSCH.
A classic complementary combo, pink and green visually appear brighter together, making subdued blue a perfect backdrop for the two.
Bright Color Combinations
Vivid colors are both attention-grabbing and intense. Their bold nature can be overpowering when paired with other rich hues, so use them sparingly. Complement a bright palette with a dark or neutral counterpart to avoid oversaturated designs.
Concentrated colors often evoke different moods and meanings than their softer or darker equivalents. A navy blue can emit a lack of emotion while a neon blue can incite creativity or cheerfulness.
47. Luminous Lines
License this image via Andrush.
Fluorescent hues electrify a simple continuous line drawing. This take on the New Minimalism trend, with concentrated and luminous colors, elevates a seemingly minimalist design.
48. Tropic Popsicles
License this image via Lunov Mykola.
You can’t go wrong with these bright, fruity colors combined with a deep slate blue for contrast.
49. Distorted Abstraction
License this image via Klavdiya Krinichnaya.
An eye-catching electric blue energizes this color palette. But, thanks to its muted companions, it isn’t visually overwhelming.
Related Resources
- Colors – Color Schemes, Complementary Colors
- Color Palette Generator – Generator, Color Wheel, HEX Color Picker
- Pastel Yellow Color – Combinations, HEX Codes
- Pastel Blue- Combinations, HEX Codes
- Pastel Green- Combinations, HEX Codes
- Champagne Pink- Combinations, HEX Codes
50. Pops of Neon
License this image via Martyn Jandula.
Neon lights add a spark of interest to typography and clean lines by juxtaposing minimalism with retro-futuristic brights.
51. Rainy Views
License this image via richchy.
Add richness and depth to your design with this bold complementary color combination.
52. Arizona Sunsets
License this image via John Charboneau.
These desert cacti beauties, when paired with stunning sunsets, give off an air of vibrancy and allure that never goes out of style.
These lovely palettes continue to captivate and dominate the creative world in playful backgrounds and artistic photography, alike.
53. Colorful Bloom
License this image via Rohappy.
Make any time springtime with this combination of floral-themed pastel colors.
54. Pastel Pastries
License this image via Stephanie Frey.
These light and airy colors make for a deliciously dainty color scheme.
55. Meticulous Mandala
License this image via ViSnezh.
The rich and dynamic hues of this symmetrical mandala make for stylish backgrounds and backdrops.
This globally adored trend, coined Ancient Geometrics, dives into the historic cultural elements of worldwide regions.
56. Cobalt Caves
License this image via Maciej Bledowski.
Celebrate natural wonders with this cavern-themed scheme.
57. Bright Cityscape
License this image via Catarina Belova.
Bring a little joy to your next design with this cheerful color combination of bright orange, fern green, and petal pink.
58. Luminous Bubbles
License this image via cybermagician.
The incandescence of holographic foil adds an unmistakable retro spin to backgrounds and patterns.
Add splashes of shimmer or create emphasis with this bubbling creative palette.
59. Poolside Waves
License this image via Olga Max.
With this summer-ready color combination, the only thing missing is a fruity drink and a towel.
60. Italian Dwellings
License this image via Boris Stroujko.
Go on your own Roman holiday with this pleasing palette of popping colors.
61. Vivid Overlays
License this image via DigitalDesign0770.
Evoke a hint of nostalgia with shiny overlays and iridescent patterns.
62. Sunny Scallops
License this image via Fotana.
Use these warm, sunny colors to create a design that would turn any beach-comber’s head.
63. Pastel Patios
License this image via Mica C Olinghouse.
This laid-back rainbow of colors is best paired with a glass of lemonade and a slow Sunday afternoon.
64. Vibrant Vibes
License this image via Katya Havok.
Depart from neutral tones by incorporating punchy pastel palettes to your designs for a thrilling bang.
65. Crisp Citrus
License this image via casanisa.
This combination of fruity colors makes designs playful, youthful, and inviting.
66. Hot Chili
License this image via s74.
Spice up your next design with this chili-inspired palette, perfect for a restaurant brand.
67. Tea Party
License this image via Foxys Forest Manufacture.
This truly tetradic color combo combines two sets of complementary colors (blue + gold and magenta + green) that create depth and interest.
68. Rainbow Reverie
License this image via Tithi Luadthong.
Mysterious, mystical worlds invite viewers to dive into the unknown. Incorporate these creatures and landscapes in your designs for an imaginative flourish.
69. Acrylic Madness
License this image via Yuri Kabantsev.
Hop on the trendy paint-pouring bandwagon with this dynamic combination of pinks, purple, and gold.
70. Fresh Spring
License this image via Katya Havok.
Pastel hues are known for their delicacy. These punchy pastels aren’t afraid to hide from saturation.
Pack a punch in your next design with these energetic hues and backgrounds.
71. Summer Getaway
License this image via alphaspirit.it.
This primary color scheme is certain to bring back fond memories of being on the open road.
72. Bohemian Motif
License this image via flovie.
Digital crafts like embroidery transform designs by adding a touch of unexpected tactile texture.
73. Coral Anemone
License this image via Virrage Images.
Deep-sea inspiration doesn’t have to come in shades of blue or green.
74. Striking Macaw
License this image via Narupon Nimpaiboon.
The color combinations of bright yellow, red, green, and blue are perfect for youthful kid-friendly designs.
75. Spring Fling
License this image via LaraP_photo.
Add a hint of spring florals to any design for an immersive nature experience. Add to event flyers, posters, or social media posts.
Warm Color Combinations
Warm hues contain reds, oranges, and yellows, along with a combination of the three hues. These stimulating colors give off rays of happiness and optimism, in contrast to the mellow nature of cool colors.
Also, these colors tend to be vibrant, so think about using warmer tones in moderation or paired with cool hues to create a natural balance.
76. Koi Pond
License this image via SAHACHATZ.
Find your Zen with this koi-inspired color combination of gold, red-orange, and neutral grays.
77. Japanese Gardens
License this image via Moustache Girl.
Transport your viewers with this charming color combination consisting of energetic olive green, orange, and pink, balanced with a deep black.
78. Citrus Punch
License this image via Zamurovic Brothers.
These blood orange hues are sure to pack a citrusy twist. Incorporate fruity palettes to sweeten your designs.
79. Mango Dream
License this image via Elena Veselova.
The perfect shade of mango-yellow pairs well with a dark green to convey health and vitality.
80. Wood Fired
License this image via Africa Studio.
Serve up this savory color combination the next time you’re branding a pizzeria.
81. Terracotta Marble
License this image via Mariusz Szachowski.
The intricate swirls and streaks ingrained into marble are a true natural luxury. Add a touch of unrefined elegance by integrating marbleized effects into your designs.
82. Lush & Luxurious
License this image via Ironika.
Plush purples and burnt oranges are the ideal color combination for upscale applications.
83. Sushi Platter
License this image via Natalia Lisovskaya.
This seafood-themed color combination is sure to make your stomach rumble.
84. Bird in the Shadows
License this image via smutan.
This monochromatic color scheme has a wonderful range of light to dark, making it practical for many designs.
85. Rustic & Traditional
License this image via Andreas G. Karelias.
If you’re looking for a timeless color combination with a little punch of color, this is the theme for you.
86. Butterfly Bliss
License this image via Behling.
Create a serene yet energizing mood with the warm color combination of the monarch butterfly.
87. Adventurous Reds
License this image via Galyna Andrushko.
This orange, red, dusty pink, and purple combination perfectly captures the excitement of outdoor exploration.
Complementary Color Combinations
As mentioned at the top of the article, complementary color schemes include tones that are opposite from one another on the color wheel. Some complements include red and green, blue and orange, and yellow and purple.
Their contradictory nature makes these color combinations both complex and arduous to carry out. When paired successfully, the complements create a vivid contrast that’s crucial to effective design compositions.
88. Fitness Sportswear
License this image via Alena Ozerova.
This neutral gray and smoky blue color combination is offset by a punch of coral, which is complemented by a more subdued teal.
89. Textile Dyes
License this image via Nattle.
Warm pink and peach tones really bring out the light purple and blue undertones of this color combination.
90. Rooftop Views
License this image via Volodymyr TVERDOKHLIB.
This warm complementary color scheme is a terracotta rooftop dream.
91. Pure Produce
License this image via fornStudio.
This deeper, richer take on primary colors is perfect for a culinary twist.
92. Mediterranean Marine
License this image via Mikadun.
Use this rich color combination with complementary hues to attract users to your hot Summer Sale.
93. Juicy Fruits
License this image via leonori.
Feast your eyes on this mouth-watering color scheme, reminiscent of fruit-flavored candies.
94. Rusted Gates
License this image via Magsi.
Blue takes center stage in this complementary color palette, with a rich, golden brown to provide contrast.
95. Snow & Sunshine
License this image via kovop.
This unexpected take on a warm winter scene will make you want to hit the slopes at sunset.
96. Decorative Florals
License this image via Prostock-studio.
Inform and direct your clients to your website with color harmony and a flowers-so-close-you-can-almost-smell-them look.
97. Buzzing Blooms
License this image via sol.zero.
Bright yellow and blue buzz together in this springy color scheme.
98. Rainy Day
License this image via Cozy Home.
A pop of orange adds vibrance to understated blue and purples, so save this theme to brighten a rainy day.
99. Bakery Treats
License this image via klom.
Alert potential customers to hourly changes or new additions to your store with a drool-worthy photo and supporting color combination.
100. Tigers & Tundra
License this image via Jan Stria.
Combine these gorgeous colors with black and white to add drama.
101. Aged Arrangement
License this image via Maglara.
This antique red and green color combination is kept from appearing too “Christmasy” by the inclusion of a powdery blue and warm brown.
Now, to thank you for staying with us, we want to reward you with a huge, massive, and necessary pro tip.
Pro Tip: While knowing each hex code is extremely helpful, Create’s Eyedropper Tool is about to become your new best friend. It’s designed to make the task of matching colors across elements a one-click breeze.
To use it, first click the layer, graphic, or element that you want to change the color of, and click Change Color. Next to the hex codes, select the Eyedropper Tool, and drag it over the color you want to match, and then click to set!
You can also create a fresh palette all your own from an inspirational photo of your choosing with Shutterstock’s color palette generator, which allows you to make different elements cohesive without having to type in the same code over and over again.
License these images via PhotoHouse, VISTA by Westend61, Karyn Millet, Cavan Images – Offset, and Robson photo.
Color Psychology
Color psychology is the study of how colors can affect human behavior and emotions. It is important for graphic designers and digital artists to understand color psychology for this reason. By choosing the right colors for a design, artists can effectively communicate messages and trigger specific responses from their audience.
Understanding color psychology can help designers create visually appealing and impactful designs that resonate with the desired target audience. Additionally, colors can also influence consumer purchasing decisions and brand perceptions, making it crucial for designers to use colors strategically in their work.
For example, red is often associated with passion, energy, and excitement, but can also evoke feelings of anger or danger. Blue is a calming and professional color, often associated with trustworthiness, stability, and intelligence.
Yellow is bright and cheerful, evoking feelings of happiness and optimism. Green is often associated with nature, growth, and health. Purple is often seen as a color of royalty and luxury, but can also evoke feelings of creativity and mystery.
Each color has the power to evoke different emotions and meanings depending on the context in which it is used.
Download FREE Swatch Files
Download these 101 FREE swatch palettes by clicking the link below. Find pairs of colors that go well together. Each of these swatches is available in the RGB color profile, ideal for both online and web designs.
Swatch files allow you to quickly apply color to any design element in your document with ease. These swatch files can be opened in Adobe design programs in just a few clicks.
In other design applications, you can easily type the six-digit hex codes found on each color swatch in the palettes above.
License this cover image via Marina Demeshko and wacomka.
