What Color is Cordovan
Cordovan is a rich, dark shade of reddish-brown that strikes a sophisticated balance between burgundy and rosewood. It offers a mature and balanced alternative to brighter crimsons, functioning as a deep neutral in many high-end palettes.
What color is opposite Cordovan?
The opposite color to Cordovan is Lochinvar (#3f8882).
Additional Information
- Color Family: Red
- Temperature: Warm
- Associated Season: Autumn
- Complementary Color: #3F8882
- Brightness: 86/255
- Saturation: 54%
Colors That Pair Well With Cordovan
Complementary
Pair with Lochinvar for a harmonious, balanced look. Great for backgrounds and accents.
High Contrast
Use Tradewind for maximum readability. Ideal for text or critical UI elements.
Harmonious Depth
Use lighter and darker shades for a sophisticated, cohesive design. Great for backgrounds, text, and subtle accents.
Color Variations
Tints (add white)
Tones (add grey)
Cordovan History
The color takes its name from the city of Córdoba, Spain, which became famous during the 7th century for its exceptional leather production. This legacy began with the Visigoths and was perfected by Moorish artisans who developed a unique tanning process. Over centuries, the term 'Cordovan' transitioned from a geographic origin to a mark of luxury craftsmanship, specifically associated with durable, non-creasing horsehide.
In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, this shade became a staple of the American 'Ivy League' look. Its longevity and ability to develop a deep patina made it the primary choice for gentlemen's footwear. By the mid-1900s, it moved from the shoe factory to the design studio, becoming a preppy icon in fashion and interior decor for its perceived weight and historical depth.
Meaning & Psychology
Psychologically, Cordovan evokes feelings of stability and groundedness. Because of its historical association with heavy textiles and dense leather, it feels physically substantial and reliable to the viewer, offering a sense of security that lighter reds lack.
The subtle red undertones provide a sense of authority without the aggression of a fire-engine red. It is often perceived as the color of intellect, which is why it is frequently found in law offices, private libraries, and academic institutions where deep focus and traditional values are emphasized.
In Nature
In the natural world, Cordovan appears in the deep pulp of overripe black cherries and the inner skin of certain beet varieties. It is also visible in the oxidized surfaces of iron-rich stones and the winter foliage of specific succulents that turn dark red to protect themselves from cold stress.
How To Use Cordovan
In modern graphic design, use Cordovan for accents or typography to convey prestige and high value. It pairs exceptionally well with muted golds and warm creams to create a classic aesthetic that remains highly readable against light backgrounds while maintaining a softer edge than pure black.
From a UI/UX perspective, Cordovan serves as an excellent foundation for brand identities that want to appear established. Designers should avoid pairing it with overly neon colors, as it can look trendy in a way that clashes with its inherent dignified character. Use it as a primary color for luxury goods or high-end financial services.
Related Words
Curated Palettes
Heritage Study
A traditional palette inspired by old-world libraries and academic prestige.
Evening Bloom
A softer, more feminine take on the shade using floral transition tones.
Modern Earth
An organic, grounded palette for interior design and lifestyle branding.
Color Conversions
Color Blindness Simulation
CSS Snippets
color: #893F45;
color: rgb(137, 63, 69);
background-color: #893F45;
border: 3px solid #893F45;
box-shadow: 0 4px 12px #893F4566;
background: linear-gradient(135deg, #893F45 0%, #ffffff 100%);
Shop Premium Products in Cordovan
Visualize and buy custom cushions made in this exact shade.
Made to order. Ships in 3-5 business days.
Product Details
Add a touch of luxury to your home with our premium Eco Velvet cushions. Soft to the touch, these cushions are perfect for adding comfort and style to any room.
- Material: Soft Eco Velvet.
- Feel: Velvety soft finish.
- Backing: Stone coloured back (or double-sided print).
- Print: Edge-to-edge vibrant color using water-based inks.
- Care: Machine washable at 30°C.
- Construction: Handmade to order with a concealed zipper.
Eco Credentials
We believe in sustainable style. Our cushions are crafted with the planet in mind.
- Made to Order: Produced only when you order, eliminating overproduction and waste.
- Water-Based Inks: Printed using neo-pigment, water-based inks that are non-hazardous, toxin-free, and vegan-friendly.
- Local Fulfilment: Produced locally where possible to reduce carbon emissions from transport.
- Vegan Friendly: No animal products are used in the production of these cushions.
What Goes With Cordovan?
Explore color palettes containing Cordovan and discover harmonious combinations for your designs.
Analogous
Accessibility
Contrast with Black and White
Contrast with Black
UI Examples
This is an example of body text using the selected color scheme.
Contrast Ratio
Contrast with White
UI Examples
This is an example of body text using the selected color scheme.
Contrast Ratio
Closest Color Matches
Similar Colors
View all Red colors →Colors with similar hex values and appearance to Cordovan
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the hex code for Cordovan?
What colors go with Cordovan?
Is Cordovan accessible for text?
How do I use Cordovan in CSS?
You can use Cordovan in CSS with its hex code. Here is an example class:
.cordovan {
background-color: #893F45;
color: #FFFFFF;
}For more snippets including gradients, see the CSS snippets section.