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Synthwave Color Palette

Synthwave, also known as outrun or retrowave, is a genre of electronic music that originated in the 1980s and has become popular as an aesthetic in recent years. It is characterized by a retro-futuristic aesthetic, which often includes vibrant, neon-colored graphics. Synthwave is the basis for many retro-futuristic color palettes and aesthetics, which often borrow from the bold, futuristic looks of 1980s pop culture. These palettes are typically highly saturated and feature bright, neon hues, such as electric blue, hot pink, and neon green.


Synthwave color palettes often focus on a few key hues, especially purple and different shades of neon. This helps to create a cohesive, consistent look and feel, and allows designers to create graphics and designs that are instantly recognizable as part of the synthwave aesthetic.


Another important element of synthwave color palettes is the use of gradients. These are transitions between two or more colors, often achieved through blending or shading. Gradients are a popular way to add depth and dimension to graphics and designs, and they are often used in synthwave to create a sense of movement or dynamism.

Miami Vice Color Palette

One of the most iconic synthwave color palettes is the "Miami Vice" palette, which is named after the popular 1980s TV show. This palette features bright, neon hues of pink and blue, as well as bold shades of purple and green. It is a perfect example of the bold, vibrant color schemes that are characteristic of synthwave.

Electric Sunset Color Palette

Features warm, vibrant shades of orange, yellow, and pink and evokes tropical sunsets.

Neon Dreams Color Palette

Features bright, glowing hues of neon pink, blue, and green.

Synthwave color palettes are a key element of the retro-futuristic aesthetic of this genre of music. Whether you are a designer creating graphics for a synthwave project, or simply a fan of the genre, understanding and using these color palettes can help you create a cohesive, authentic synthwave look. Check out our collection of synthwave art below!