What color scheme involves using shades of a single color?

The choice of monochromatic color schemes is characterized by utilizing variations of a single color, which can include different shades, tints, and tones of that color. This approach emphasizes the depth and richness that can be achieved within one hue, allowing for a cohesive and harmonious look. It enables designers to create visual interest through contrast in lightness and darkness rather than through the use of multiple colors.

Monochromatic schemes are effective in conveying a unified theme or mood, as the variations in saturation and brightness help to distinguish different elements without overwhelming the viewer. This method is often used in various design contexts, including branding, interior design, and graphic design, to successfully evoke specific feelings or associations related to the single color being employed.

In contrast, other color schemes such as complementary, analogous, and triadic involve combining different colors based on their positions on the color wheel, which would not align with the concept of focusing solely on variations of one color.