Colors You Can't Use
The Story Behind Trademarked Shades

Some colors are so closely tied to a brand’s identity, they’ve been legally locked down. You can wear them, paint your walls with them—but in certain industries, you can’t use them commercially without a legal headache.
Here are some of the most famously trademarked shades:
Tiffany Blue® – This robin’s egg blue is more than a color—it’s a brand. Trademarked by Tiffany & Co. and registered as Pantone 1837 (the year the company was founded), it’s legally protected for jewelry packaging and promotional use.
Hermès Orange – Wartime shortages led Hermès to switch to orange boxes. The look caught on. Today, the vibrant shade is a trademarked symbol of French luxury—and it’s off-limits for rival packaging.
Louboutin Red – The bold red soles of Christian Louboutin’s high heels are trademarked - but only when paired with an otherwise contrasting shoe. It’s not the red that’s protected - it’s the combination.
UPS Brown – Officially Pantone 462C, this shade is tied so strongly to the United Parcel Service that it’s trademarked for delivery services. “What can Brown do for you?” Quite a bit, legally speaking.
Barbie Pink – Mattel trademarked its signature pink in the world of toys, dolls, and related merchandise. The exact shade evokes a very specific universe of bubblegum, plastic, and brand recognition.
T-Mobile Magenta – Known for fiercely defending its magenta, T-Mobile owns the rights to this bright pink hue in telecom and tech branding. Companies have been sued over even similar shades.
John Deere Green & Yellow – It’s not just the green or yellow—it’s the combo that’s protected. If your tractor looks too much like John Deere’s, you may get a cease-and-desist instead of a harvest.
Wiffle Ball Yellow – The bright yellow Wiffle Ball bat isn’t just nostalgic—it’s trademarked. That pop of color is part of the brand’s identity on playgrounds and in backyards.

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