What is a Hex Code & Why Do I Need One for My Brand?

Updated: Dec 29, 2021

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So you find a brand you're interested in learning more about. You start to check all of their social media channels, their website, etc., and all of their posts, flyers, materials all have different colors on them! Or, they have similar colors that don't match!

Consistency across all of your business' channels subconsciously tells your potential audience that they can know what to expect with your brand and that you know what you're doing! So how can you make sure all of your brand colors are the same no matter what platform you use? Here we explain what a hex code is, and why it's necessary for your business!

1. What Is a Hex Code?

Basically, a Hex Code is a number that identifies unique colors. They include not only the basic colors of the rainbow but millions more. A hex code starts with "#" and is followed by a series of 6 letters and/or numbers. This makes sure that the colors are exact across all platforms. But how does this benefit your business?

2. How Important is a Hex Code?

Next time you go to a family gathering, try this experiment. Point to an object in the room and ask everyone what color they think it is. Let's say it's a blue vase. Count how many different answers you get. Some people will just say blue, others will say periwinkle, some might say dark blue, light blue, but most likely, you won't get the same answer. It would be the same if you had to explain this color to a graphic designer.

By having a universal digital code, everyone will know which color you specifically are talking about. But if you just say I want a blue poster, that could mean different things to different people. This is where that consistency comes in. By using a hex code, you will not confuse anyone on which color you need (which helps if you spend money on a service).

3. How Do You Find Your Hex Codes?

Finding what your hex codes are is actually really simple and we have a few tools for you to use and get them easily and on-demand. First, if you had someone design your brand materials, you can simply ask them for the hex codes! Most designers would probably give them to you, but if for some reason they don't, no worries! We have some tools that you can try if they won't give them up, or if you want to try creating your brand design on your own.

Coolors.co: This is a great tool for selecting colors to use in your brand. You start the generator and press the space bar until you find colors that work well together. AND they provide you with the hex codes for your favorite shades 😎

Google Eye Dropper Tool: This is a chrome extension for you Google users out there. This tool is always in the top bar of your browser and you can use it to select colors and get hex code information for just about every webpage on the internet! So if you find a shade you like, just click the eyedropper and hover over the color, and click to save! It will also give you the hex code so you keep it.

Pro Tip: In order to keep all of your brand/style information in one place for ease of access and distribution, it would be best to invest in a Style Guide or Full Brand Identity Book for your brand.