Color palette reference
Light palettes are not just white plus an accent. They combine surface steps, a readable ink color, and a restrained border so the page has hierarchy without heavy decoration.
Use two or three surface values to separate sections, then choose one strong action color. A slightly tinted neutral often creates more depth than another bright accent.
Light UI still needs a strong text system. Check body copy, placeholders, disabled states, and links independently; pale borders should not be the only way to communicate structure.
Use the check palette relationships to turn this family into an interface-ready system, or read wcag contrast for designers for the implementation decisions behind the visual output.
Editorial reviewed 2026-07-19.