Beige and khaki are two similar neutral earth tones that are often used interchangeably. However, while beige and khaki may look alike at first glance, they are actually distinct shades with some key differences.
Defining Beige
Beige is a pale, light brown color that has a slightly yellowish or tan tint. The word “beige” comes from the French word for the color of undyed wool. As a result, beige is sometimes described as having a “natural” look.
Beige is created by mixing white with brown shades like tan, taupe, or light brown. By adjusting the brown tone, beige can take on warmer peachy undertones or cooler grayish undertones. This allows for many varieties of beige, from pale sand to darker tan.
In addition to wool, beige is commonly used to describe the color of fabrics like cotton, silk, and cashmere. It’s also found across home furnishings from paints to furniture upholstery.
Defining Khaki
Khaki is also a light brownish-beige color, but it is more yellow-toned than true beige. The name “khaki” comes from the Hindustani word “khak,” meaning “dust” or “earth.”
Khaki was first developed in the mid-1800s for British colonial uniforms in India. The light tan shade helped camouflage soldiers against the dusty landscape. It became popular for military uniforms and eventually expanded into casual wear.
Today, khaki continues to have strong associations with outdoorsy and utilitarian clothing. It’s a go-to color for pants, shorts, and jackets. Khaki also appears in shoes, bags, and accessories.
Comparing Beige and Khaki
While both fall under the neutral palette, beige and khaki have some distinct differences:
| Beige | Khaki |
|---|---|
| Slightly lighter and softer | Slightly darker and warmer |
| Subtle cool undertones | Visible yellow undertones |
| Associated with cashmere, silk | Associated with cotton, linen |
| Painterly, elegant | Outdoorsy, casual |
While they sit side-by-side on the color spectrum, beige has a bit more flexibility to go lighter, while khaki remains in the light-medium range. Beige also veers cooler, while khaki runs warm.
Beige vs Khaki in Fashion
In fashion and apparel, beige and khaki take on slightly different roles:
- Beige is seen in more delicate and formal fabrics like cashmere, silk, linen, or wool. It conveys understated elegance and works for day or nightwear.
- Khaki has greater utility associations through its military roots. It’s most common in casual fabrics like cotton, denim, or twill for pants, shirts, jackets, and accessories.
Some examples of beige and khaki clothing include:
| Beige | Khaki |
|---|---|
| Cashmere sweater | Cotton field jacket |
| Silk blouse | Chino shorts |
| Wool trousers | Denim utility shirt |
| Linen dress | Twill cargo pants |
Beige vs Khaki for Home Decor
For home furnishings and decor, beige and khaki take on these roles:
- Beige reads as more neutral and versatile. It blends into backgrounds easily as a wall color or soft furnishing.
- Khaki makes more of a statement with its earthy military undertones. It can create a masculine cottage or rustic aesthetic.
Some examples include:
| Beige | Khaki |
|---|---|
| Sofa | Accent chair |
| Area rug | Pillows |
| Wall paint | Kitchen cabinets |
| Sheer curtains | Outdoor patio set |
Conclusion
While the terms are sometimes used interchangeably, beige and khaki are distinct shades of light brown. Beige is softer and cooler-toned, evoking elegance and versatility. Khaki is warmer with prominent yellow undertones and feels more casual and rustic.
In both fashion and interior design, beige recedes into the background more easily as a neutral, while khaki makes more of a statement. But both beige and khaki remain timeless, light-neutral color options.
Takeaways
- Beige is a soft, cool-undertoned light brown that can appear in peachy or grayish shades.
- Khaki is a warmer light brown with obvious yellow tones from its “dust” origins.
- Beige is associated with delicate fabrics and versatility, while khaki skews casual and utilitarian.
- For decor, beige blends in neutrally and khaki makes an earthy statement.
- While sometimes interchangeable, beige and khaki have distinct identities.
