I followed a similar approach for the yellow and blue version, which also uses complementary colors. The red dress, on the other hand, uses an analogous color scheme for the pattern, staying within a narrower range of hues.
There was a lot of back and forth between Substance 3D Painter and Unreal Engine, tweaking the colors little by little until everything felt harmonious.
One thing that really helped was asking people around me for their opinions, even if they aren’t into 3D. Everyone sees clothes and colors every day, and outside perspectives can lead to some useful suggestions.
Color theory is a great starting point, and it’s definitely helpful, but I don’t see it as a strict rulebook. While some combinations may generally be more appealing, color preferences are subjective and can vary a lot across cultures.
I’d advise you to use color theory to guide you, but don’t be afraid to break away and experiment. It’s a fun, creative, and even relaxing process, so enjoy it and let your instincts play a role.
