Lilac and lavender are two shades of light purple that are quite similar, which leads to confusion over whether they are the same color or not. While the two shades are undoubtedly close, lilac and lavender are distinct hues with some key differences.
Quick Answer
Lilac and lavender are different shades of light purple. Lilac tends to be lighter and brighter, with more blue undertones. Lavender is usually deeper and slightly more muted, with more red-violet undertones.
Defining the Colors
To understand the differences between lilac and lavender, it helps to start with definitions of each color:
- Lilac is a light purple or violet shade with hints of pale blue. It takes its name from the lilac flower.
- Lavender is a light or pale purple with hints of pink or red-violet. It is named after the lavender flower.
So while both are light purples, lilac leans more blue and lavender more pink or red-violet.
Comparing Color Codes
Another way to compare lilac and lavender is by looking at their hexadecimal color codes:
| Color | Hex Code |
|---|---|
| Lilac | #C8A2C8 |
| Lavender | #E6E6FA |
This shows that lilac has more blue, while lavender has more red. Lilac’s hex code has equal amounts of cyan and magenta, giving it that blue-purple tone. Lavender has higher levels of red and blue compared to green, creating its soft pinky-purple appearance.
Lilac vs. Lavender Paint Colors
Looking at specific lilac and lavender paint shades also illustrates the differences:
| Brand | Lilac Paint Color | Lavender Paint Color |
|---|---|---|
| Benjamin Moore | Pale Lilac | Lavender Wisp |
| Sherwin-Williams | Snuggle Up Lilac | Sensuous Lavender |
| Behr | Sweet Lilac | Calming Lavender |
The lilac paint shades appear lighter, brighter, and more blue-toned. The lavender colors look slightly muted and deeper, with subtle hints of red or pink.
How Lighting Affects Appearance
One factor that can make lilac and lavender appear more similar or different is the lighting and environment. Here’s how lighting impacts the perception of these colors:
- In natural daylight, the blue tones in lilac are enhanced, while lavender looks more softly pinkish.
- Under incandescent or candle light, lilac and lavender may seem almost identical, as the warm lighting diminishes their subtle differences.
- Fluorescent lighting tends to drain color intensity, making lilac and lavender look more muted and similar.
So in some contexts, like under warm lighting, the hues can appear very close. But in lighting that showcases color accurately, like daylight, the distinction between the more blue-toned lilac and pink-toned lavender is more apparent.
Origins of the Color Names
It’s interesting to note that lilac and lavender actually share their color names with flowers. Here is some background on each:
- Lilac – The lilac flower, which blooms in spring in many parts of the world, is pale violet-blue in color. The French name for the flower is lilas, which is how the lilac color got its name.
- Lavender – Lavender flowers have a soft, delicate purple-pink hue. The flower name comes from the Latin lavare, meaning “to wash”, as lavender was used historically in washing clothes.
So the origins of the color names reinforce the blue tones of lilac from the flower, and the pinker aspects of lavender.
Usage in Fashion and Decor
In fashion and interior decorating, lilac and lavender offer two lovely light purple options. Here’s how they are often used:
- Lilac – The bright, playful hue of lilac shows up frequently in children’s clothing and youthful women’s fashion. It also fits shabby chic, vintage, and retro-inspired decor styles.
- Lavender – Sophisticated and feminine lavender can be found in formalwear, linen, and bridesmaids’ dresses. It works well in romantic, Mediterranean, or traditional home decor themes.
Lilac outfits and designs tend to have a more casual, lively vibe, while lavender leans formal and elegant.
Preferences and Perceptions
When it comes to personal taste, some people will have a clear preference between lilac vs. lavender. Here are some perceptions associated with each hue:
- Lilac – Seen as playful, nostalgic, sweet, and youthful. It evokes springtime and Easter motifs.
- Lavender – Considered soothing, romantic, and feminine. It evokes relaxation, beauty, and tranquility.
While opinions vary, lilac is often viewed as prettier and more fun, while lavender seems more sophisticated and elegant. The two colors create different moods and feelings.
Conclusion
Lilac and lavender represent close shades of light purple, but have some distinct differences:
- Lilac is lighter and brighter, with more blue undertones
- Lavender is slightly deeper and more muted, with pink/red-violet undertones
- Lilac is associated with spring, youth, and informality
- Lavender is associated with relaxation, femininity, and elegance
There’s certainly some overlap in how the colors are perceived and used. But side-by-side, most people would identify lilac and lavender as separate, unique shades. Lilac has that unmistakable baby blue tint, while lavender is softened by hints of pink. So while they are kindred hues, lilac and lavender each have their own delightful personality in the purple family!