Skip to Content

Weather Update: UofSC Columbia campus to close Friday, Jan. 21 due to inclement weather. See sc.edu/weather for updates.

Communications and Public Affairs

Using Color

The primary and accent color palettes can work together to add layers of subtle meaning to design through the strategic use of color and color combinations. 

Color Combinations

The following examples illustrate how color combinations can be used successfully. Each set is different, and each is appropriate for different contexts. The primary colors should always remain predominant in design, with limited use of accent colors for emphasis.

  • all uses color pallet: garnet, black and white

    All Uses

  • color pallet: garnet, black and white

    Formal

  • color pallet: garnet, rose, and black

    Vibrant

  • color pallet: garnet, white, atlantic, congaree and gibbes,

    Optimistic

  • color pallet: garnet, white, sand, and black

    Trustworthy

  • color pallet: garnet, white, sunshine and congaree

    Welcoming

  • color pallet: shades of garnet

    Confident

  • color pallet: garnet, white, grey and black

    Committed


Accessible Color Choices

Any color combination you use with text must meet minimum contrast standards. Follow the university's color usage guidelines to ensure sufficient color contrast between your text and background.

Challenge the conventional. Create the exceptional. No Limits.

©