Coral Color: HEX Code, RGB and Meaning

Coral is a warm pinkish orange, lively and friendly, somewhere between peach and red.

HEX is one common value Last updated:

Coral#FF7F50
HEX#FF7F50
RGBrgb(255, 127, 80)
HSLhsl(16, 100%, 66%)
CMYKcmyk(0%, 50%, 69%, 0%)

Color definitions vary by source. The HEX above is one common value for "coral" from the open color-name-list dataset, not an official standard. CMYK is a simple conversion; printed results depend on ink and paper.

What coral means

Coral feels sociable. It has the heat of orange softened by pink, so it comes across as warm and flattering rather than aggressive. Many people find it more approachable than red.

It has a summery, seaside association, and it tends to signal optimism and playfulness. In moderation it adds liveliness; in large doses it can overpower quieter colors.

Tints and shades of coral

Lighter tints are made by mixing with white and darker shades by mixing with black. Click a swatch to copy its HEX.

Coral color palettes

Complementary

Two colors opposite each other on the color wheel: the strongest contrast.

Analogous

Three neighbors on the wheel: a smooth, low-contrast scheme.

Triadic

Three colors evenly spaced around the wheel: lively but balanced.

Colors that go with coral

  • Turquoise (#06C2AC): The opposite on the wheel, so both colors look more vivid.
  • Navy Blue (#000080): A strong, traditional contrast.
  • Mint (#3EB489): A fresh, gentle pairing.
  • Cream (#FFFFC2): Softens coral and keeps it summery.

Similar named colors

Nectarine#FF8656
Bonfire#F78058
Mango Tango#FF8243
Precious Persimmon#FF7744
Melon#FF7855
Tiger of Mysore#FF8855

Where coral is used

  • Fashion. Coral is a favorite for lipstick, summer dresses and accessories because it flatters a wide range of skin tones. It pairs well with white, navy and denim.
  • Interiors. A coral cushion, vase or accent wall brightens a neutral room. Muted coral reads as softer and more modern than the vivid version.
  • Branding. Lifestyle, beverage, hospitality and consumer-app brands use coral for warmth with an energetic edge.

Coral vs salmon

Coral#FF7F50
Salmon#FF796C

Salmon is softer and more muted, with a touch more pink and gray. Coral is more saturated and orange-leaning.

If a color looks like a bright tropical sunset, call it coral. If it looks like a pale peach-pink, it is salmon.

Frequently asked questions

What color is coral?

A pinkish orange. It is warmer and brighter than pink and softer than red.

What two colors make coral?

Mix orange with pink, or red with yellow and white. Adjust the ratio for a pinker or more orange result.

Does coral suit most people?

It flatters a wide range of complexions, which is why it is popular for lipstick and blush.

What goes with coral?

Navy, turquoise, mint and cream are good partners.

Related