Red is a color that often evokes strong emotions and associations. When we think of the color red, things like love, anger, danger, and excitement often come to mind. Red is also a color that is linked to energy, passion, and action. But there are many shades and hues of red, from light pink to deep burgundy. In this article, we will specifically explore what the very brightest, boldest shade of true red is called.
Defining Bright Red
So what exactly constitutes a “very bright red”? In general, bright reds are those at the more vibrant, saturated end of the red color spectrum. They have a high degree of intensity and purity, without being diluted by traces of other colors like blue or yellow. Some key characteristics of bright reds include:
- High saturation – Very saturated with pure red tones, not muted or shaded towards other hues
- High value/lightness – Bright and luminous, not darkened or shaded
- High chroma – Lots of pure color pigment, allowing it to appear more vivid
- Warm undertone – Leans slightly towards orange/yellow, rather than blue/cool tones
- High contrast – Creates a strong visual impact against other colors
When we think of a bright, bold red, the classic image is a fire engine, a shining apple, or a stop sign. These are reds at their most electrifying and attention-grabbing.
Scarlet
Perhaps the most famous very bright red is scarlet. If you look up scarlet in a color dictionary, it is defined as a brilliant red color with an orange tinge. The name comes from the Persian word “saqirlāt” which referred to high-quality wool dyed in a bright red color.
Some key facts about scarlet:
- It is one of the three primary colors in the RYB (red, yellow, blue) color model along with red and yellow.
- The web color code for scarlet is #FF2400.
- It is at the end of the visible spectrum of light next to red with a wavelength of approximately 620-700 nanometers.
- When printed as ink, it is designated as a “warm red” and given the CMYK code of 0, 100, 100, 0.
Scarlet has been associated with fire, heat, blood, passion, love, and sexuality throughout history. In many cultures, it is worn by brides on their wedding day. It is also linked to courage and sacrifice.
Uses of Scarlet
Some iconic uses of scarlet through time include:
- The red uniforms of the British Royal Guards and wool coats of huntsmen.
- The cloth draped over a matador’s bullfighting cape.
- The red carpet rolled out for VIP events and Hollywood premieres.
- The bright red Ruby slippers worn by Dorothy in The Wizard of Oz.
- Scarlet lipstick, often worn as a symbol of feminine power and sensuality.
So in terms of a very bright, luminous red – scarlet is the classic example that has stood the test of time. When most people close their eyes and imagine a hot, glowing red, scarlet is likely what first comes to mind.
Other Vivid Reds
While scarlet may be the most universally recognized very bright red, there are a number of other vivid reds that also fall in this category:
Vermilion
Vermilion sits close to scarlet on the color wheel. It has the same fire-like glow but leans slightly more towards the orange side of the spectrum. It was originally made from the mineral cinnabar and was highly prized as a pigment color in Medieval and Renaissance art.
Crimson
Crimson is also regal, lush red that looks striking against black. While it is bright, it has a very slight blue undertone that makes it slightly cooler than scarlet. The crimson red of a flowing velvet cape is a classic image.
Ruby
Ruby is a more pinkish red, taking its name from the precious stone. It is said to be the color of passion, power, and nobility in color symbolism. Rubies have one of the highest refractive indexes of any gemstone, allowing them to disperse vivid red light.
Candy Apple Red
Candy apple red is the name for the supersaturated, glossy red used on the candy apples sold at fairs and carnivals. It has an incredible depth and shine that looks wet or lacquered. It is also bold red used on some sports cars and hot rods.
Fire Engine Red
Slightly lighter and more orange than scarlet, fire engine red is a color that conjures heat and emergency. It has been the preferred color used on fire trucks since they began appearing in the early 20th century.
| Name | Hue | Key Characteristics |
|---|---|---|
| Scarlet | Vivid orange-red | Saturated, luminous, warm undertone |
| Vermilion | Vivid orange-leaning red | Fire-like, radiant glow |
| Crimson | Rich blue-based red | Deep, regal, slightly cooler |
| Ruby | Pinkish red | Exudes passion, nobility |
| Candy Apple Red | Super saturated red | Glossy, lacquered, shiny |
| Fire Engine Red | Vivid orangey red | Energetic, heat, urgency |
Picking the Perfect Red
When selecting a bright red shade, consider the context and emotion you want to evoke:
- Scarlet – Universal, iconic, emotive
- Vermilion – Radiant, energetic
- Crimson – Elegant, luxurious
- Ruby – Romantic, delicate
- Candy Apple – Playful, indulgent
- Fire Engine – Urgent, intense
You also need to think about how the red will interact with skin tones, other colors, and lighting conditions. Brighter reds tend to suit darker complexions and can overpower paler skin. Lighting can also impact a red’s appearance, with incandescent bulbs intensifying warmth and fluorescents diluting intensity.
Conclusion
When we think of a bright, bold red, the primary color that comes to mind is scarlet. It has become the universal symbol for a certain vivid, luminous red that captures passion and excitement. However, there are a range of other lively reds like vermilion, crimson, ruby, candy apple, and fire engine red that also fall into the category of “very bright reds”.
Selecting the right red involves considering context, desired effect, and interaction with other elements like skin tone. But when you need to make a bold statement, a bright red never fails to turn heads and capture attention, whether elegantly or urgently. So next time you wish to add a major pop of color, turn to one of these rich, beautiful bright reds to do the trick.