The color burgundy is a deep reddish purple that takes its name from the Burgundy wine region in France. While it may appear more red or more purple depending on lighting and context, burgundy sits somewhere between the two hues on the color wheel. The exact definition of burgundy is a rich reddish-purple color that is created by mixing red and purple pigments together. So while burgundy contains both red and purple tones, it is generally considered its own distinct shade.
The History and Origins of Burgundy
The name burgundy traces back to the Burgundy region of eastern France, which was named for the ancient Germanic tribe of Burgundians. In the Middle Ages, the Duke of Burgundy ruled a large area of France, Flanders, and the Low Countries. The dukes, nobility, and wealthy merchants in Burgundy were influential trendsetters in medieval fashion and taste. Burgundy red wine from the region became associated with the upper classes. By the 15th century, “burgundy” had become a synonym for the prestigious, deep red wines produced in the Burgundy region.
By the 1660s, burgundy had become established as a color term referring to deep purplish reds, taking its name from the Burgundy wines. In1696, the English philosopher John Locke wrote in a journal about seeing a “burgundy-colored mantle” at a church service. By the 18th century, burgundy was being used regularly to describe fabrics and clothing, typically referring to rich, regal shades of reddish purple.
How Burgundy Sits Between Red and Purple
Burgundy contains strong elements of both red and purple. On the color wheel, it sits between violet and crimson. Looking at the technical RGB and CMYK color mixes can help define burgundy’s place between red and purple:
| RGB: | 128, 0 ,32 |
| CMYK: | 30, 100, 74, 50 |
The strong red comes from a heavy amount of the red RGB channel mixed with a little blue. There is no green, which gives burgundy a richer, darker look than basic red. The high amounts of magenta and deep blue in the CMYK mix account for burgundy’s purple tones. By mixing a vivid crimson red with a deep purple, burgundy strikes the perfect balance between the two hues.
Comparing Burgundy to Different Shades of Red and Purple
Placing burgundy on the color wheel reveals how it relates to shades of red, purple, and pink:
– Red – Burgundy contains a strong red base but is darker and richer than primary red. Scarlet and crimson are the reds closest to burgundy.
– Purple – On the other side, burgundy is more vibrant and intense than basic purple. It sits between purple and violet.
– Pink – Burgundy has some similarity to deep pinks like magenta and raspberry, but with much less white added to the mix.
– Maroon – Burgundy is often confused with maroon. While quite close, maroon generally has a slightly more reddish look.
– Mauve – Mauve is a pale purple that is much lighter and grayer than the deep burgundy.
– Bordeaux – In a wine context, Burgundy and Bordeaux wines represent different grapes and regions. The burgundy color is generally darker than Bordeaux’s deep red.
So while burgundy is certainly a deep shade of red, it contains enough blue and purple tones to distinguish it from plain red and give it a more reddish-purple character.
Burgundy vs. Eggplant and Plum
Eggplant and plum purple are two other shades that come close to burgundy but have a few key differences.
Eggplant purple has a very similar deep purple-red look. But eggplant generally skews a bit more toward the purple side, with a cooler, slightly grayer tone compared to burgundy’s warm, wine-inspired vibe.
Plum purple is also close but a bit lighter and redder than classic burgundy. Plum takes its name from the fruit, which has a distinctly reddish purple flesh. So plum purple tends to be a lighter, somewhat pinkish and soft purple tone. Burgundy is darker and more bold.
How Lighting Affects Burgundy’s Appearance
The way burgundy can shift between a red and purple look depending on context comes down to how different lighting interacts with its blend of pigments.
In bright white light, burgundy generally appears more purple, as the red wavelengths are overwhelmed by the broad light spectrum. In candlelight and other warm, yellow light, the red wavelengths in burgundy are emphasized, making it look more reddish and russet toned.
This chameleon-like color shift can also happen depending on what colors are surrounding the burgundy item. Placed next to cool blues and greens, burgundy appears much redder in contrast. Surrounded by warm peachy and yellow tones, the purple in burgundy comes out more.
So burgundy can take on red or purple personalities while fundamentally remaining a blend of the two.
Cultural and Historical Associations with Burgundy
Throughout history, burgundy has developed many cultural connections thanks to its regal pedigree. Here are some of the most significant associations:
– Aristocracy – For centuries, deep burgundy colors were embraced by European nobility and royalty, from the Burgundy dukes to the British monarchy. The color still conveys luxury.
– Catholic Church – Clerical robes and interiors were often done in rich burgundy hues during the Middle Ages and Renaissance. Cardinal red is a bright, modern version.
– Fashion – Burgundy remains a staple in fashion. Deep burgundy lipstick is classic. Burgundy shoes, handbags, dresses, and more add rich elegance.
– Wine – Of course, burgundy is famous as the deep red wine from the Burgundy region made from Pinot Noir grapes.
– Vampires – Blood red meets purple? Vampire movies and gothic tales often visualize blood and wine in deep burgundy hues.
– Washington Redskins – Burgundy and gold team colors reflect the elite, regal associations of the shade.
So while primary reds represent excitement, passion, and energy, burgundy’s purple undertones give it an extra air of luxury, prestige, and gravitas.
Burgundy in Design and Decor
In interior design, fabric, paint, and decor in burgundy can provide a striking visual accent. Its dramatic personality needs to be balanced with more neutral tones. But used well, burgundy makes a bold design statement.
– Paint – Deeper than red, less intense than purple, burgundy paint adds a sophisticated touch, especially with gold accents. Works great in dining rooms.
– Furniture – A burgundy sofa, lounge chair, or sofa injects rich, elegant color into a room. Pair with creams and golds.
– Decor – Pillows, rugs, throws, curtains, and wall art in burgundy combinations create luxe depth.
– Tablescapes – From chargers to napkins to flowers, burgundy dinner party decor exudes elegance.
– Bedding – Layer plush burgundy sheets, pillows, coverlets for cozy, upscale bedroom style.
– Offices – A burgundy desk, chair, or reading chair makes a professional statement.
From dramatic and romantic to classic and professional, burgundy offers decorators a deep, reddish-purple paintbox for creating cultured, upmarket rooms.
Conclusion
While burgundy sits snugly between red and purple hues, it has developed its own distinct identity as a deep reddish purple. Its flattering combination of bold red warmth and cool blue undertones creates a rich, multidimensional color that flatters many complexions. Burgundy’s association with nobility, luxury, and fine wine make it an ideal color for creating an atmosphere of elegance. On its own or combined with creams, golds, taupes, and chocolates, burgundy makes a sophisticated statement in fashion, decor, and beyond. So the next time you see that reddish wine color, you can confidently call it burgundy.
