Mustard yellow is a unique shade that can be challenging to find an exact match for. However, there are several colors that are similar and can work well as alternates. When looking for colors comparable to mustard yellow, consider warm, golden yellows as well as some lighter tans and golds.
Similar Warm Yellows
Some shades that are close to mustard yellow include golden yellow, goldenrod, marigold, corn, and lemon yellow. These all have the same warm, golden tone as mustard but range from a little darker to a little lighter.
Golden yellow is very close to mustard but slightly more saturated and vivid. It has the same bold, warm presence as mustard yellow. Marigold is also quite close but tends to be a little lighter and brighter. Corn yellow is a pale golden yellow that is somewhat less intense than mustard yellow.
Lemon yellow is lighter and more vibrant. While not an exact match, it can work nicely alongside mustard yellow in many designs. The two pair well together, with lemon yellow providing a punch of brightness to balance out the earthy mustard tone.
Tan and Gold Alternatives
Some tans and golds can also substitute for mustard yellow in some situations. Khaki is a dull tan that has some of the same earthy qualities as mustard yellow. Gold is brighter and shinier but shares a similar golden color profile.
Khaki is muddier and more muted than mustard yellow, but their darkness levels are similar. Khaki provides a more neutral alternative if the boldness of mustard is too much. Gold is much more metallic and shiny but has strong yellow undertones.
Beige and sand are lighter tan shades that could potentially stand in for mustard yellow when a softer effect is desired. Old gold is a faded, antique version of gold that has similarities to mustard but is not as bright.
Mixing Colors to Get Mustard Tones
Another option is to mix colors together to create a DIY version of mustard yellow. Some possible color combinations include:
- Yellow + orange
- Yellow + brown
- Yellow + red
- Yellow + olive green
Adding a small amount of orange or red to a golden or lemon yellow will darken it towards mustard tones. Mixing in a touch of brown will also deepen a yellow to achieve a mustard look.
Olive green has similar earthy qualities to mustard yellow. Adding just a bit to a golden yellow can give it a mustard appearance. When mixing colors, use a light hand and gradually intensify the mixture until the desired mustard color is reached.
Matching Mustard Yellow with Other Colors
When using a close alternative to mustard yellow, it is important to choose accent colors that pair well with the mustard tone. Here are some complementary color combinations that work with true mustard yellow and similar shades:
- Mustard yellow + light blue
- Mustard yellow + robin’s egg blue
- Mustard yellow + navy
- Mustard yellow + olive green
- Mustard yellow + teal
- Mustard yellow + light purple
Cooler blues and greens nicely balance out the warmth of mustard yellow. Light purples and pinks also pair attractively with mustard yellow by providing a complementary pop of color.
Avoid pairing mustard yellow with other warm colors like oranges, reds, or browns as this can create a clashing, overly warm color scheme. Stick with cooler accent colors for a harmonious mustard yellow color palette.
Uses for Mustard Yellow and Similar Colors
Here are some popular uses for mustard yellow and comparable yellow-tan shades:
- Clothing and accessories – mustard yellow is a trendy color for dresses, blouses, scarves, and hats
- Home decor – use mustard yellow and similar tones when painting walls, on furniture upholstery, lamp shades, pillows, rugs, and decor accents
- Party decorations – yellow tablecloths, garlands, balloons, plates, and napkins
- Signage – eye-catching mustard yellow works for retail stores, restaurants, event displays, and wayfinding signage
- Stationery – invitations, business cards, flyers, greeting cards, and more
- Packaging design – mustard grabs attention on product packaging, shopping bags, and food containers
The bold, bright nature of mustard yellow makes it perfect for adding visual impact wherever it’s used. The color is energizing and pairs wonderfully with many accent colors for fabulous color schemes.
Closest Colors to Mustard Yellow
If trying to find the absolute closest shades to genuine mustard yellow, here are some top options:
| Color Name | Hex Code |
| Golden Yellow | #FFDF00 |
| Goldenrod | #DAA520 |
| Marigold | #FBE870 |
| Corn | #FFF380 |
| Old Gold | #CFB53B |
These colors have the closest resemblance to classic mustard yellow. Golden yellow and goldenrod are nearly indistinguishable from mustard in many situations. Marigold is slightly lighter while corn yellow is a pale variant. Old gold shares similar antique qualities in a deeper tone.
When an exact mustard yellow tone is needed, use the hex codes above to precisely match it. For most other purposes, the broader color options discussed earlier will provide a vibrant mustard yellow look.
Conclusion
Mustard yellow is a gorgeous shade bursting with warm, earthy personality. Many lively yellows and yellow-tinged neutrals can stand in for mustard when an exact match is not possible. Golden yellows like marigold and lemon yellow work nicely, as do tan tones like khaki and gold.
Mixing yellow with small amounts of orange, brown, red, or olive green can also produce natural, mustard-like results. Pairing these mustard yellow equivalents with light blues, greens, and purples creates attractive color combinations.
With its energizing brightness and bold flavor, mustard yellow adds delightful zest and style wherever it’s used. Exploring similar shades opens up abundant delightful options for harnessing the power of mustard.