Cardinal red (#C41E3A) is a bold, vibrant shade that perfectly balances passion and sophistication. Named after the distinctive plumage of the cardinal bird, this rich red sits beautifully between pure red and deeper burgundy on the color wheel.

This striking hue commands attention while maintaining elegance, making it ideal for brands wanting to convey confidence and energy. Its RGB values (196, 30, 58) create a warm yet intense presence that works exceptionally well in digital designs, from call-to-action buttons to logo accents.

Cardinal red pairs beautifully with neutral tones like charcoal for sophisticated contrast, or with gold for luxurious appeal. For complementary schemes, consider pairing it with cool turquoise or softening its intensity with cream or soft pink.

Avoid pairing cardinal red with highly saturated colors like neon pink or bright yellow, as these combinations can create visual discord and overwhelm viewers.

Whether used as a primary brand color or accent, cardinal red delivers timeless appeal with modern versatility.