Pink #FFC0CB

Pink is usually read as gentle, affectionate and playful. It takes the warmth of red and softens it, so it feels caring instead of urgent. Tenderness, romance and sweetness are the most common associations.

Its link to girls is more recent than many people assume. In the United States, the convention of pink for girls and blue for boys became firmly established around the middle of the twentieth century. Brands have since used pink both to market to women and, more recently, to play with or push back on that idea.

In Japan, pink is closely tied to cherry blossoms and spring. The pink ribbon is now a widely recognized symbol of breast cancer awareness. Other meanings vary by country, so check local associations before using pink in international work.

Pale pink #FFC0CB works well as a background or section color for beauty, wellness, bakeries, kids' products and fashion. Text on it needs to be dark: black, charcoal or deep burgundy read clearly, and white text almost disappears. Use it for cards, highlights and social post backgrounds, and keep it away from text and thin icons.

In interiors, soft pink walls look warmer in rooms with natural light, and pink pairs well with green plants, brass and wood. Pale pink shirts and suits are also a common way to add color to menswear.