When we first released the Radiant Panels Pullover, I knew it would become a canvas for color exploration. With its bold geometric blocks and clean lines, this design invites you to play with color theory in a way that's both accessible and deeply satisfying. Today, I'm excited to share eight striking color combinations we've created to spark your imagination.
The art of choosing colors
Selecting colors for a color-blocked design can feel both exciting and slightly overwhelming. Where do you start? Here are some approaches I find helpful when planning an intarsia project like the Radiant Panels Pullover:
1. Consider color relationships
Our original Radiant Panels Pullover features complementary colors—blue and orange—which sit opposite each other on the color wheel. This creates a vibrant, energetic feel that naturally draws attention. But complementary pairs aren't the only option:
Analogous colors: Choosing colors that neighbor each other on the color wheel (like blues and greens) creates a harmonious, cohesive look.
Triadic colors: Three colors equidistant on the color wheel offer balanced contrast with plenty of vibrancy.
Monochromatic: Various shades of the same color create subtle, sophisticated depth.
Neutral with a pop: Pairing neutrals with a single vibrant accent creates focused interest.
2. Think about contrast levels
The level of contrast between your colors dramatically affects the final look:
High contrast combinations: Make the geometric shapes more pronounced and graphic.
Low contrast palettes: Create a more subtle, textural effect where the stitch pattern becomes more important than the color blocking.
Value contrast (light vs. dark): Can be just as impactful as hue contrast.
3. Consider your personal style
The most important factor in selecting colors is considering how they'll integrate into your wardrobe:
What colors do you reach for most often?
Do you prefer to make a bold statement or wear more subdued pieces?
Will you wear this as a statement piece or as a versatile layer?
Eight inspired color combinations
Now, let's explore eight different approaches to color for the Radiant Panels Pullover, each with its own distinct personality:
1. Classic complementary (original)Colors: Lit, Betty White, Wink, Skylar Why it works: This blue-orange and cream combination offers vibrant contrast while remaining wearable. The complementary relationship creates natural energy.
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2. Jewel tonesColors: Surf's Up, Sloe Gin, Cherries & Berries, Look at the Stars Why it works: These rich, saturated jewel tones create a luxurious, dramatic look. The triadic relationship offers balance despite the intensity. |
3. Vibrant harmonyColors: Mille Pink, Soft Love, Potion, Hyper Blue Why it works: This energetic palette plays with varying intensities of pinks and purples. The bright violet blue provides depth, while the contrasting pinks create visual interest. The pale violet softens the overall effect, creating a joyful combination with balanced intensity. |
4. Spring gardenColors: Spearmint, Mellow Yellow, Potion, Wink Why it works: This garden-inspired palette balances cool purples with warm yellows and greens. The contrasting tones create unexpected harmony while evoking blooming flowers against fresh foliage—naturally balanced, just like a well-designed garden. |
5. Forest and meadowColors: Surf's Up, Spearmint, Soft Love, Betty White Why it works: This nature-inspired combination pairs analogous greens with a cream and complementary pink. It balances harmony and interest. |
6. Modern minimalColors: Gosling, Mr. Toad, Careless Whisper, Betty White Why it works: This grayscale palette lets the geometric shapes take center stage. The design becomes about texture and form rather than color. |
7. Bold berriesColors: Hot Like Me, Cherries & Berries, Mille Pink, Soft Love Why it works: Deep red and vibrant raspberry are anchored by a soft pink, creating contrast while maintaining sophistication. |
8. Seaside bluesColors: Look at the Stars, Hyper Blue, Wink, Potion Why it works: This monochromatic blue palette offers depth through value contrast rather than hue contrast. It's sophisticated and infinitely wearable. |
Finding your perfect combination
The beauty of the Radiant Panels Pullover lies in its versatility as a canvas for personal expression. Here are some practical tips for finding your perfect color combination:
Use a shade card: Our &Make DK shade card is invaluable for planning your color story. Seeing the actual yarn colors side by side helps you visualize the final result.
Try the "squint test": Squint at your chosen colors together. This reduces them to their basic values and helps you see if you have enough contrast where you want it.
Consider your skin tone: Colors that complement your personal coloring will make the finished garment more flattering to wear.
Start with a favorite: Choose one color you absolutely love, then build the other colors around it.
Look to nature: Some of the most beautiful color combinations can be found in landscapes, flowers, or even food. Take inspiration from the world around you!
Your turn to create
We'd love to see which colors you choose for your Radiant Panels Pullover!
Share your color combinations or finished projects on social media using #RadiantPanelsPullover and #TheFibreCo so we can admire your creative vision.
— Daphne Marinopoulos, The Fibre Co. Founder
