The color tan occupies an interesting space in the color spectrum, lying somewhere between brown and beige. While many people use the terms “tan” and “brown” interchangeably, there are distinct differences between these two common neutral tones. Understanding the technical definitions and cultural associations of tan can provide greater clarity on whether it should be classified as a shade of brown or considered its own distinct color.
Technical definitions
From a technical standpoint, tan and brown are created by mixing paint pigments or light wavelengths in different proportions. Brown contains more black or blue pigment, while tan has more red or yellow. Here are some key technical differences:
RGB values
The RGB (red, green, blue) values used to create colors on digital displays provide one way to compare tan and brown:
| Tan | R: 210 G: 180 B: 140 |
| Brown | R: 165 G: 42 B: 42 |
As you can see, tan has higher levels of red and green, while brown has higher blue levels.
Paint pigments
In paint, brown contains more black or blue pigment, while tan relies more on yellow, red, or orange pigments. For example:
| Tan | Yellow ochre, burnt sienna |
| Brown | Raw umber, burnt umber |
The ochre in tan gives it a golden orange undertone. Brown’s umbers create a cooler, darker effect.
Light wavelengths
When light hits an object, certain wavelengths are absorbed while others are reflected. The wavelengths that are reflected determine the color we see. Tan reflects more reddish-yellow light, while brown absorbs more of these warm wavelengths.
So technically speaking, tan and brown are distinct mixtures of pigments and light wavelengths. Tan is lighter, warmer, and redder, while brown is darker, cooler, and bluer.
Color theory
Looking at traditional color theory also suggests tan and brown should be considered separate shades:
The color wheel
On a 12-part color wheel, brown is considered a tertiary color between the primary colors red and blue and the secondary color orange. Tan is closer to tertiary colors like citrine, russet, and beige.
Primary, secondary, and tertiary colors
Brown is a tertiary color, meaning it’s created by mixing the primary colors red and blue. Tan is closer to a secondary or tertiary shade of orange, yellow, and red.
Warm and cool colors
Warm colors like tan contain more yellow, red, and orange. Cool colors like brown have more blue, green, or purple. Tan is decidedly warm, while brown can be cool or neutral.
So traditional color theory categorizes tan and brown quite differently based on their pigment mixtures and locations on the color wheel.
Cultural associations
The way tan and brown are described in language and culture also provides clues about whether they are seen as distinct colors:
Color names
Linguistically, “tan” and “brown” are used as completely separate color names in English. Calling something tan (a tan coat) or brown (brown shoes) conveys different images.
Symbolism
Tan is often associated with warmth, vibrancy, and energy. Brown symbolizes earthiness, heritage, and durability. These differing symbolic meanings suggest tan and brown have distinct identities.
Fashion and design
In fashion, interior design, and other aesthetic areas, tan and brown are used to evoke different styles. Tan creates a casual, breezy, beachy look. Brown conveys a more formal, elegant, or rustic vibe. Treating them as interchangeable would limit these aesthetic applications.
The conscious choice of “tan” versus “brown” in cultural contexts provides further evidence that these colors have their own distinct identities.
Are different types of tan actually brown?
While tan is generally seen as distinct from brown, there are certain types of tan that contain enough black or blue to be technically considered shades of brown. These include:
Dark tan
A very dark tan with deep orange, brown, or olive undertones can verge into brown territory. A dark suntan, for example, may appear more brown than tan.
Taupe
Taupe is a greyish tan that contains traces of brown, black, and blue. Some color experts argue taupe falls under the brown umbrella.
Beige
Beige is a pale, light brown that some call “tan.” But on the technical color spectrum, beige sits closer to light brown.
So while pure, warm tan contains more yellow and red, taupe, dark tan, and beige do cross over into shades of brown. Identifying the exact pigment mix is the best way to determine a specific tan color’s relationship to brown.
Special considerations for skin tone
When describing human skin tones, the line between tan and brown becomes especially complex. Skin “tan” is produced by melanin that darkens in response to UV exposure. But genetically, a person’s natural skin pigmentation at their lightest shade may be technically classified as “brown.” Here are some key factors:
Tanning response
Someone who appears pale or fair-skinned may tan to a golden brown shade. Their tanned skin is darker than their natural tone.
Genetic skin color
Many people indigenous to Africa, South Asia, Latin America, and the Middle East have brown as their lightest natural skin shade. Their genetically brown skin darkens further with solar exposure.
Positive associations
Words like “browning” or “bronzing” are sometimes used instead of “tanning” to positively describe the darkening of brown skin. The term “tan” can imply it’s only skin deep.
Respectful communication
It’s best to learn someone’s preferred term for their skin color and use that to avoid making assumptions. Open communication about skin diversity can lead to greater understanding.
So when describing human skin, it’s important to recognize both the technical color definitions and individuals’ social experiences and preferences.
Conclusion
While “tan” and “brown” are sometimes used interchangeably in casual conversation, analytically identifying the precise pigment mix reveals key differences:
– Tan technically contains more yellow and red, while brown has more blue.
– Tan is a golden secondary or tertiary hue, while brown is a darker tertiary mix of primary colors.
– Culture also treats tan and brown as separate colors with distinct light vs. dark associations.
However, there are zones of overlap where dark tan crosses into brown territory based on the precise blend of pigments. And for human skin, inclusive language considers both biological coloration and personal identity.
So in summary, while tan as its own pure, warm shade is considered distinct from brown, the line can blur across certain tan-brown color gradients, especially for human skin tones. But an appreciation for the technical and cultural differences between these rich neutrals can provide more nuance and sensitivity.
