Hunter green and forest green are two popular shades of green that are often used in home decor and fashion. Both are dark, rich greens that have a natural, earthy feel to them. But there are some key differences between these two green colors that are worth noting.
Defining Hunter Green
Hunter green is a deep, dark shade of green that got its name from traditional hunter green clothing worn in the 19th century. It sits between forest green and artichoke on the color wheel.
Some key facts about hunter green:
- It has a grayish-blue undertone that gives it a cool, shaded feel.
- The HEX code for hunter green is #355E3B.
- In the RGV color model, its values are: R: 53, G: 94, B: 59.
- It’s a dark-toned color – the LRV (light reflectance value) is 6%.
- It’s a tertiary color, meaning it’s made by combining primary and secondary colors.
Overall, hunter green is a deep, cool-toned green with muted grayish-blue undertones. It’s a versatile color that works well in formal and natural settings.
Defining Forest Green
Forest green refers to the typical color of forests and trees. It’s a natural, organic shade that calls to mind lush vegetation.
Some key facts about forest green:
- It has a strong yellow undertone that gives it a warmer, earthier feel.
- The HEX code for forest green is #228B22.
- In the RGB model, its values are: R: 34, G: 139, B: 34.
- It has a medium darkness with an LRV of about 13%.
- It’s a tertiary color, made by combining primary and secondary hues.
Overall, forest green is a rich, warm-toned natural green with strong yellow undertones. It evokes foliage, woods, and the great outdoors.
Comparing Hunter Green vs. Forest Green
Now that we’ve defined both shades of green, let’s directly compare hunter green and forest green:
Color Tone
- Hunter green is cool-toned, with hints of blue or gray.
- Forest green is warm-toned, with hints of yellow or gold.
This difference in undertones is the most noticeable distinction between these two greens. Hunter green has a cooler, more muted appearance while forest green looks richer and warmer.
Darkness
- Hunter green is very dark, with an LRV of 6%.
- Forest green has medium darkness, with an LRV of about 13%.
So hunter green is significantly darker than forest green. It has more black added to the base green color.
Uses
- Hunter green works well for sophisticated formal spaces. It’s commonly seen in dens, studies, and libraries.
- Forest green is perfect for creating natural, outdoorsy spaces. It’s popular in living rooms, bedrooms, and cabins.
Both shades of green can create beautiful, inviting spaces. But hunter green leans formal while forest green feels more casual and laidback.
| Color | Tone | Darkness | Use |
|---|---|---|---|
| Hunter Green | Cool-toned | Very dark | Formal spaces |
| Forest Green | Warm-toned | Medium darkness | Casual, natural spaces |
How Lighting Affects These Greens
The way lighting hits hunter green and forest green can significantly impact how they look. Here’s how different lighting affects these shades:
Natural Daylight
In natural daylight, both greens will look richer and more vivid. However, hunter green will appear cooler and duskier while forest green looks bright and cheery.
Warm Incandescent Light
Under warm incandescent light bulbs, hunter green will look even cooler and more muted. Meanwhile, forest green will gain a jewel-toned appearance, taking on a richer green-yellow tone.
Cool White Fluorescent Light
In the stark glow of cool fluorescent lights, hunter green can look almost gray-blue. Forest green will maintain its warmer yellow undertones but may appear slightly duller and washed out.
LED Lights
With LED lights, both shades look closer to their natural state. Hunter green retains its cool blue-green appearance while forest green looks vibrant and warm-toned.
So lighting temperature and intensity will noticeably shift both hues, cool gray-blue for hunter green and rich yellow-green for forest green.
Using Hunter & Forest Greens in Decor
Now let’s explore how these two green shades can be used in home decor:
Hunter Green Decor
Sophisticated hunter green is ideal for creating luxe, formal spaces:
- Use it on study or library walls to create a refined aesthetic.
- Paint cabinets or front doors hunter green for an elegant, timeless look.
- Choose hunter green upholstered chairs or sofas for a stately feel.
- Use an area rug in this shade to define a formal living room or dining space.
Decor tip: Balance the darker hunter green with warm metals like bronze or gold, and lighter neutral tones like cream.
Forest Green Decor
Natural forest green helps create an organic, outdoorsy decor:
- Paint a bedroom forest green for a relaxing woodland aesthetic.
- Use forest green patio furniture or accent pieces for an earthy vibe.
- Choose forest green bedding, pillows, or curtains to bring the outdoors in.
- Select a forest green area rug for a cozy living room or bedroom.
Decor tip: Pair forest green with other earth tones like brown, tan, or terracotta. Adding wood accents enhances the natural look.
Using Hunter & Forest Green in Fashion
These rich greens can make stunning fashion statements:
Hunter Green Fashion
- A hunter green dress or top looks elegant and refined.
- Pair it with black trousers or skirts for a sophisticated work outfit.
- Hunter green coats make a stylish statement and stand out in a winter wardrobe.
- Men can wear hunter green shirts layered under gray suits.
Forest Green Fashion
- Forest green skinny jeans have an on-trend, edgy vibe.
- Pair a forest green sweater with brown boots and scarf for a natural winter look.
- A forest green romper or jumpsuit makes a chic style statement.
- Men can rock forest green jackets layered over white shirts and jeans.
Both shades pair perfectly with neutral colors like black, gray, white, and brown.
Conclusion
While hunter green and forest green may seem similar, they have distinct differences:
- Hunter green is a cooler, gray-blue toned green while forest green is warm and yellow-toned.
- Hunter green reads as darker and more formal. Forest green feels brighter and more organic.
- Hunter green works beautifully in sophisticated settings. Forest green is perfect for creating a natural, cozy look.
- Both greens can make bold fashion statements and pop against neutral textures.
So whether you’re aiming for an elegant study, a rustic bedroom, or a stylish dress, both hunter and forest green are dramatic shades. Understanding their undertones and darkness helps make the best color choice. Use forest green when you want a warm, casual vibe, and pick hunter green when seeking something refined and dramatic. With their natural richness, both greens create stunning and inviting spaces.
