How to create an Autumn Colour Palette

Learn how to create the perfect autumn colour palette with our comprehensive guide. Explore soft, deep, and warm autumn hues, and discover tips for applying these rich and vibrant colors to your design projects.

7/4/20243 min read

mug of coffee with marshmallow in front of open book on tray
mug of coffee with marshmallow in front of open book on tray

As the leaves change and the air turns crisp, autumn presents a unique opportunity for designers to tap into the rich, vibrant colors of the season. Whether you're working on a graphic design project, revamping your website, or planning a cozy home interior, an autumn colour palette can evoke the warmth and beauty of this time of year. In this guide, we'll explore how to create the perfect autumn colour palette, including tips on choosing soft, deep, and warm hues.

Understanding the Autumn Colour Palette

An autumn colour palette typically includes shades that mirror the changing leaves and the golden light of fall. Think burnt oranges, deep reds, golden yellows, and rich browns. These colors can be both bold and subdued, offering versatility for various design needs.

Creating Your Autumn Colour Palette

Creating an autumn colour palette involves a mix of creativity and an understanding of color theory. Here are some steps to guide you through the process:

Step 1: Gather Inspiration

Start by gathering inspiration from the natural world. Take a walk outside or look at photographs of autumn landscapes. Additionally, you can have a look at free resources online such as Pinterest or Dribble.

Once you are ready, we suggest you create your color palette with tools such as Colorlab Palette Generator

Step 2: Choose Your Base Colors

Select a few base colors that will anchor your palette. For an autumn palette, these could be shades of orange, red, or brown. These base colors should reflect the core essence of autumn.

Step 3: Add Accent Colors

Next, choose accent colors to complement your base shades. Accent colors add depth and interest to your palette. For a soft autumn colour palette, consider muted greens or blues. For a deep autumn palette, opt for rich purples or dark grays. For a warm autumn palette, bright yellows or rusts work well.

Step 4: Test Your Palette

Before finalizing your palette, test how the colors look together. Create sample designs or use color swatches to see how the colors interact. Make adjustments as needed to ensure your palette is harmonious and visually appealing.

Step 5: Apply Your Palette

Once you're satisfied with your autumn colour palette, start applying it to your projects. Whether you're designing a website, creating graphics, or decorating a space, use your palette to guide your color choices and create a cohesive look.

This palette is characterized by muted, gentle colours. Soft autumn hues include dusty pinks, soft browns, and faded yellows. These colours create a calm and soothing aesthetic, perfect for projects that require a subtle touch of autumn.

a path through a park lined with trees with yellow leaves
a path through a park lined with trees with yellow leaves

Typical Autumn Colour Palette compositions

brown dried leaves on ground
brown dried leaves on ground

For a more intense and dramatic effect, a deep autumn colour palette includes darker shades such as burgundy, deep green, and dark brown. These colours are ideal for creating striking visuals that convey the depth and richness of the season.

a group of people sitting in a field in front of a castle
a group of people sitting in a field in front of a castle

Warm autumn colours are vibrant and inviting, featuring bright oranges, warm reds, and golden yellows. This palette is perfect for designs that need a lively and cheerful vibe, embodying the warmth of autumn.

Soft Autumn colours suggestions

  • Dusty Pink - #D8A7B1

  • Soft Brown - #A0836B

  • Faded Yellow - #E8C878

  • Muted Green - #A1B09F

  • Warm Taupe - #B69B7E

Soft Autumn Colour Palette:

Deep Autumn Colour Palette:

Deep Autumn colours suggestions

  • Burgundy - #7B3F61

  • Deep Green - #354F52

  • Dark Brown - #4B2E2A

  • Rich Purple - #512D6D

  • Charcoal Gray - #4A4A4A

Warm Autumn Colour Palette:

Warm Autumn colours suggestions

  • Bright Orange - #E67E22

  • Warm Red - #C0392B

  • Golden Yellow - #F39C12

  • Rust - #D35400

  • Amber - #F1C40F