Guardsman Red
General Information about #CC0000
The color #cc0000, also known as Guardsman Red, is a vivid and intense shade of red. It is composed of 80% red, 0% green, and 0% blue in the RGB color model. In the CMYK color model, it consists of 0% cyan, 100% magenta, 100% yellow, and 20% black. This hexadecimal color is often associated with strong emotions such as passion, energy, and excitement. It is widely used in various applications, from branding and marketing to fashion and design. Its boldness and visibility make it an excellent choice for drawing attention and creating a sense of urgency. However, its intensity also requires careful consideration of its context and usage to avoid overwhelming or creating a negative impression.
The hex color #cc0000, also known as Guardsman Red, presents significant accessibility challenges, particularly in text applications. Its low luminance value necessitates careful consideration of contrast ratios to ensure readability for individuals with visual impairments. According to WCAG guidelines, a contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 is recommended for normal text and 3:1 for large text against its background. Given the intensity of this red, using it for text on a white or light background would likely fail these contrast tests. Therefore, it is advisable to pair Guardsman Red with very light colors for backgrounds or to use it sparingly for decorative elements rather than primary text. When using it for interactive elements such as buttons or links, sufficient visual cues beyond color alone must be provided to accommodate users who may have color vision deficiencies. Careful planning is crucial to make content accessible and user-friendly.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
A slightly lighter red that offers better contrast against dark backgrounds while maintaining a similar aesthetic.
A deeper, less saturated red that can be easier on the eyes for prolonged viewing and may offer better accessibility.
This color offers a lighter shade and is often suitable when you want to imply a sense of warmth.
Applications
Web Design Accents
In web design, Guardsman Red can be used as an accent color to draw attention to specific elements such as calls to action, error messages, or important notifications. Its boldness makes it suitable for creating a sense of urgency or highlighting key information. However, it should be used sparingly to avoid overwhelming the user and negatively impacting the overall aesthetic. Effective implementation requires careful balancing with neutral colors and sufficient white space to maintain a clean and professional look. It is also useful for branding purposes, especially if the brand wants to convey feelings of energy and excitement.
Beauty and Cosmetics
In the beauty industry, Guardsman Red is a popular choice for lipsticks and nail polishes. Its vibrant and attention-grabbing nature makes it ideal for creating a bold and confident look. This shade of red can complement a variety of skin tones, but it is essential to consider the undertones when selecting the right hue. When using Guardsman Red in makeup, it is often paired with neutral eye makeup and a subtle blush to avoid overpowering the face. It embodies style and sophistication.
Interior Design
In interior design, #cc0000 can be used as an accent wall color in a living room to add warmth. However, using the color in excess could potentially overstimulate the senses, causing restlessness. It is suitable for accent walls in living rooms or dining areas, or as a statement color in furniture or decor. It can be paired with neutral tones such as gray, white, or beige to create a balanced and harmonious space.