The Mayans used color exhaustively. That is to say, color was used as a form of expression, not just an adornment. Colors express emotions, convey meaning, and even to represent the directions of the winds.

Huipil designs incorporate symbolic elements rooted in Mayan culture, such as round geometric patterns representing celestial bodies or scenes from the sacred Popol Vuh. These symbols convey rich narratives, mirroring the allegorical themes found in Western artworks. In Renaissance art, for example, paintings like Botticelli's "The Birth of Venus'' and da Vinci's "The Last Supper" utilize allegory and narratives to convey complex ideas and moral lessons. Employing symbolism transcends mere aesthetic beauty to convey profound insights into their culture.