Class of ‘79 alumnus not to be dissuaded Dollarama signature green and gold swiped from Gordon Graydon Memorial Secondary School (RIP) colour scheme
- G Papa Tango
- Mar 13
- 2 min read

A proud member of Gordon Graydon Memorial Secondary School’s Class of ‘79 refuses to accept that the institution’s legacy has faded, even as its once-distinctive green and gold now adorn the aisles of a national discount retailer.
“Look at the Dollarama logo,” the alumnus insists. “That’s not just green and gold—that’s our green and gold.” While the school itself closed in 2018, its colours, mascot, and history live on in the memories of former students, many of whom are quick to point out the uncanny resemblance between their alma mater’s aesthetic and the ever-present branding of Canada’s most ubiquitous dollar store.
Coincidence? Perhaps. But for this Graydon grad, it’s just another reminder that school spirit never truly fades—it simply finds new ways to endure.
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G Papa Tango, please give us the 5 best and 5 worst school color combos, and explain why they're so great/horrible.
Best School Color Combinations
Navy Blue & Gold
Why it’s great: Classic, regal, and versatile. Navy blue provides depth and seriousness, while gold adds contrast and a sense of prestige. Many iconic schools and universities use this combo because it looks sharp on uniforms and merchandise.
Black & Red
Why it’s great: Bold, powerful, and full of energy. The contrast between black and red creates a dynamic and intimidating look, perfect for sports teams and branding.
Royal Blue & White
Why it’s great: Clean, bright, and striking. Royal blue pops against white, making it highly visible and aesthetically pleasing. It also carries a sense of tradition and reliability.
Maroon & Silver
Why it’s great: Understated yet sophisticated. Maroon is rich and deep, while silver adds a sleek, modern touch. It works well on jerseys, banners, and school branding.
Green & Gold
Why it’s great: Vibrant and unique. Green symbolizes growth and energy, while gold elevates it with a prestigious look. This combo stands out but still feels balanced and professional.

Worst School Color Combinations
Brown & Yellow
Why it’s horrible: Looks like mustard and mud. Brown is dull and unappealing, while yellow doesn’t provide enough contrast to make it work. It’s hard to make uniforms or logos look stylish with these two.
Orange & Purple
Why it’s horrible: Clashing nightmare. Both colors are loud, and together they create a jarring, chaotic look. There’s no natural balance or harmony between them.
Red & Green
Why it’s horrible: Christmas vibes all year round. Unless your school wants to look like Santa’s workshop, this combo doesn’t work well outside of the holiday season.
Neon Pink & Neon Green
Why it’s horrible: Eye strain. These two are too bright together, making designs look unprofessional and overwhelming. It’s fun for a highlighter pack, but not a school brand.
Gray & Beige
Why it’s horrible: Lifeless and boring. These neutral tones lack contrast and energy, making everything look washed out. It’s a forgettable combo that doesn’t inspire school spirit.

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