Forest green and hunter green are two dark green shades that are often considered very similar. However, there are some key differences between these two green colors that set them apart.
Defining Forest Green
Forest green refers to a very deep, rich shade of green. It is one of the darkest greens available and has a cool, blueish undertone to it. Forest green gets its name from the deep green color found in forests and nature. It is the typical color of pine trees, ferns, and other lush plant life.
In color theory, forest green sits between the green and blue/cyan parts of the color wheel. It has strong associations with nature, growth, renewal, and the environment. Forest green is believed to promote feelings of calmness, focus, and stillness.
The exact specifications for forest green can vary slightly across different formats. In the RYB color model, forest green contains a high percentage of yellow and blue with very little red. In the CMYK color system used for print, forest green is made up of about 80% cyan, 40% yellow, 80% black, and 20% magenta.
As a web color, forest green is defined as HEX code #228B22. This means it is made of 34% red, 139% green, and 34% blue. When converted to RGB values, forest green is RGB(34,139,34).
Defining Hunter Green
Like forest green, hunter green is a very deep, rich shade of green. However, it is slightly brighter and has more yellow/olive undertones compared to the bluer forest green. Hunter green was first formulated as a color for hunters to wear in forests and fields.
Hunter green sits between green and olive on the color wheel. It was originally created by mixing chrome yellow and Prussian blue, so it has strong yellow and blue characteristics. Hunter green is associated with the military, masculinity, and Fall seasons.
In print CMYK formats, hunter green is about 45% cyan, 25% yellow, 45% black, and 50% magenta. As a web color, the HEX code for hunter green is #355E3B, made of 53% red, 37% green, and 23% blue. When converted to RGB, hunter green is defined as RGB(53, 94, 59).
Key Differences
While forest green and hunter green are both very deep, lush greens, they have some subtle differences:
- Forest green is cooler, with more blue undertones.
- Hunter green is slightly brighter, with more yellow/olive tones.
- Forest green has stronger associations with nature and renewal.
- Hunter green is more associated with military and masculine themes.
In terms of color specifications:
| Color | CMYK Values | HEX/Web Values | RGB Values |
|---|---|---|---|
| Forest Green | 80C, 40Y, 80K, 20M | #228B22 | RGB(34, 139, 34) |
| Hunter Green | 45C, 25Y, 45K, 50M | #355E3B | RGB(53, 94, 59) |
This data shows that forest green contains more cyan and black, giving it those deeper blue-green tones. Hunter green has higher levels of magenta and yellow, adding vibrance and warmth.
Forest Green vs Hunter Green in Decor
In home decor, forest green and hunter green can create very different moods. Forest green has a cooler, earthier feel perfect for creating natural, peaceful spaces. Hunter green feels warmer and more vibrant, great for adding drama and sophistication.
Forest green works beautifully in bedrooms, studies, and meditation spaces. It can be combined with other nature-inspired colors like sage green, brown, and ivory. Hunter green makes a striking statement color in living rooms, dining rooms, and libraries. It pairs well with warm woods, black, cream, and terracotta.
Both shades look fantastic with brass, gold, and antique metals. But forest green feels more rustic with copper accents, while hunter green suits polished nickel and steel. For furniture, choose forest green for a calm craftsman-style aesthetic. Use hunter green for regal Chesterfields, ornate carvings, and elegant mirrors.
Using Forest and Hunter Green in Fashion
In clothing, forest and hunter green can create very different fashion looks. Forest green has an earthy, casual vibe perfect for hiking, outdoor gear, and laidback streetstyle. Hunter green comes across more formal and elegant, ideal for cocktail dresses, military jackets, and sharp tailoring.
Forest green works beautifully in organic fabrics like linen, cotton, and wool. It makes for effortless t-shirts, joggers, overshirts, and sweater dresses. Hunter green shines in satin, velvet, and lace for dramatic evening gowns and party wear. It also gives a sophisticated edge to business attire in fabrics like gabardine and herringbone wool.
Both shades pair excellently with denim, khaki, cream, black, and brown. Forest green feels more weekend-ready with leather boots and sporty parkas. Hunter green elevates professional looks with pointed pumps and fitted blazers. For accessories, choose forest green bags for casual days and hunter green clutches for cocktails.
Using These Greens in Design and Marketing
In design and branding, forest and hunter green can evoke very different visual identities. Forest green feels earthy, natural, and peaceful. It’s perfect for eco-conscious brands, outdoors companies, gardening businesses, retreats, and craft industries. Hunter green feels luxurious, traditional, and sophisticated. It suits law firms, elite country clubs, and established universities.
Both work well in classic, timeless designs. But forest green comes across more casual, friendly, and accessible. Hunter green reads as more formal, executive, and exclusive. On logos and packaging, forest green conveys natural authenticity. Hunter green signals heritage and prestige.
When marketing with these colors, remember forest green for a calm, mindful impression. Use hunter green when promoting quality, prestige, and elite status. Forest green says laidback and ethical. Hunter green says luxury and refinement. Ultimately, the tone and image your brand wants to achieve will help determine which of these greens is a better fit.
Conclusion
While forest green and hunter green are rich, deep greens that look very similar, they have some notable differences. Forest green is cooler-toned with strong blue undertones, while hunter green is warmer with yellow/olive elements. In design, forest green comes across as more casual, rustic, and peaceful. Hunter green reads as more formal, luxurious, and sophisticated.
Both work beautifully in home decor, fashion, and branding when used intentionally. Consider forest green for earthy, cozy, mindful aesthetics. Pick hunter green for elite, established, heritage-inspired designs. Evaluate the emotions and tones you want to convey, and choose the green shade that best achieves your specific style goals.
With their shared sophistication but slightly different undertones, forest and hunter green are both stunning shades to incorporate into any design palette. Decide which green truly captures your vision, and use it stylishly to create spaces, products, marketing, and experiences that feel cohesive and unique to your brand.
