Secondary Colour Palette
The secondary palette supports the primary palette and adds flexibility across a wider range of communications. It is best used for graphics, charts, diagrams, iconography, and selected backgrounds where colour is needed to support content. These colours should complement the primary palette and should not dominate primary brand expression.
NOTE: Metallic gold and silver are reserved for ceremonial or decorative use only. They are not part of the standard working palette and should be specified with care for print production on suitable stock where a premium finish is required.
Tints
Tints may be used to introduce tonal variation into layouts. They work best when paired with their corresponding full colour, or as light background tones that create visual hierarchy. Tints should not be used for text, buttons, or interactive elements where WCAG AA contrast compliance is required — always use the full colour values in those contexts.
Accessibility
Colour must always support clarity and legibility for all users. WCAG AA compliance is a minimum standard that applies across all communications, not only where accessibility is specifically flagged.
For normal text, a minimum contrast ratio of 4.5:1 must be maintained against the background. For large text (18pt or above, or 14pt bold and above), a minimum of 3:1 applies. The same 3:1 ratio is required for non-text elements such as buttons, icons, and interface borders.
Stronger contrast is always encouraged. The approved colour combinations shown here meet these requirements and should be used as the default starting point for all design decisions.
Trinity Marketing manages the implementation and development of the university's visual identity. Please contact Trinity.Marketing@tcd.ie should you have any queries.