Burgundy and Gold
A century of tradition woven in burgundy threads and golden glory.
Burgundy and Gold are the iconic colors of the Washington Commanders, representing one of the most storied franchises in professional American football history. Adopted early in the team's existence as the Washington Redskins (now Commanders), these hues have become synonymous with the club's identity, appearing on helmets, jerseys, and fan apparel for nearly a century. The combination serves not just as a visual trademark but as a unifying symbol of tradition, connecting generations of players, coaches, and supporters through decades of triumphs and challenges. The colors play a central role in the team's culture, instantly recognizable across the gridiron landscape. From the gleaming burgundy helmets that have housed legendary quarterbacks to the gold stripes adorning the shoulders of Super Bowl champions, these shades define the visual language of the franchise. They evoke a sense of prestige and history, anchoring the team's narrative within the broader tapestry of NFL heritage while maintaining a distinct aesthetic that separates them from their rivals.
- primary_colors
- Burgundy and Gold
- secondary_color
- White
- first_appearance_era
- 1930s (as Boston Redskins/Washington Redskins)
- symbolism
- Tradition, Prestige, and Heritage
- notable_equipment
- Burgundy helmets with gold decals
- fan_nickname_association
- The 'Redskins' era legacy to the current Commanders identity
Lore & Background
The selection of burgundy and gold was not merely aesthetic but a deliberate choice to project an image of royalty and excellence from the franchise's inception. When George Preston Marshall founded the team, he sought colors that commanded respect on the field. The deep burgundy suggested power and determination, while the gold represented victory and high achievement. This palette quickly became ingrained in the fabric of Washington sports culture, surviving name changes, stadium moves, and coaching eras to remain a constant beacon for fans. Throughout history, these colors have been worn by some of the greatest talents in NFL history. From the legendary running back Sammy Baugh's era to the dominance of Joe Gibbs' Super Bowl-winning teams in the 1980s and early 90s, burgundy and gold were the backdrop for unforgettable moments. The colors are particularly associated with the 'Hail Mary' play and the defensive prowess of the 'Skins' defense. Even as the franchise navigates modern changes to its identity, the core visual elements remain a tribute to this enduring legacy, ensuring that the spirit of the past lives on in every game played.
In Their Own Story
The sun dipped below the horizon at FedExField, casting long shadows across the gridiron where the air grew crisp. A veteran player adjusted his burgundy helmet, the gold decal catching the last rays of light like a beacon. The crowd roared, a sea of red and gold stretching into the stands, their voices merging with the thud of pads and the snap of the ball. In that moment, the weight of history felt tangible; every cheer echoed the triumphs of decades past, binding the present struggle to a legacy written in burgundy and gold.
Reader's Guide
Attending a Commanders game is an immersion into a unique blend of Southern hospitality and intense gridiron tradition. The stadium atmosphere transforms when the team takes the field in their signature burgundy jerseys, creating a visual spectacle that unites diverse fans under one banner. Fans often engage in pre-game rituals involving the display of vintage memorabilia, celebrating the lineage of greats who wore these colors before them. Tailgating areas become vibrant zones where generations gather, passing down stories of Super Bowl victories and legendary plays while clad in team gear. The city culture deeply influences the experience, with Washington D.C.'s political backdrop adding a layer of gravity to every home game. The colors serve as a neutral ground where supporters from all walks of life come together, united by a shared passion for the franchise's storied past and hopeful future.
Did You Know?
- The burgundy color used by the team was originally selected in the 1930s to distinguish the franchise visually on early black-and-white telecasts.
- Gold has been a consistent accent color throughout the team's history, appearing on helmets and uniforms across multiple decades of name changes.
- The combination of burgundy and gold is one of the few color schemes in the NFL that has remained largely unchanged since the franchise's founding era.
- Legendary coach Joe Gibbs famously wore a burgundy suit during his Super Bowl victories, cementing the colors as symbols of championship success.