The official colors of the UNL (University of Nebraska–Lincoln) brand guide are scarlet and cream. These signature hues are fundamental to the university’s visual identity and are used consistently across all official communications and marketing materials to ensure brand recognition and unity.
Understanding the UNL Brand Colors: Scarlet and Cream
The University of Nebraska–Lincoln’s visual identity is strongly defined by its distinct color palette. The scarlet and cream are not just colors; they are symbols of the university’s heritage, spirit, and academic excellence. Using these colors correctly is crucial for maintaining a cohesive and recognizable brand presence.
The Significance of Scarlet
Scarlet, often referred to as UNL Scarlet, is the primary and most prominent color. It embodies the energy, passion, and dynamism of the university community. This rich, deep red is associated with the university’s athletic teams, the Cornhuskers, and is a powerful visual cue for anyone familiar with UNL.
When specifying UNL Scarlet for digital applications, the hex code is #A50021. For print materials, the CMYK values are 0, 100, 91, 17, and the Pantone color is 201 C. These precise specifications ensure that the scarlet appears consistently across all mediums, whether it’s on a website, a brochure, or a banner.
The Role of Cream
Cream serves as the secondary color and provides a sophisticated contrast to the vibrant scarlet. It offers a softer, more neutral foundation, allowing the scarlet to stand out effectively. This color evokes a sense of tradition and academic refinement, balancing the boldness of scarlet.
For digital use, the hex code for UNL Cream is #F5F5DC. In print, the CMYK values are 2, 5, 18, 0, and the Pantone color is 7402 C. The careful application of cream ensures that designs remain clean, professional, and aesthetically pleasing, enhancing the overall brand message.
Implementing UNL Brand Colors Effectively
Adhering to the UNL brand guide ensures that all communications reflect the university’s identity accurately. This involves understanding not only the primary colors but also how to use them in conjunction with other approved elements.
Primary and Secondary Color Usage
The scarlet is typically used for dominant elements, headlines, and calls to action. It grabs attention and conveys the university’s strong presence. Cream is often used as a background color, for supporting text, or as an accent to provide visual breathing room.
A common application involves using cream as the background for web pages or print documents, with scarlet used for the university logo, important headings, and key graphic elements. This creates a visually appealing hierarchy and ensures that the most critical information is easily identified.
Accent Colors and Typography
While scarlet and cream are the foundational colors, the UNL brand guide may also specify accent colors for specific uses, such as charts, graphs, or infographics. These accents are carefully chosen to complement scarlet and cream without overpowering them.
Typography also plays a vital role. The approved UNL fonts, such as Garamond and Open Sans, should be used consistently. When paired with the correct color palette, these fonts contribute to a professional and unified brand experience. For instance, using a dark gray or black for body text on a cream background is standard practice for readability.
Examples of UNL Brand Color Application
Observing how UNL uses its brand colors in practice can provide valuable insights. From the official university website to athletic merchandise, the consistent application of scarlet and cream is evident.
For instance, the UNL homepage prominently features scarlet in its header and key calls to action, while the majority of the content area utilizes a clean, light background, often a shade close to cream or white, for optimal readability. This strategic use of color guides the user’s eye and reinforces brand identity.
The athletic department, in particular, leans heavily on scarlet, especially for uniforms and fan merchandise, making it an instantly recognizable symbol of Nebraska pride. This demonstrates how the primary color can be used dynamically to evoke specific emotions and associations.
People Also Ask
What is the official logo of the University of Nebraska–Lincoln?
The official logo of the University of Nebraska–Lincoln is the block "N" with "Nebraska" written across it. This iconic logo is always rendered in the university’s official colors, scarlet and cream, or in monochrome variations when necessary.
Are there specific guidelines for using the UNL logo?
Yes, the UNL brand guide provides detailed instructions on logo usage. These guidelines cover aspects like minimum size, clear space around the logo, acceptable color variations, and prohibited alterations to ensure brand consistency and integrity.
Can I use any shade of red for UNL-related materials?
No, it is important to use only the official UNL Scarlet specified in the brand guide. Using a different shade of red can dilute brand recognition and appear unprofessional. Always refer to the official color specifications for accuracy.
What are the approved fonts for UNL branding?
The primary approved fonts for UNL branding are Garamond and Open Sans. Garamond is often used for more formal or traditional applications, while Open Sans is a versatile sans-serif font suitable for digital and print media, ensuring readability and a modern feel.
Conclusion: Maintaining Brand Integrity with Scarlet and Cream
The scarlet and cream are more than just colors; they are integral components of the University of Nebraska–Lincoln’s identity. By understanding and consistently applying these official brand colors, the university reinforces its message, builds recognition, and cultivates a strong sense of community and pride. Always refer to the official UNL Brand Guidelines for the most accurate and up-to-date information on color usage, logo application, and typography.
Consider exploring the UNL Brand Guidelines page on the university’s official website for a comprehensive overview and downloadable assets.
