Tan and brown are two earthy color tones that are quite similar but have some distinct differences. Both tan and brown colors evoke feelings of warmth, comfort, and nature. However, tan tends to be lighter, brighter, and have more yellow undertones whereas brown is darker and contains more red undertones.
The Meaning and Origins of “Tan”
The word “tan” has origins in the Old French word “tanner” meaning to convert hide or skin into leather using tannins. Over time, the word evolved to refer to the natural light brown color of tanned leather. So tan refers to brownish-beige shades that resemble the color of tanned hides and skins.
As an adjective used to describe color, tan refers to pale brown shades that result from exposure to the sun. When the skin is exposed to UV rays from sunlight, it causes the skin to darken and take on tan pigments. So tan came to refer to sun-kissed golden brownish skin tones.
The Meaning and Origins of “Brown”
The word “brown” has Proto-Germanic origins originally meaning “to shine, burn” referring to the warm, fiery colors of burning wood or the earth. Brown sits between the spectrum of red and yellow hues.
Over time, brown became associated with earthy elements like soil, trees, wood, and rocks which commonly share brownish color tones. Brown took on the connotation of being natural, rustic, sturdy, and reliable.
Key Differences Between Tan and Brown
| Tan | Brown |
|---|---|
| Lighter, desaturated shade | Darker, saturated shade |
| Yellow, beige undertones | Red, orange undertones |
| Gives a warmer, brighter look | Gives a deeper, richer look |
| Associated with dry grasses, sand, sun-kissed skin | Associated with wood, earth, autumn leaves |
The main difference between tan and brown is that tan is a lighter, more golden shade whereas brown is darker with more reddish pigments.
Tan has yellow undertones which give it a bright, warm, sunny look. Brown contains more red-orange undertones which create a deeper, richer color.
Tan is linked to dry grasses, sand, and skin darkened by the sun. Brown is associated with wood, soil, trees, rocks, and autumn leaves.
So tan has a yellowish-beige character while brown is more red-orange in tone. Tan lightens and brightens while brown saturates and darkens.
Comparing Tan and Brown on the Color Wheel
On the color wheel, both tan and brown fall in the warm, earthy tones between red and yellow. However, tan sits closer to yellow while brown leans toward red-orange hues.
| Tan | Brown |
|---|---|
| Yellow-orange | Red-orange |
| Yellow beige, peach, gold | Rust, clay, copper |
| Warm, bright, luminous | Warm, deep, rich |
Tan has more yellow-orange character giving it a bright, luminous effect. Brown contains more red-orange for a saturated, darker shade.
Light Tan vs Dark Brown
Light tans are pale, desaturated yellow-brown shades like beige, cream, or ivory. Dark browns are richer, chocolatey brown tones like mahogany or espresso.
| Light Tan | Dark Brown |
|---|---|
| Beige, cream, khaki | Chocolate, coffee, mahogany |
| Very subtle yellow tone | Intense red tone |
| Soft, neutral, quiet | Bold, deep, dramatic |
Light tan has just a hint of yellow, giving it a subtle, muted look. Dark brown has a strong, vivid red tone creating a striking, bold impression.
Warm Tan vs Cool Brown
Warm tan contains golden yellow tones. Cool brown has ashy gray-brown tones with hints of blue.
| Warm Tan | Cool Brown |
|---|---|
| Gold, peach, yellow | Taupe, gray, ash |
| Vibrant, energizing | Relaxing, calming |
| Radiant, cheerful | Subtle, soothing |
Warm tan energizes with its golden glow. Cool brown has a calming effect with its subtle ashy tone.
How Light Affects Tan vs Brown
Light changes how tan and brown colors are perceived. In daylight, tan takes on a brighter golden tone. Under incandescent light, tan can shift more peach or orange.
Brown transforms as well – appearing more vivid and red/orange under warm light but more muted and grayish in daylight.
| Tan in Daylight | Brown in Daylight |
|---|---|
| Bright, vivid golden tone | Muted, grayish tone |
| Tan in Warm Light | Brown in Warm Light |
| Peachy, orangey tone | Rich, vivid red tone |
So tan becomes more golden in natural light while brown appears more subdued. Under warm light, tan shifts peachier and brown becomes intensified.
How Tan and Brown Work Together
Tan and brown work seamlessly together to create cohesive, earthy color palettes. Tan lightens and brightens brown shades, while brown grounds and stabilizes tan.
Some examples of tan and brown color combinations:
| Light tan + Dark brown | Beige sofa + Espresso tables |
|---|---|
| Warm tan + Cool brown | Peach walls + Taupe trim |
| Golden tan + Chocolate brown | Camel pillows + Dark wood furniture |
Tan and brown just seem to effortlessly complement each other. They blend beautifully to create calming, natural color schemes.
Comparing Tan and Brown in Fashion
In fashion, tan and brown provide easy-to-wear, neutral color options. Tan works well for warm weather – creating summery golden glow against sun-kissed skin. Brown has an autumnal, earthy feel that suits cooler seasons.
| Tan Clothing | Brown Clothing |
|---|---|
| Khaki shorts | Chocolate leather jacket |
| Beige sundress | Chestnut boots |
| Peachy linen pants | Cocoa turtleneck sweater |
Tan clothing like khaki shorts or a beige sundress evoke warm weather and the beach. Brown clothing like leather jackets and turtlenecks feel more fall/winter-appropriate.
Both work year-round for an easy, versatile neutral look. Tan creates a casual, relaxed vibe and brown feels more sophisticated.
Comparing Tan and Brown in Decor
For home decor, tan and brown can create cozy, welcoming spaces. Tan adds airiness and illumination. Brown feels substantial, steady, and traditional.
| Tan Decor | Brown Decor |
|---|---|
| Beige sofa | Chocolate leather couch |
| Peach throw pillows | Rust ceramic pots |
| Natural sisal rug | Espresso wood coffee table |
Tan decor like beige sofas and peach pillows feel light and casual. Brown decor like leather couches and wood furniture provides weight and visual interest.
Together, tan and brown create a welcoming space with textures, depth and vibrancy. Tan lightens up a room, while brown anchors it.
Conclusion
Tan and brown represent two sides of the natural color spectrum – bright golden tan versus deep red-brown earthiness.
Tan shades have yellow undertones giving a sunny, luminous look. Brown shades contain more red for a richer, intense color.
Tan evokes images of dry grasses and sand, feeling airy and relaxed. Brown is linked to soil, wood and autumn leaves, feeling grounded and traditional.
Both tan and brown work seamlessly together, complementing each other beautifully in fashion, decor and beyond. Tan brightens up brown and brown stabilizes tan – creating the perfect natural color pairing.
