Concepts, Principles and Motivations

Exploring some of the thinking behind the creation of the Rosely design system

1 minute read

If ever there was a time when we needed to surround ourselves with colours that infuse feelings of calmness and positivity into our environment, it is now. As we continue down this path of uncertainty, a time marked by a global pandemic and social distancing coupled with social unrest demanding action on equality and sustainability, people seek mindfulness and well-being as an antidote to the stress of modern day lives.

Rosely psychologically fulfil a yearning for reassurance and security. It also symbolises the brighter future that lies ahead with an cheerful palette that expresses a sense of playful freshness and optimism that brings a smile to our face as it takes us forward.


Rose Quartz

Rose Quartz is a warm and embracing gentle rose tone that conveys compassion and a sense of composure.

Freshness and Positivity

The design colour palette also includes additional colours that invokes freshness and positivity.

Constraint Based Design

Rosely has a deliberately constrained colour palette to reinforce consistency and similarity across designs.

Gender neutrality

Rosely is intended to be gender neutral and challenges traditional perceptions around color association.

Light vs Dark modes

Although there Rosely has light and dark variants, Rosely is predominantly a bright, low contrast design system. This article explains why.

Syntax Highlighting Guidelines

The Rosely colour palette can be easily used for syntax highlighting using guidelines similar to Base16

Last modified 2021-01-03: New colour system and drawings (fcd8627)