White, ivory, bone, cream, oyster, eggshell, vanilla, coconut, ice … so many ways to describe the colour and white websites are no exception, invoking a feeling or reaction is key in design.
As a designer, choosing the right colour scheme for a website is crucial. While there are numerous options available, white is a popular choice that has many benefits.
In this article, we will explore the reasons why white is used in web design, which colors complement it, and why it is a great colour choice for websites.
We will discuss the psychology behind white, its popularity, when not to use it, and provide examples of brands that use white.
Why is White Used in Web Design?
White is a neutral colour that provides a sense of simplicity, elegance, and minimalism.
It can be used to create a clean and uncluttered look that is especially useful for websites with a lot of information or data.
White can create contrast with other colours or images, making them stand out and attract users’ attention.
It is also associated with space and clarity, making it an ideal choice for websites aiming to convey these characteristics.
White can create a sense of openness and spaciousness, which can provide an immersive and engaging user experience.
What Colour Goes Well with White?
White can complement almost any colour, but it pairs particularly well with black, grey, and navy blue. These colours create a classic, timeless look that works well for many brands.
Other colours that pair well with white include pastel shades, pale pink, light blue, and light green.
Related: See our 5 Cool Examples of Blue Websites
Why is White a Good Colour for a Website?
White is a great colour for a website because of its neutrality, which allows other colours and images to stand out.
Additionally, it can create a sense of simplicity, elegance, and spaciousness, making it ideal for websites that want to convey these characteristics.
White Psychology
White is associated with light, goodness, perfection, and innocence. It represents a successful beginning and is often used in heraldry to depict faith and purity.
In advertising, white is associated with coolness and cleanliness as it is the colour of snow. It can suggest simplicity in high-tech products and is appropriate for charitable organisations.
Angels are typically depicted wearing white, and it is associated with hospitals, doctors, and sterility, making it a good choice for medical product promotion.
Why is White a Popular Choice for Design?
White is a popular choice for design because of its versatility and simplicity. It is a neutral colour that works well with other colours and can create a clean and elegant look.
Examples of When Not to Use White
While white is a great choice for many websites, it may not be the best option for some brands. For example, it may not work well for brands that want to convey a sense of warmth or vibrancy. It may not be suitable for brands that want to stand out or make a bold statement.
Brands That Use White
Numerous brands use white in their website design, including Apple, Google, Facebook, Adidas, and Nike.
These brands use white to create a clean and minimalist look that is synonymous with their brand identity.
White is a versatile and effective colour for website design. It can create a clean and uncluttered look while allowing other colours and images to stand out. It has positive connotations, such as cleanliness – think surgery and clinical spaces.
While it may not be the best option for some brands, it is a popular choice for many and is used by numerous successful brands in their website design.
White websites for your inspiration:
1. NHS
2. SchedulingKit
3. Apple
4. Designsolo
5. Fit Training International
