What are monochromatic colors?

If you think about your favorite brand, a color probably comes to mind. Most major brands intentionally use single-color or monochromatic logos to convey a singular, memorable brand personality. Monochromatic color schemes can draw your user’s attention with a bold, cohesive look for social media, web, or graphic design. But where do you start, and what color do you choose?

Read on to learn more about:

• What is monochrome color?
• Benefits of monochromatic design—plus pitfalls to avoid
• 4 monochromatic color scheme examples
• Pro tips to apply monochromatic color to your designs with Figma

What is a monochromatic color scheme?

The name comes from the Greek words “monos” and “chroma,” meaning “one” and “color.” A monochromatic color scheme uses variations of a single color to create a unified look. First, designers reference color theory to choose a base color for their project. Then they apply different shades, tints, and tones of the base color to create a modern, minimalist color palette.

Monochrome color range: shades, tints, and tones

Savvy designers know: monochrome designs don't have to be monotonous. To lighten the palette, add white to the base color to create a lighter tint. Adding white to a primary color can produce a vivid, memorable pastel. To get darker shades, add black. Adding gray lowers base color saturation, introducing muted tones to your palette.

Why use monochrome colors?

Whether you lean into lighter pastel colors or deeper pigments, a single hue can set a mood. Designers often use monochromatic color schemes to:

• Achieve cohesion and unity for well-balanced, impactful visual experiences.
• Strengthen brand identity by highlighting key content and design elements.
• Connect with users’ thoughts and feelings through color psychology—using warm colors, cool colors, or neutral colors to stir different emotions.
• Simplify the color selection process, making it easier for teams to create stunning designs.

Monochromatic color scheme pitfalls to avoid

Leaning heavily on monochrome colors can lead to a monotonous user experience. Accent colors or color variations can help spark visual interest—just be sure to check contrast for accessibility. You can add undertones to the base color, like mixing yellow or red with gray to warm it up. Test it out before you commit—color shifts can affect your design’s mood and meaning. Adding too much red might cause alarm, while blue might strike a sad note.

Monochromatic color scheme alternatives

If a monochromatic scheme doesn't suit your brand, try another approach to develop your color palette. Analogous color schemes create harmony by using three colors that sit next to each other on the color wheel (such as blue, blue-violet, and violet). For more contrast and vibrancy, try complementary colors, opposite each other on the color wheel.

Apply monochrome colors to your designs with Figma

Want to try out a monochromatic scheme for your next design project? Figma’s professional design resources can help kickstart your color palette:

• Browse Figma’s design basics library to read up on color theory, color symbolism, primary colors, and more.
• Get inspired by the monochrome designs and templates from Figma’s expert design community.
• Explore color with your design team using Figma’s robust design tool.