Chili red (#CD1C18) is a bold, warm hue that commands attention and stimulates the senses. Named after the fiery peppers that originated in South America, this vibrant color brings instant energy and passion to any design.

This powerful shade excels in user interface design, particularly for call-to-action buttons and urgent notifications. Food brands like DoorDash and McDonald's leverage chili red's appetite-stimulating properties, making it perfect for restaurant apps and food delivery platforms. The color's intensity makes it ideal for highlighting important information and creating a sense of urgency that drives user action.

When pairing chili red, consider complementary colors that balance its intensity. Yellow-orange creates a vibrant, fiery palette, while beige provides a neutral backdrop that allows chili red to shine. For a softer approach, light blue can calm the color's boldness, and soft pink adds a playful touch.

Avoid pairing chili red with colors that compete for attention, such as magenta or cyan, which can create visual tension. Similarly, combining it with bright red may lack the necessary contrast for effective design.

Culturally, chili red symbolizes protection, energy, and good fortune. In color psychology, it evokes excitement and passion while also conveying warnings—much like the heat sensation of touching your tongue to a hot pepper. Use chili red strategically to create memorable, energetic designs that capture attention and inspire action.