This blog gives an analysis of the Burberry check colour scheme, focusing on its hues, values and chroma.
The black white and red pattern, known as Haymarket check or the Burberry Classic check was created in the 1920s and was first used as a lining. In the 1960s it became a registered trademark and is now an iconic feature of Burberry.
The Burberry check is inspired by the traditional Scottish tartan check which commonly uses basic primary and secondary hues such as red, yellow green and blue with high chroma and value. Tartan normally has a strong contrast between aggressive and receding colours which gives impact to the eye. The example below has a variety of shades of blue and navy, which creates harmony and makes the contrast in colours subtle.
The Burberry check uses a blend of two different colour theories: the Complimentary Colour Scheme Theory and The Achromatic theory. The Complimentary Colour Scheme Theory relates to the two hues opposite each other on the colour wheel, the deep red shade and the beige tint. When combined, the two colours are intensified. The Achromatic theory relates to the colourless scheme of blacks, whites and greys. The transparency of the black in the check creates grey tones. Black, grey and white can be included in a colour scheme without distorting its formula because they are true neutrals. This is called monochromatic, even though no hue is involved, both the black and the white make striking accents and compliment the red well, bringing about balance and harmony.
The colour scheme is sophisticated and muted. The low value tints of brown/beige as a base and shades of black and red. The red hue is not very vivid, therefore has low chroma. This gives the pattern a luxurious and warm feel. The achromatic scheme consisting of dominant black shades and white tints combined with the low chroma of red, creates a strong contrast.
From understanding the composition of the Burberry Check Colour Scheme, the theories can be applied to create other colour schemes. Below are variations of the Burberry check, with altered hues, chromas and values:
Thefollowing colour schemes are mono-chromatic, using only one hue, but differing shades and tints.
This colour scheme has a blue hue with a contrasting tints of black and a mid saturation with a high chroma and high value
This example has high value and constant chroma. The predominant hue is a tertiary colour: yellow-green
This example uses the same hues as the original sample but with much lower value and chroma. The colours are therefore very dull with shades of grey.
This example has a red hue with a medium chroma, low value and high saturation
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