Colors like brown and beige that have low saturation and brightness are often referred to as earth tones or neutral colors. These muted shades are common in nature and have a calming, natural effect. Understanding what categories brown, beige, and similar colors fall into can help when choosing paint colors, decor, fashion, and more.
The Color Family of Brown
Brown is considered a tertiary color, meaning it is created by mixing primary colors. Specifically, brown is made by combining red, yellow, and black pigments or light. This mixing results in the low saturation or dullness of brown.
There are many different shades of brown, from dark chocolate browns to sandy tans. Here are some of the most common types of brown colors:
- Chocolate brown – A rich, deep brown with reddish undertones.
- Coffee brown – A warm, medium brown reminiscent of coffee beans.
- Taupe – A grayish shade of brown with subtle purple or green undertones.
- Tan or beige – Light, muted browns with yellow undertones.
- Camel – A pale, peachy-brown color named for the coats of camels.
In addition to these basic categories, brown can be modified into different hues and shades like chestnut, umber, hazel, cinnamon, khaki, and more.
The Color Family of Beige
Like brown, beige is a tertiary color made by blending primary shades. Specifically, beige contains undertones of brown, white, and cream.
Beige sits next to brown on the color wheel but is lighter in tone. Here are some varieties of beige:
- Peach beige – Has a pinkish, peachy quality.
- Gray beige – Beige with cool, muted gray undertones.
- Greige – A blend of gray and beige, popular in home decor.
- Oatmeal – Resembles natural oatmeal, with warm yellow-brown tone.
Beige can also be modified into shades like biscuit, silk, cashmere, and more based on the specific mix of undertones.
Brown and Beige as Earth Tones
Brown and beige colors are considered earth tones. Earth tones refer to colors seen commonly in nature like soils, rocks, woods, and sands. They have a neutral, mellow, and soothing effect.
Here are some examples of earth tones:
| Earth Tone | Description |
|---|---|
| Sand | Pale golden beiges like desert sand |
| Sienna | Reddish-brown clays from Sienna, Italy |
| Umber | Dark brown shades named for Umbria, Italy |
| Ochre | Yellow earth tones, like mineral ochre |
Earth tones are considered timeless and versatile. They work well in home decor, fashion, graphic design, and more. Earth tones promote feelings of stability, comfort, and being grounded.
Using Brown and Beige in Decor
Brown and beige are popular neutral wall colors because they act as a subtle background that absorbs light and creates a calming mood. Some ways to use earth tones for walls include:
- Painting an accent wall in a rich chocolate brown
- Using beige as a base wall color and adding warmth with wood accents
- Pairing greige walls with bright white trim for contrast
- Painting a front door cinnamon brown to complement tan siding
Earth tones also work well in home decor like furniture, rugs, curtains, and accessories. Combining different shades of brown and beige can create depth and visual interest.
Brown and Beige Fashion
In fashion, earth tones offer a natural, grounded look. Brown and beige clothing pair well with most colors and flatter most complexions.
Here are some ways to wear earth tones in fashion:
- Tan trench coat over neutral business wear
- Chocolate brown strappy heels with a little black dress
- Coffee-colored cashmere sweater with jeans
- Khaki pants and peach beige top for casual wear
Brown handbags and shoes are wardrobe staples because they act as neutral bases that complete many outfits. Beige and tan clothing flatters warm and cool skin equally.
Conclusion
Brown, beige, and similar earthy colors offer versatility in decor and fashion. They create cohesive, calming palettes. Understanding the color families and types of brown and beige helps when using these shades in different applications.
Though brown and beige are considered dull by some, shades can be layered and modified to create depth, and paired with other colors to add visual interest. Earth tones are natural, subtle, and timeless.
