Chinese Red
HEX: #AA381E | Modern Palette
Color Specifications
#AA381E
170, 56, 30
11°, 82% ,66%
0, 67.06, 82.35, 33.33
About Chinese Red
Chinese Red (#AA381E) is a color with RGB(170, 56, 30) and HSL(11.14°, 82.35%, 66.67%). It is commonly associated with Energetic, Bold moods. In design, it fits Vivid, Warm styles and is suitable for Text, Button, Accent. Its complementary color is #1E90AA, which creates strong contrast. Its triadic palette includes #1EAA38 and #381EAA. The name comes from Chinese Red (English).
- HEX: #AA381E
- RGB: 170, 56, 30
- HSL: 11.14°, 82.35%, 66.67%
- Mood: Energetic, Bold
- Style: Vivid, Warm
- Use case: Text, Button, Accent
- Complementary color: #1E90AA
- Triadic colors: #1EAA38, #381EAA
- The name comes from Chinese Red (English).
Live Components
Color Palettes
Color Harmonies
Complementary
The color directly opposite on the color wheel — creates maximum contrast and vibrance.
Analogous
Colors adjacent on the wheel — naturally harmonious and pleasing to the eye.
Triadic
Three colors equally spaced 120° apart — bold, balanced, and visually rich.
Split-Complementary
Two colors flanking the complement — high contrast with less tension than full complementary.
Tetradic (Square)
Four colors at 90° intervals — rich variety, best when one color dominates.
Monochromatic
Shades and tints of the same hue — cohesive, elegant, and easy to work with.
Shades & Tints
A seamless scale of #AA381E from deepest shade to lightest tint.
Frequently Asked Questions
Name, History & Etymology
History
Red has a profound and ancient history in China, symbolizing good fortune, joy, prosperity, celebration, and protection. It is deeply embedded in Chinese mythology, traditions, and daily life. From the vermilion used in ancient palaces and temples to the red envelopes (hóngbāo) given during Lunar New Year, its presence is ubiquitous. The specific shade often referred to as 'Chinese Red' is a vibrant, warm, and somewhat deep red, often leaning towards an orange-red or a rich scarlet, distinct from cooler or bluer reds. Its use in art, opera costumes, traditional architecture, and national symbols reinforces its identity.
First Recorded Use
The concept of a distinct 'Chinese Red' likely emerged as Westerners began to categorize and describe colors prevalent in Chinese art, textiles, and symbolism. While red has been significant in China for millennia, the specific English term 'Chinese Red' as a named color gained traction during periods of increased cultural exchange and trade.
Cultural Associations
Chinese Red is arguably the most important color in Chinese culture. It is prominently featured during major holidays like Lunar New Year, weddings, and other celebratory events. It is believed to ward off evil spirits and bring good luck. The Chinese national flag features red, symbolizing the revolution and the blood of martyrs. It is also associated with passion, vitality, and happiness. The color is often paired with gold for an even more auspicious combination.
Code Snippets
/* Background */
.element {
background-color: #AA381E;
}
/* Text */
.element {
color: #AA381E;
}
/* Border */
.element {
border: 1px solid #AA381E;
}/* Linear gradient to complementary */
.element {
background: linear-gradient(
to right,
#AA381E,
#64D6F0
);
}
/* Radial gradient */
.element {
background: radial-gradient(
circle,
#AA381E,
#64D6F0
);
}// SCSS variable
$chinese-red: #AA381E;
// With RGB channels (useful for rgba() usage)
$chinese-red-r: 170;
$chinese-red-g: 56;
$chinese-red-b: 30;
// Usage
.element {
background-color: $chinese-red;
color: rgba($chinese-red-r, $chinese-red-g, $chinese-red-b, 0.8);
}