Chicago maroon is a dark, saturated maroon-red associated with the University of Chicago and the city’s branding. The Chicago maroon color code in hexadecimal is #800000, with RGB values 128, 0, 0. This lean reference delivers the exact numbers, usage guidance, and visual context you need to apply Chicago maroon accurately in print, digital, and brand projects.
Primary Color Specifications
Hex, RGB, and Quick Values
The core Chicago maroon color code is best captured in a small set of exact values for repeatable results. Use these as your single source of truth across tools and teams.
| Attribute | Verified Detail | Source Type |
|---|---|---|
| Hex | #800000 | Brand/Design Standard |
| RGB | 128, 0, 0 | Brand/Design Standard |
| CMYK | 0%, 100%, 100%, 50% | Derived Print Reference |
| HSL | 0°, 100%, 25% | Derived Reference |
| WCAG Contrast (on White) | 7.01:1 (Large Text AAA) | Calculated |
Visual and Contextual Profile
What Chicago Maroon Looks Like
Visually, Chicago maroon reads as a dark, weighty red with minimal blue or purple shift. At #800000, it is neither brown nor purple-leaning; it is a straightforward, muted maroon that conveys tradition and authority. The color passes WCAG AAA for large text on white, making it accessible for headlines and UI elements when used intentionally.
When to Use Chicago Maroon
- University of Chicago athletics, stationery, and formal templates.
- Higher-ed digital interfaces where institutional identity requires a deep, trustworthy red.
- Editorial design and print materials that need strong contrast without harsh brightness.
Practical Application and Accessibility
Using the Chicago Maroon Color Code in Design Tools
In design software, enter the Chicago maroon color code directly by hex (#800000) or RGB (128, 0, 0). For print workflows, set CMYK to 0, 100, 100, 50 as a close approximation; always calibrate with your printer for final fidelity. On web projects, pair the color with white or light neutrals to retain legibility and brand clarity.
Contrast and Readability Checks
Because the maroon is very dark, verify contrast against backgrounds. On white, large text meets AAA; on mid or dark backgrounds, contrast improves. Avoid using #800000 on near-black surfaces, and test small body text for accessibility-critical projects.
Relationship to Other Maroon and Red Tones
How Chicago Maroon Compares
Chicago maroon is deeper and less bright than standard web maroon (#800000 sits midway between brown and red). Compared to cardinal red (#C8102E), it is notably darker and more subdued. Compared to burgundy (#800020), it lacks the subtle blue undertone, making it a cleaner, more neutral maroon for strict brand systems.
| Color Name | Hex | Relation to Chicago Maroon | Use Case |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chicago Maroon | #800000 | Baseline | Brand, Print, Formal |
| Maroon (web) | #800000 | Matches exactly | Web Standard |
| Cardinal Red | #C8102E | Lighter, brighter | Accent, Highlight |
| Burgundy | #800020 | Slightly bluer | Elegant, Textured |
History and Branding Notes
Chicago maroon originates from early 20th-century branding for the University of Chicago, chosen to signal tradition and academic gravitas. Over time, the exact hex #800000 became codified in official identity guidelines. City-adjacent marketing and sports applications adopted the same code to strengthen visual cohesion, even if actual pigments vary by substrate.
Key Takeaways
- Chicago maroon color code is consistently #800000 (RGB 128, 0, 0).
- Works well for headlines and UI elements; pair for strong contrast.
- Darker and more neutral than cardinal or burgundy; ideal for institutional identities.
- Verify print output and contrast to ensure legibility on dark and light surfaces.