What Color is KU Crimson
KU Crimson is a dynamic, high-octane red that commands immediate visual attention. While rooted in the academic tradition of the University of Kansas, this specific hex code represents a modernized, digital interpretation of the classic hue. It embodies a spirit of determination and collegiate pride, standing distinct from darker, muddier maroons.
What color is opposite KU Crimson?
The opposite color to KU Crimson is Bright Turquoise (#00e6da).
Additional Information
- Color Family: Red
- Temperature: Warm
- Associated Season: Autumn
- Complementary Color: #00E6DA
- Brightness: 71/255
- Saturation: 100%
Colors That Pair Well With KU Crimson
Complementary
Pair with Bright Turquoise for a harmonious, balanced look. Great for backgrounds and accents.
High Contrast
Use Cyan / Aqua 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)
KU Crimson History
Historically, true crimson dye was derived from the dried bodies of the kermes insect found in the Mediterranean, a pigment so valuable it signified royalty and the church. In 1896, the University of Kansas adopted this color to honor Colonel John J. McCook of Harvard, explicitly linking their visual identity to the prestige of the Ivy League tradition.
Unlike the deep, organic alizarin crimson favored by Renaissance painters like Titian, #E8000D is a synthetic triumph. It mirrors the intensity of cadmium red, a pigment developed in the early 20th century that allowed modernists to explore pure, unadulterated saturation. This specific shade moves away from biological dyes toward a chemical perfection meant for screens and banners.
Meaning & Psychology
This shade acts as a powerful stimulant, raising heart rates and evoking a sense of urgency. In color psychology, such a vivid red is inextricably linked to passion, power, and a primal drive to succeed. It is not a background player; it demands the viewer's full focus and energy.
Culturally, this red signals alertness and importance. It moves beyond the danger of a stop sign into the realm of athletic aggression and competitive spirit. It projects confidence without hesitation, making it a favorite for sports branding where intimidation and vitality are required.
In Nature
While rare in its pure digital intensity, this hue appears in the warning coloration of the poison dart frog or the petals of a vibrant poppy flower. It mirrors the cardinal bird's plumage or the ripe skin of a red delicious apple, utilizing high visibility to attract pollinators or warn off predators in a green-dominant world.
How To Use KU Crimson
As a Senior Designer, I advise using this red as an accent rather than a primary canvas. It is visually overwhelming in large doses. Use it for "Call to Action" buttons or headlines where you need maximum visibility and instant engagement from the user.
Accessibility is a critical challenge with this shade. You must pair it with pure white or very dark charcoal for legible text; never place it on blue or green, which causes visual vibration. It often fails contrast ratios against black text, so ensure bold typography is used for readability.
Related Words
Curated Palettes
Rock Chalk Heritage
The classic collegiate combination representing tradition and high contrast.
Modern Urgent
A sleek, dark UI palette where crimson acts as the primary alert color.
Analogous Heat
A warm, energetic gradient moving from deep red to bright citrus tones.
Color Conversions
Color Blindness Simulation
CSS Snippets
color: #E8000D;
color: rgb(232, 0, 13);
background-color: #E8000D;
border: 3px solid #E8000D;
box-shadow: 0 4px 12px #E8000D66;
background: linear-gradient(135deg, #E8000D 0%, #ffffff 100%);
Shop Premium Products in KU Crimson
This isn't just a mockup. We'll custom make high-quality home decor in this exact shade, just for you.
Ships in 3-5 daysSecure Checkout
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 KU Crimson?
Explore color palettes containing KU Crimson and discover harmonious combinations for your designs.
Analogous
Complementary
Split-complementary
Triadic
Monochromatic
Accessibility
Contrast with Black and White
Contrast with Black
UI Examples
"Color is a power which directly influences the soul."
Contrast Ratio
Contrast with White
UI Examples
"Color is a power which directly influences the soul."
Contrast Ratio
Closest Color Matches
Caran d'ache Luminance 6901
Permanent Red
#061 • #E2271B
Polychromos
light cadmium red
#117 • #F05544
Similar Colors
View all Red colors →Colors with similar hex values and appearance to KU Crimson
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the hex code for KU Crimson?
What colors go with KU Crimson?
Is KU Crimson accessible for text?
How do I use KU Crimson in CSS?
You can use KU Crimson in CSS with its hex code. Here is an example class:
.ku-crimson {
background-color: #E8000D;
color: #FFFFFF;
}For more snippets including gradients, see the CSS snippets section.