Maroon is a rich, deep red color that has been popular for fabrics and fashion for centuries. Determining the exact color code for maroon can be helpful when selecting fabrics, paints, or coordinating fashion pieces.
The Origins and Meaning of Maroon
The name “maroon” comes from the French word “marron” which means chestnut. It was first used to refer to a chestnut brownish-red color in the early 1700s. By the 1800s, the word “maroon” was more commonly associated with a rich dark red.
The color maroon evokes feelings of richness, elegance, and sophistication. It is associated with luxury and prosperity. Maroon also represents passion, strength, and drive.
Key Characteristics of Maroon
Maroon sits between red and brown on the color spectrum. It is a very dark, rich shade of red that has a slightly brownish undertone.
True maroons have a hue code between 340-360 degrees on the color wheel. They are extremely dark, saturated reds.
Lighter versions of maroon have more of a reddish-brown appearance. There are many variations of maroon ranging from lighter brick reds to very dark burgundy hues.
Maroon Color Codes
In design and fashion, maroon is considered a standard basic color term. There are many specific shades and variations of maroon fabric and clothing.
The main color code systems used to identify maroon are:
- RGB color model – for digital and web colors
- HEX color codes – for web and graphic design
- Pantone Matching System – for printing and graphic design
- CMYK color model – for printing inks
The specific color codes for maroon in these systems are:
| Color Model | Maroon Color Code |
|---|---|
| RGB | 128, 0, 0 |
| HEX | #800000 |
| Pantone | PMS 201 |
| CMYK | 0, 100, 100, 50 |
These specify the precise mixture of color components needed to produce a standard maroon shade. However, there are many other custom maroon color codes depending on the specific hue.
Variations of Maroon Fabric
For maroon fabric, some of the most popular shades include:
- Burgundy – Deep wine red, HEX #800020, RGB 128, 0, 32
- Cordovan – Rich brown-toned maroon, Pantone 19-1629 TPX
- Crimson – Slightly bluish red, HEX #DC143C, RGB 220,20,60
Fabric designers and manufacturers will often specify these exact maroon shades in catalogs or on websites. Burgundy, cordovan, and crimson maroons are commonly used for clothing, upholstery, and accessories.
Using Maroon Fabric
Maroon fabric has many uses in fashion, home decor, and everyday textiles. Here are some of the most popular ways to use maroon colored fabric:
- Clothing – Jackets, pants, dresses, shirts, skirts, etc. Especially good for winter clothes.
- Formalwear – Tuxedos, bridesmaid dresses, suits, gowns, etc.
- Upholstery – Sofas, chairs, ottomans, stools, etc. Works well in traditional living rooms.
- Bedding – Quilts, duvets, pillows, sheets, etc. Provides a warm, cozy look.
- Curtains/drapes – Adds richness and depth to a room.
- Crafts – Placemats, table runners, pillow covers, bags, ribbons, etc.
Maroon fabric works well for vintage, romantic, rustic, or traditional decor themes. It pairs nicely with cream, gold, browns, or neutrals.
Finding Maroon Fabric
Maroon cotton, polyester, wool, velvet, and other fabric types can be found at most fabric stores. Online stores will also have a wide selection of maroon fabric by the yard.
Some places to look for maroon fabric include:
- Joann Fabrics
- Hobby Lobby
- Walmart
- Amazon
- Etsy
- Fabric.com
- Spoonflower – for custom printed maroon fabric
Be sure to get fabric swatches first to ensure the maroon shade matches your decor or project vision. Refer to the specific color codes when ordering.
Conclusion
With its rich, luxurious look, maroon is a versatile choice for any fabric project. While there are many variations, most maroon fabrics have a hue code between 340-360 degrees, putting them between red and brown on the color spectrum. Popular shades include burgundy, cordovan, and crimson. When shopping for maroon fabric, look for the specific RGB, HEX, Pantone, or CMYK color codes to get the perfect maroon for your needs.
