Getting the perfect burnt orange color can be tricky, but with the right techniques and products it is achievable. Burnt orange is a mix between orange and brown that has a rustic, earthy feel to it. The muted tone evokes images of autumn leaves, pumpkins, and cozy cabins. In this article, we will explore everything you need to know to get that ideal burnt orange color for any project.
What is Burnt Orange?
Burnt orange is a warm, reddish-brown color that sits between regular orange and brown on the color wheel. It’s not as bright as regular orange, but not as dark as brown. The tones are muted and softened, creating a warmer, cozier look compared to regular oranges.
The name comes from the color’s resemblance to the outer skin of an overripe or burnt orange fruit. But unlike an actual burnt orange, the color burnt orange is rich, inviting, and natural looking rather than unappealing.
Burnt orange has red undertones but they are subtle, giving the color depth without being overly vibrant. This makes burnt orange both energetic yet grounded at the same time.
Characteristics of Burnt Orange
Here are some key characteristics of the burnt orange color:
- Earthy, rustic, and natural
- Muted and softened reddish undertones
- Warmer and more inviting than bright orange
- Similar to terra cotta, pumpkin, or a mix of orange and brown
- Evokes images of fall leaves, pumpkins, sunsets
Unlike bright, citrusy orange, burnt orange is mellower in both tone and vibrancy. But it still packs more personality and warmth than basic brown. This blend of qualities makes burnt orange a versatile and cozy color perfect for autumnal themes.
Uses for Burnt Orange
Here are some popular ways to utilize burnt orange colors:
- Interior design – Walls, furniture, rugs, curtains, pillows
- Fashion and apparel – Jackets, shoes, scarves, dresses
- Crafting – Wreaths, candles, pottery, baked goods
- Graphic design – Website themes, branding, logos, invitations
- Nail art – On fingers and toes
- Cosmetics – Eyeshadow, blush, lipstick
- Hair coloring
Burnt orange works perfectly for creating cozy, inviting autumnal themes. Its earthy qualities make it ideal for nature-inspired designs. But burnt orange also has enough vibrancy to add energy and flair. Overall, burnt orange is a versatile color that suits a wide range of applications.
How to Make Burnt Orange Paint
It’s easy to mix up a burnt orange paint color at home with a few basic supplies:
Supplies Needed
- Orange paint – Any shade will work as a base
- Brown paint – Darker is better to mute the orange
- White paint – To lighten as needed
- Mixing container – Like a paint tray or disposable cup
- Stir stick – Popsicle stick, paint stirrer, etc.
Instructions
- Start with a 2:1 ratio of orange to brown paint. For example, mix 2 parts orange paint to 1 part brown.
- Add more brown paint in small amounts until you achieve a muted, burnt look.
- If the color becomes too dark, add small amounts of white paint to lighten it back up.
- Test your mixed paint on sample boards or paper until you achieve your desired burnt orange.
- Adjust the amounts of orange, brown, and white as needed to get the exact burnt orange tone you want.
It may take some trial and error to find your perfect burnt orange shade. But you can reuse and remix paints until you nail down the color.
How to Dye Fabric Burnt Orange
Dyeing fabric orange is an easy DIY project that opens up options for clothing, decorative textiles, and crafting. Here is a simple method using RIT all-purpose dye:
Supplies Needed
- 1 package RIT orange dye
- 1 package RIT brown dye
- Large pot for dye bath
- Wooden spoon for stirring
- Rubber gloves
- Fabric for dyeing like cotton, linen, rayon, silk
Instructions
- Fill dye pot with enough hot water to fully submerge fabric.
- Add 1 package orange dye and stir to dissolve completely.
- Add 1/2 package brown dye and stir.
- Submerge fabric in dye bath, stirring occasionally for even coverage.
- Simmer for 30 minutes, adding more brown dye if deeper color is desired.
- Remove dyed fabric and rinse thoroughly in cool water.
- Wash fabric with mild detergent and air dry.
The orange and brown dyes will mix together to produce a rich burnt orange color. For more vibrant results, opt for stronger dye concentrations or synthetics like polyester.
Buy Burnt Orange Clothing and Accessories
One of the easiest ways to incorporate burnt orange into your wardrobe or home decor is to simply purchase items in that color. Many retailers offer apparel, shoes, handbags, and home accessories in beautiful burnt orange tones. Here are some places to shop:
| Store | Burnt Orange Products |
|---|---|
| H&M | Sweaters, dresses, shirts, jackets, pants, hats, bags |
| J.Crew | Cashmere sweaters, jeans, tees, shorts, swimwear |
| Madewell | Denim, tees, shoes, handbags, jewelry |
| Anthropologie | Dresses, jumpsuits, kimonos, shoes, home decor |
| Target | Tops, pants, dresses, handbags, curtains, rugs |
Online sites like Etsy are also great for finding unique burnt orange clothing, jewelry, craft supplies and more. The advantage of shopping for the color is you don’t have to mix or guess – you can get perfectly styled burnt orange pieces.
How to Choose Burnt Orange Makeup
For a sun-kissed autumnal glow, burnt orange is a gorgeous color for eyeshadow, blush, and lipstick. Here are tips for selecting flattering burnt orange cosmetics:
- Eyeshadow – Matte burnt orange shadow flatters brown and hazel eyes. Shimmery copper orange looks beautiful on blue and green eyes. Apply to lids with a brush.
- Blush – Cream or powder blush in a muted burnt orange with a subtle sheen gives cheeks a lively flush. Smile and sweep across cheekbones.
- Lipstick – Cream lipstick with warm, rustic burnt orange tones complements olive and medium complexions. Line lips first for crisp edges.
- Nails – Burnt orange nail polish adds perfect fall flair to fingers and toes. Try a muted creme polish or one with subtle shimmer.
When applying burnt orange makeup, use a light hand so the color enhances your features instead of overpowering. Build up intensity gradually for a natural sun-kissed glow.
How to Dye Your Hair Burnt Orange
For a dramatic and vibrant new look, burnt orange hair color is a fun option. Here are some tips for achieving the burnt orange hair of your dreams:
- Get a professional dye job for the most even results and to minimize damage.
- Pick a semi-permanent or demi-permanent burnt orange hair dye for color that gradually washes out.
- Use protein treatments before and after dyeing to keep hair strong.
- Enhance vibrancy with burnt orange gloss treatments.
- Counter brassiness with purple shampoo and toning masks.
- Boost shine with nourishing hair masks and oils.
Burnt orange looks best on light to medium blonde hair. Those with naturally dark hair may need to pre-lighten for the color to show up properly. Maintenance is required as the vivid hue will fade. But burnt orange hair makes a fun statement for fall!
Conclusion
Achieving that perfect burnt orange color may require some trial and error. But the beauty of burnt orange makes the effort worthwhile. With the right mix of orange and brown paint or dye, you can easily DIY burnt orange products. Or opt for the instant gratification of shopping for burnt orange clothing, makeup and accessories. However you choose to incorporate it, burnt orange adds cozy elegance and energy to any autumn wardrobe or decor.
