Retro aesthetics are naturally bold — gradients, neon glows, geometric shapes, textured backdrops. To keep all that energy focused, limit your palette to just two primary colors and one accent. This gives your design room to breathe while still embracing retro charm.

When the palette is small, your typography and spacing become the real heroes. Instead of relying on heavy saturation or dozens of hues, your layout communicates through contrast, structure, and hierarchy.

This technique also makes your retro design feel more modern. A controlled palette creates harmony, and helps the nostalgic elements look intentional rather than excessive. Think: warm browns as the base, orange as the electric accent, and soft tan as the highlight — a timeless retro combo.

Takeaway:
Choose fewer colors, use them consistently, and let your layout carry the personality.