Crimson (#dc143c) Color Meaning, Codes and Information

A complete guide to Crimson (#dc143c) covering color values, harmonies, shades, meaning, and practical uses across design, branding, and everyday visuals.

Crimson (#dc143c) Color Information

Crimson (#dc143c) RGB value is (220, 20, 60). The hex color red value is 220, green is 20, and blue is 60. Its HSL format shows a hue of 348°, saturation of 83%, and lightness of 47%, while the CMYK process values are 0%, 91%, 73%, and 14%.

Colors that pair well with Crimson (#dc143c) include Hollywood Cerise (#F400A1), Signal Orange (#D84B20), and Malachite (#0BDA51), as they maintain visual balance and harmony, whereas Harlequin Green (#46CB18), Palatinate Blue (#273BE2), and Robins Egg Blue (#1FCECB) tend to conflict with this color due to strong contrast or opposing tonal characteristics.

Clear image showing Crimson color swatch with hex value #DC143C and RGB value (220,20,60)
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Crimson (#dc143c) Color Meaning

Crimson (#DC143C) is a bold, vivid red with slightly blue undertones. It belongs to the classic red family and conveys passion, vitality, and intensity. Designers often use Crimson in branding, interiors, and fashion to evoke confidence, energy, and dramatic flair. Its strong tone naturally draws attention. Historically, Crimson (#DC143C) comes from the dye produced by the kermes insect in ancient times, prized for its vibrant red hue. It has symbolized royalty, courage, and sacrifice across cultures, appearing in flags, art, and ceremonial attire. Spiritually, Crimson is linked to love, devotion, and life force, often appearing in sacred and symbolic contexts. Crimson (#DC143C) symbolizes passion, vitality, and courage. Across cultures, bold reds are associated with love, strength, and high energy. Its visual presence is intense and commanding, perfect for focal points and impactful designs. Interestingly, Crimson pairs beautifully with muted grays, soft whites, or deep blues, producing striking yet balanced compositions.

Color Conversion

Accurate conversions of Crimson (#dc143c) across RGB, Hex, CMYK, HSL, and Lab ensure consistent color fidelity across digital, print, and design applications.

HEX
#dc143c
RGB
rgb(220, 20, 60)
HSL
hsl(348°, 83%, 47%)
CMYK
cmyk(0%, 91%, 73%, 14%)
HSV
hsv(348°, 91%, 86%)
XYZ
30.5810 16.0422 5.7596
Yxy
16.0422 0.5838 0.3062
Hunter Lab
40.0527 5.7097 1.3822
CIE-Lab
47.0298 70.9358 33.5949

RGB Values & CMYK Values

Detailed RGB and CMYK values of Crimson (#dc143c) displayed in a horizontal bar provide clear reference for digital and print color accuracy.

RGB Channels

Red220 / 255 (86%)
86%
Green20 / 255 (8%)
Blue60 / 255 (24%)
24%

CMYK Ink Density

Cyan0 / 100 (0%)
Magenta91 / 100 (91%)
91%
Yellow73 / 100 (73%)
73%
Key (Black)14 / 100 (14%)
14%

Color Variations

A full range of Crimson (#dc143c) variations, including tints, shades, and tones, provides highlights, depth, and subtle desaturated options for UI design.

Color Harmonies

Harmonious color schemes for Crimson (#dc143c) created using the color wheel ensure visually balanced palettes.

Analogous

Colors adjacent on the color wheel (30° apart)

Complementary

Colors opposite on the color wheel (180° apart)

Split Complementary

Three colors using one base hue and the two hues beside its opposite

Triadic

Three colors evenly spaced (120° apart)

Tetradic

Four colors forming a rectangle on the wheel

Square

Four colors evenly spaced (90° apart)

Double Split Complementary

Four colors formed from two base hues and the colors next to their opposites

Monochromatic

Variations of a single hue

Contrast Checker (WCAG)

Luminance contrast ratios for Crimson (#dc143c) against standard backgrounds ensure readable, accessible text following Contrast Checker and WCAG 2.1 AA/AAA standards.

#FFFFFF
#dc143c

Sample Text

This is how your text will look with these colors.

Large Text (18pt+)

4.99:1
WCAG AA
WCAG AAA

Normal Text

4.99:1
WCAG AA
WCAG AAA

UI Components

4.99:1
WCAG AA
WCAG AAA

Color Blindness Simulator

Simulated views of Crimson (#dc143c) for different color vision deficiencies help identify potential confusion using the Color Blindness Simulator.

Normal Vision

Crimson (#dc143c)

protanopia

#858432

Note: These simulations are approximations. Actual color vision deficiency varies by individual.

CSS Examples

Background Color

background-color: #dc143c;

Text Color

color: #dc143c;

Sample Text

Border Color

border: 2px solid #dc143c;

Box Shadow

box-shadow: 0 4px 6px #dc143c40;

Text Shadow

text-shadow: 2px 2px 4px #dc143c;

Sample Text

Gradient

background: linear-gradient(135deg, #dc143c 0%, #820c24 100%);

Seamless Patterns

High-resolution seamless patterns featuring Crimson (#dc143c) provide ready-to-use backgrounds, wallpapers, and print designs for any project.

Diagonal Stripes
Polka Dots
Chevron
Diamond Grid
Hexagon
Waves
Crosshatch
Zigzag
Brick Wall
Triangles
Circles Grid
Herringbone

Icons

A collection of popular icons in Crimson (#dc143c) offers ready-to-use visuals for interfaces, designs, and creative projects.

Real-World Applications

Real-world mockups of Crimson (#dc143c) showcase its versatility across fashion, interiors, branding, and product packaging.

Fashion
Colored T-Shirt
Fashion
Baseball Cap
Interior
Living Room
Exterior
Office Complex
BRAND
Brands
Aluminum Can
Vehicle
Glossy Sportscar
Brands
Shopping Bag
Interior
Matte Wall
Brands
Flagship Phone

Useful Color Tools

A curated set of tools to help apply, analyze, and manage colors effectively in your projects

Crimson (#dc143c) Color FAQs

Frequently asked questions about Crimson (#dc143c) color meaning, symbolism, and applications. Click on any question to expand detailed answers.