One of my favorite classes in college was color theory, and since then I've considered the color wheel the most beautiful creation of all time. Until yesterday, when I discovered the wonderful world of online interactive color wheels! This one is my very favorite: http://www.sessions.edu/color-calculator. The tool is designed more for graphic designers than the fashion-forward, but everyone can benefit from some help when it comes to choosing different colors in one outfit. Sometimes the line between being eye-catching and being an eye-sore seems almost invisible.
But the color wheel can help, and this free site allows you to select a base hue (or more!) and then generate all kinds of color-blocking options. For example, shades directly across from one another are called complimentary colors. Shades touching each other are analagous. Any three colors equidistant from one another form a triad, one of the most common color-blocks seen. The color calculator offers all these color-blocking options and more to help you find a harmonious balance.
I just finished sewing a skirt for a tutorial, but was at a bit of a loss how to style it. The color is an unfathomable deep green with just a hint of blue. After doing my best to match the fabric's color, I generated the suggested triad, and fiddled with the light and darkness of the two new colors (originally brown and deep violet). The results helped me realize that the camel-colored lace sweater and lavender beaded necklace I already own will make a great impact with this skirt!
Thank you for sharing. I use the color wheel sometimes but never had the pleasure of using an interactive one! This is going to change my life – at least a little bit.
ReplyDeleteThis is my new favourite toy! Can't wait to design some stuff using this. Thanks Meghan!x
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