Harvard Crimson is a deep, rich shade of red that exudes a sense of tradition and prestige. This iconic color is named after Harvard University, where it has been a symbol of the institution's identity since the 19th century.

The origins of Harvard Crimson date back to 1858 when two rowers from the university chose crimson scarves to distinguish their team. Today, this color is synonymous with Harvard's legacy and excellence. You might choose to use Harvard Crimson in designs that aim to convey authority, heritage, and sophistication.

What Color Is Harvard Crimson?

Harvard Crimson is a deep, rich shade of red that evokes a sense of warmth and intensity, reminiscent of autumn leaves and ripe cherries. This unique color stands out for its boldness and depth, often seen in luxurious fabrics and classic sports cars.

Harvard Crimson Color

What Is Harvard Crimson's Meaning?

Harvard Crimson is commonly associated with the following:

  • Prestigious
  • Traditional
  • Authoritative
  • Luxurious
  • Bold

In different cultures, the color crimson can symbolize various emotions and concepts. For instance, in China, crimson is often linked to good fortune and joy, while in Western cultures, it can represent power and passion.

Harvard Crimson Hex, RGB, and CMYK Color Codes

  • Hex code: #c90016
  • RGB color code: rgb(201, 0, 22)
  • CMYK color code: 0% cyan, 100% magenta, 89% yellow, 21% black

Harvard Crimson Color Alternatives

Here are some alternatives to the color Harvard Crimson:

  • #c90048: A strong red with a hint of magenta. This color evokes passion, energy, and excitement, making it a vibrant alternative.
  • #c90038: A strong red with a hint of pink. It conveys love, warmth, and enthusiasm, offering a slightly softer, more approachable red.
  • #c90027: A strong red with a hint of dark pink. This shade suggests romance, affection, and vibrancy, perfect for a more romantic and less intense red.
  • #c90016: The original strong red. It maintains the intensity, urgency, and power of Harvard Crimson.
  • #c90005: A strong red with a hint of dark red. This deeper shade signifies determination, strength, and seriousness.
  • #c90b00: A strong red with a hint of orange. It adds boldness, confidence, and action, making it a warm alternative.
  • #c91c00: A strong red with a hint of bright orange. This color brings vitality, dynamism, and creativity, offering a brighter, more energetic red.
Harvard Crimson Color Alternatives

Harvard Crimson Color Combinations

Harvard Crimson and Forest Green (#c90016, #228B22)

This combination brings together the rich, deep red of Harvard Crimson with the earthy, calming tones of Forest Green. The contrast between these two colors creates a striking balance, making it perfect for designs that aim to convey both energy and tranquility. This pairing is ideal for holiday-themed projects or any design that seeks to evoke a sense of nature and tradition.

Harvard Crimson and Goldenrod (#c90016, #DAA520)

The warmth of Harvard Crimson paired with the golden hues of Goldenrod creates a vibrant and inviting palette. This combination exudes a sense of luxury and sophistication, making it suitable for upscale branding or festive occasions. The blend of these colors can add a touch of elegance and warmth to any design.

Harvard Crimson and Coral (#c90016, #FF7F50)

Combining Harvard Crimson with the soft, warm tones of Coral results in a lively and harmonious color scheme. This pairing is perfect for designs that aim to be both bold and approachable, offering a sense of warmth and friendliness. It's an excellent choice for creative projects, fashion, or any design that seeks to stand out while remaining inviting.

Use Harvard Crimson In Your Projects

Using harvard crimson in your design can evoke a sense of tradition and prestige. This deep, rich shade of red communicates authority, sophistication, and a timeless elegance that can elevate any project.

harvard crimson is often applied in academic and institutional branding, where it underscores a legacy of excellence and heritage. It's also a popular choice in luxury branding and high-end fashion, where its boldness and depth add a touch of opulence and refinement.