My Favorite Color Palettes for Retro-Inspired Surface Design (And Yours to Steal!)
When it comes to retro-inspired surface design, color does a lot of the heavy lifting. It’s what instantly communicates the vibe whether it’s funky 70s wallpaper, a groovy 60s floral, or a playful mid-century modern pattern. For me, color is where the magic starts.
Over the years, I’ve created and refined a library of retro palettes that make my designs feel warm, nostalgic, and totally me. And today, I’m sharing a few of my all-time favorites with you.
1. The Mustard & Peach Classic
This is my go-to for vintage floral designs. Think: sun-faded curtains, grandma’s retro dishes, and summer afternoons in the ’70s.
Palette:
- Mustard Yellow
- Burnt Orange
- Soft Peach
- Warm Cream
- Dusty Olive
Use it for: Groovy florals, pattern repeats, vintage-inspired illustrations, branding for nostalgic products.
2. The Mid-Century Cool
Perfect for mid-century house portraits, geometric prints, or pattern collections with a sleek modern twist.
- Avocado Green
- Teal
- Charcoal Gray
- Warm Brick
- Soft Beige
Use it for: Atomic prints, abstract shapes, retro home decor illustrations, branding for minimalist vintage lovers.
3. The Ice Cream Social
This one screams soda fountains, 1950s signage, and diner booths with checkered floors.
Palette:
- Aqua Blue
- Bubblegum Pink
- Soft Butter Yellow
- Cream
- Cherry Red
Use it for: Playful patterns, summer-themed prints, children’s retro party goods, sweet sticker packs.
4. The Earthy ‘70s
Inspired by corduroy couches, shag carpets, and record players. This one’s cozy, grounded, and perfect for fall designs.
Palette:
- Rust
- Goldenrod
- Olive
- Cocoa Brown
- Cream
Use it for: Autumn collections, apparel designs, screen printed posters, or journal covers.
5. The Desert Disco
This is a more modern retro twist—perfect for those blending nostalgic textures with trendy aesthetics.
Palette:
- Terra Cotta
- Soft Mauve
- Dusty Rose
- Sage
- Gold Foil Accent
Use it for: Luxe surface patterns, Procreate textures, stationery, or digital planners with retro flair.
Want These Color Palettes as Swatches?
I’ve turned these exact color palettes (and more) into downloadable color swatches you can use in:
Procreate
👉 [Get the Retro Color Palette Pack Here]
(Available as an instant digital download – perfect for surface designers, illustrators, and retro art lovers!)
Which Retro Palette Is Your Favorite?
I’d love to know which one caught your eye drop a comment below or tag me @yourhandle with your artwork using one of these palettes! Let’s keep bringing retro magic into the modern world