When looking at the color spectrum, plum and burgundy can appear quite similar. Both are dark reddish purples that evoke a sense of richness and elegance. However, there are some key differences between these two popular shades that help distinguish one from the other.
The Definitions of Plum and Burgundy
In basic terms, plum is a reddish purple while burgundy is a purplish red. But to fully understand how these colors vary, it helps to look at some more precise color definitions:
- Plum – A medium-dark purple with some red undertones. It is created by mixing red and blue, but has more blue than red in its pigmentation.
- Burgundy – A darker, grayish reddish purple. It has more red undertones than plum.
So while both colors contain a mix of red and purple, burgundy leans more to the red and plum leans more to the purple side of the blend. Burgundy also has a subtle grayish undertone.
Comparing HEX, RGB, and CMYK Values
The specific makeup of a color can be seen in its HEX, RGB or CMYK values. Here is how plum and burgundy compare:
| Color | HEX | RGB | CMYK |
|---|---|---|---|
| Plum | #8E4585 | R: 142, G: 69, B: 133 | C: 0, M: 75, Y: 25, K: 27 |
| Burgundy | #800020 | R: 128, G: 0, B: 32 | C: 60, M: 100, Y: 75, K: 50 |
This data shows some clear differences. In RGB values, plum has higher green and blue levels while burgundy is heavier on the red. With CMYK, burgundy has much more cyan, magenta and yellow pigment. This gives it that more vibrant red-purple tone compared to the subtle blue tones of plum.
How Lighting Affects Each Color
The way plum and burgundy appear can also change depending on lighting conditions. For example:
- In daylight, plum will look lighter and somewhat bright, while burgundy will appear a bit muted and darker.
- Under incandescent lighting, plum retains its brightness while burgundy looks richer and more red-toned.
- In low light, the two colors may start to converge but burgundy will remain the darker of the two shades.
So while plum maintains its vibrancy and purple base in different lights, burgundy can shift from grayish to almost maroon depending on the lighting. This chameleonic nature makes burgundy an interesting choice for interior design and fashion.
Associations and Meanings
These colors also have some symbolic associations:
- Plum – Wealth, wisdom, spirituality
- Burgundy – Elegance, richness, depth
Plum is linked to wealth and spirituality in many cultures. Its purple shade is associated with creative energy and imagination. Burgundy represents sophistication, prestige and splendor. It suggests style, subtlety and controlled passion. When used in designs, plum will create a more delicate or mystical mood, while burgundy makes a bold, opulent statement.
Uses in Fashion and Decor
In fashion, plum and burgundy are both popular fall and winter color choices. Plum suits blouses, dresses, skirts and light jackets. It offers a softer, more versatile cool-toned purple. Burgundy works well for suits, coats, leather and heavier fabrics. It has a striking visual presence that stands out in a crowd. Burgundy is also very flattering against most skin tones.
For interior design, plum can lend a bedroom or sitting room a soothing, spiritual atmosphere. It works nicely with lighter blues and greens. Burgundy makes a dramatic accent color for wall paint or velvet furnishings. When combined with gold and cream tones, it creates a luxurious formal living space.
Food and Wine Associations
These shades are both named after fruits that are used to make purple or red wines:
- Plum wine – Made from ume plums native to East Asia. It has a tart, fruity taste.
- Burgundy wine – Made from Pinot Noir grapes in the Burgundy region of France. It has an earthy, complex flavor.
So plum evokes the bright sweet-tartness of plum wine, while burgundy brings to mind the dry, aged flavor of fine French Burgundy reds.
Conclusion
While plum and burgundy may appear quite similar at first glance, they have some distinct differences when their color properties, uses and associations are explored more closely. Plum skews more purple, lightweight and spiritual. Burgundy leans into red, elegance and richness. But both offer beauty, versatility and visual depth when used well in fashion, decor and designs.
