Deep burgundy and maroon are two similar shades of red that often get confused with one another. Though they look alike, there are some key differences between these rich wine-colored hues. In this article, we’ll examine the definitions of deep burgundy and maroon, look at how they are used, compare their RGB values, and determine whether or not deep burgundy is the same as maroon.
Defining Deep Burgundy
Deep burgundy is a very deep, intense shade of red that has a slight purple tone to it. It’s darker and richer than basic burgundy. The deep burgundy color is bold, elegant, and sophisticated.
Some common places you’ll see deep burgundy used include wine bottles, formal wear like tuxedos, upholstery, carpeting, drapes, and car paint. It’s a popular color for fall and winter fashion. Deep burgundy can create an intimate, cozy feeling when used in interior design.
Defining Maroon
Maroon is also a dark, rich shade of red that has a brownish-purple tint to it. However, it is not quite as deep and vivid as deep burgundy. Maroon sits between red and burgundy on the color wheel. It is sometimes described as a “duller” or “bronzed” shade of burgundy.
Maroon is famously used as a school color for universities like the University of Chicago, MIT, and Harvard. It’s also the primary color of the Washington Football Team. Maroon appears in fall fashion, home goods, leather products, and food packaging. It is a traditional, masculine color that evokes a sense of strength and timelessness.
Deep Burgundy vs. Maroon Uses
While deep burgundy and maroon are often used interchangeably, there are some general differences in how the shades are applied:
– Deep burgundy tends to be used more often for formal wears, weddings, interior design, and wine colors. It comes across as more elegant and refined.
– Maroon leans more casual. It’s widely used for athletics and education. Maroon also appears in menswear and rural settings.
– Deep burgundy conveys richness, depth, luxury, and passion. Maroon is more rustic, traditional, and casual.
– Deep burgundy appears in dark, dramatic palettes. Maroon mixes well with tans, browns, and other earth tones.
So while the hues can substitute for one another, deep burgundy suits more formal, upscale settings, while maroon fits better in casual, outdoorsy color schemes.
Deep Burgundy vs. Maroon RGB Values
The hexadecimal RGB values provide another way to compare these colors digitally:
| Color | RGB |
| Deep Burgundy | #800020 |
| Maroon | #800000 |
As you can see, deep burgundy is made with more blue undertones, giving it that deeper, purplish look compared to maroon. The extra blue tones make it slightly cooler and darker than the more brick-colored maroon.
There is not a huge difference between the two shades. But side-by-side, deep burgundy has greater intensity, while maroon is softer and more brick-like.
Are Deep Burgundy and Maroon the Same?
Based on the analysis above, deep burgundy and maroon are very close shades but not precisely the same color. Here are some key points to summarize the comparison:
– Deep burgundy is darker, cooler, and more purple/blue-toned than maroon. Maroon has more red-brown undertones.
– Deep burgundy is considered more formal and elegant. Maroon leans casual and traditional.
– The RGB values are similar but not identical. Deep burgundy has a bit more blue added to the deep red.
– The colors can often substitute for one another as a deep, dark red. But side-by-side, deep burgundy has a richer, more sophisticated look over the more burnt, earthy maroon.
So while deep burgundy and maroon are closely related, they are distinct shades with slightly different undertones and uses. Deep burgundy is not technically the same exact color as maroon. But it is reasonable to categorize both as being deep, dark reds.
Quick Ways to Tell Deep Burgundy and Maroon Apart
Because these hues are so close, here are some quick tips for telling deep burgundy and maroon apart:
– Deep burgundy has a touch of purple – Maroon leans brown
– Deep burgundy is cooler and darker – Maroon is softer and more brick-colored
– Deep burgundy is more blue-toned – Maroon is more red/brown-toned
– Deep burgundy is formal – Maroon is casual
– Deep burgundy feels richer and deeper – Maroon is more burnt and earthy
Once you train your eye to spot these subtle differences, it becomes easier to distinguish these sophisticated wine hues.
Using Deep Burgundy vs. Maroon
Here’s a quick overview of how best to use deep burgundy vs. maroon:
– Deep burgundy excels in formal settings like black tie events, weddings, wine palettes, velvet furniture, drapes, and bedrooms. It conveys elegance and luxury.
– Maroon fits better in casual, masculine settings like academia, sports, autumn landscapes, leather goods, and earth-toned designs. It gives a traditional, rustic vibe.
– Both work well in fall and winter color schemes and can create an intimate feel.
– Neither color is great for young children’s rooms or upbeat corporate branding where bright colors are preferred.
– Large splashes of deep burgundy or maroon can feel overwhelming, so use sparingly or mix with lighter tones.
So in summary, deep burgundy suits formal elegance, while maroon conveys casual masculinity and tradition. But both hues work beautifully in the right settings.
Conclusion
Deep burgundy and maroon are two of the most regal shades of deep red that you will come across. At first glance, they appear almost identical. But upon closer inspection, deep burgundy contains more cool blue undertones compared to the brick-like warmth of maroon. Deep burgundy is darker and richer, befitting of its elegant reputation. Maroon has more red-brown earthiness, making it feel more rustic and traditional. While the two colors are not exactly the same, they are close enough to be interchangeable in many design cases where a sophisticated true red is needed. Just remember that deep burgundy has a touch of refinement, while maroon errs on the casual masculine side. So consider the vibe you want when choosing between these commanding wine-inspired hues.
