Off white and ivory are two similar looking neutral shades that are often used interchangeably. However, there are some key differences between these two colors that are worth examining if you want to use them properly. In this article, we’ll take a close look at what defines off white and ivory, how they are similar, and how you can tell them apart. We’ll also provide some tips on when and where to use each shade.
What is off white?
Off white is a pale shade that is not pure white but rather has a very subtle cream or gray cast to it. It falls somewhere between white and beige on the color spectrum. Off white gets its name because it is an “off” version of true white.
Some common types of off white include:
– Cream: Has warm yellowish undertones
– Eggshell: Very pale yellow
– Ivory: Warmer, with a slight tan or yellow tint
– Linen: Subtle grayish or bluish tone
– Snow: Crisp, clean white with only a hint of gray
So in summary, any pale white with the slightest tint of color added can be considered an off white. It’s not stark white but has a soft, muted quality to it.
What is ivory?
Ivory is another neutral off white shade. It gets its name from the milky white color of elephant tusks which were used to produce the ivory trade. True ivory has a distinctly warm, creamy yellow undertone to it.
When referring to the color ivory, it typically means:
– A very pale yellowish white
– Warmer than pure white
– Softer and richer than bright white
– Often compared to the color of ivory tusks or fine bone china
So in decorator terms, ivory refers to shades that borrow from the warm undertones of actual ivory while still being very light. It’s not quite beige, but has more color than pure white.
How are off white and ivory similar?
Off white and ivory have these similarities:
– Neutral base. Both are considered neutral foundation colors on the warmer side of pure white.
– Pale shades. They are light but not stark whites. Off white and ivory have subtle depths closer to a creamy white than a true white.
– Yellow/beige undertones. Both shades have a yellowish, creamy undertone that distinguishes them from cool whites.
– Softer look. Off whites and ivories have a gentler, more relaxed look than bright white. They add a cozy element.
– Versatile accent colors. Off white and ivory work well with most color schemes since they are soft neutrals.
So in summary, off white and ivory are kindred, pale shades that are more mellow than bright white but not quite beige either. This makes them versatile neutral options.
How to tell off white and ivory apart
While off white and ivory are similar, there are some key differences:
| Off White | Ivory |
|---|---|
| Subtly cool, grayish, or creamy | Warmer, yellowish white |
| Lighter and closer to white | More yellow intensity |
| Works with both cool and warm palettes | Fits warm color schemes best |
| Crisper, cleaner look | Softer, more yellow appearance |
As you can see, ivory is the warmer, more yellowish white, while off white runs slightly cooler and grayer. Off white is also lighter and brighter compared to the more muted ivory.
Here are some specific tips for identifying them:
– *Look at undertones:* Ivory has very warm yellow undertones. Off whites can be cool, creamy or grayish.
– *Compare brightness:* Off white will typically look closer to a true white, while ivory appears more muted and darker.
– *See it in context:* The colors surrounding ivory will bring out its yellowness more, while off white pops against both warm and cool palettes.
– *Know common shades:* If a white is called “eggshell” or “linen”, it’s likely off white. If it’s “cream” or “antique”, it likely leans ivory.
When to choose off white vs. ivory
Here are some general guidelines on when to choose off white or ivory:
*Off white works best:*
– If you want a brighter, crisper neutral white. Off white has more pop.
– Against cool-toned color schemes with grays, blues, etc. It adds softness without competing.
– For modern, contemporary spaces and looks. Off white feels fresh and current.
– In rooms with plenty of natural light. Its lighter tone keeps rooms feeling airy.
*Ivory is best:*
– For warm, inviting spaces. Its soft yellow undertone feels cozy and relaxed.
– Against red, green, brown and other earthy palettes. Ivory brings out warm tones well.
– In traditional style homes and rooms. Ivory has an antique vibe.
– In rooms with dim or artificial light. Ivory prevents spaces from feeling too stark.
So in summary, off white has a brighter, modern look fitting cooler schemes, while ivory has a warmer antique look suiting earthier palettes. Choose the undertone that fits the vibe you want.
Using off white and ivory together
Off white and ivory pair beautifully together. Since ivory has more yellow undertones, it can provide a warmer contrast up against crisper off whites.
Some ideas for combining ivory and off white:
– Off white walls with ivory trim
– Ivory sofa against an off white backdrop
– Alternating off white and ivory tiles or stripes
– Off white cabinets with ivory quartz countertops
– An ivory area rug in an off white room
Using ivory to inject warmth against a lighter off white base is a sophisticated look. Vary the proportions depending on if you want more contrast or a soft blended effect.
Conclusion
Off white and ivory have distinctive differences but coordinate seamlessly. Ivory has warm yellow undertones, while off white runs cooler with subtle gray or cream tones. Remember to choose off white for crisp, bright, modern spaces and ivory to add cozy antique flair. But no matter which you choose, they make timeless, elegant neutral backdrops.
