Coral red is a vibrant reddish-orange color that derives its name from the sea coral due to their similarity in color. It sits between orange and red on the color wheel and has become associated with warmth, energy, and outdoor life. In design, fashion, and decor, coral red is often chosen to make a bold, lively statement. But what exactly defines this color and sets it apart from other reds and oranges?
Defining Coral Red
In basic color theory, coral red is considered a tertiary color, meaning it is achieved by combining the primary colors of red and yellow. It has a yellowish tint that differentiates it from pure reds like crimson and scarlet. Coral red is lighter and more saturated than burgundy, maroon, and other darker reds.
On the RGB color model, coral red has the following values:
- Red: 255
- Green: 127
- Blue: 80
In the CMYK color model used for print, its composition is:
- Cyan: 0
- Magenta: 49
- Yellow: 50
- Black: 0
The hex code of coral red is #FF7F50. This code can be used in web design and graphic design applications when selecting a coral red color.
Variations of Coral Red
There are a few major variations of coral red to note:
- Light coral – Has a pinkish tint and hex code #F08080.
- Dark coral – Deeper and more muted with a brownish tone and hex code #CD5B45.
- Orange coral – Vibrant reddish-orange with a hex code of #FF7F50.
- Blue coral – Mixes red with a bluish overtone and has a hex code of #E52B50.
So while coral red is defined by its RGB/CMYK values, there are lighter, darker, more orange, and more pinkish shades that all fall under the coral umbrella. The tone can range from soft to electric depending on the intensity and saturation.
Coral Red vs. Similar Colors
How does coral red compare to other reds and oranges?
Coral Red vs. Orange
Orange is a secondary color made from red and yellow. Coral red sits between orange and red, so it is more red-based with subtle orange tones mixed in. Orange is brighter and more golden than coral red.
Coral Red vs. Red-Orange
Red-orange is sometimes used interchangeably with coral red. However, red-orange is a more generic mix of red and orange. Coral red refers to more specific hues likened to the coral reef.
Coral Red vs. Salmon
Salmon is lighter and pinker than coral red. It is a peachy-pink color named after the color of salmon flesh. Coral red has more pure red and less pink in its makeup.
Coral Red vs. Vermilion
Vermilion is a vivid red-orange shade leaning more towards red. It is darker and less vibrant than coral red. Vermilion also contains more brown tones.
Coral Red vs. Rose
Rose is a pinkish tone associated with the rose flower. It is much less saturated than coral red and contains no yellow tones. Coral red is brighter and more orange than any shade of rose.
Uses and Symbolism of Coral Red
What does coral red represent and what is it used for?
Design and Fashion
In fashion and interior design, coral red is a bold, summery color often paired with neutrals like white, beige, gray, and navy. It brings to mind warmth, tropical flowers, and ocean themes. Coral red injects energy and vibrancy into any space.
Makeup
Coral red lipstick has become a popular trend, giving the lips a pop of color. It flatters a wide range of skin tones. Blush and eye shadows are also available in coral red hues.
Branding
Coral red is an energetic brand color used by companies like Airbnb, Canon, and Netflix. It helps brands stand out and grabs consumer attention.
Symbolism
As a bright, warm color, coral red is associated with energy, happiness, creativity, success, and optimism. It also represents pleasure, sexuality, and being carefree thanks to its beachy connotations.
How Lighting Affects Coral Red
The way coral red appears is affected by the lighting conditions where the color is seen. Here is how different light temperatures change the look of coral red:
| Lighting | Effect on Coral Red |
|---|---|
| Natural daylight | Appears vivid, bright, and saturated |
| Cool white fluorescent | Has a slightly more pinkish tone |
| Warm white fluorescent | Orange tones are accentuated |
| Incandescent | Browner undertones become more pronounced |
| LED | Looks slightly less vibrant than natural light |
As displayed in the table, coral red is very dependent on lighting. Its appearance shifts under different light sources. This is important to keep in mind for design, photography, and retail display purposes.
Matching Colors for Coral Red
What colors pair well with coral red? Here are some great color schemes:
- Coral red and navy blue – Classic color pairing perfect for summer
- Coral red and gray – Creates an elegant, sophisticated look
- Coral red and white – Crisp, beachy combination
- Coral red and light blue – Relaxed tropical vibe
- Coral red and teal – Vibrant but easy on the eyes
- Coral red and chartreuse – Playful and eccentric
Cooler neutrals and accent colors tend to work best with coral red to prevent becoming too warm. However, don’t be afraid to experiment with different color combinations featuring coral red.
Conclusion
Coral red is a fiery reddish-orange color that evokes tropical motifs. It sits between red and orange on the color wheel with light yellow tones. Coral red comes in lighter, darker, more pink, and more orange varieties but is defined by specific RGB/CMYK values and hex code #FF7F50. It pops against neutrals like navy, gray, and white and brings energetic flair to design and fashion when used right. So next time you see that glowing coral color, you’ll know exactly what makes it unique.