Purple gray is a beautiful and sophisticated color that can add elegance and intrigue to any space. It sits between gray and light purple on the color wheel, creating a muted tone that is often associated with wisdom, dignity, and mystery. Though not extremely common, purple gray can make an impact when used effectively in design and decor.
Defining Purple Gray
Purple gray is a tertiary color, meaning it is created by combining the primary colors of red and blue with the secondary color of purple. Specifically, it contains undertones of blue-gray and red-purple. The color can range from a pale lavender gray to a darker, moodier charcoal purple-tinged gray. It sits next to gray and light purple on the color wheel, but has more nuance and complexity than either of those colors on their own.
Some other names used to describe shades of purple gray include:
– Amethyst Ash
– Lavender Fog
– Smokey Orchid
– Grapemist
– Asteroid
– Palace Gray
– Chinese Violet
– Prune
The hexadecimal code for lighter purple grays is #C6C6E0, while darker purple grays are closer to #7068A2.
Purple Gray vs. Lavender vs. Violet
Purple gray is often confused with lighter shades of purple like lavender and violet. However, there are some key differences:
| Color | Description |
|---|---|
| Purple gray | A subtle mix of gray and light purple, creating a soft muted effect. |
| Lavender | A light purple with more blue undertones, creating a cooler, delicate look. |
| Violet | A richer, bolder purple that leans more toward the red-purple side of the spectrum. |
So in summary, purple gray is more subdued and subtle than true lavender or violet shades. It has an understated sophistication while still nodding to its purple heritage.
The Meaning and Symbolism of Purple Gray
Color psychology suggests purple gray can represent:
– Wisdom and dignity – The muted purple undertones associate purple gray with royalty and luxury. It speaks to knowledge and integrity.
– Mystery and intrigue – The blend of gray adds a smokey, subtle depth. Purple gray seems to speak of secrets and imagination.
– Soothing calm – More peaceful than true purple, but warmer than straight gray, purple gray strikes a balance between stimulating and calming.
– Spirituality – Purple is long connected to the mystical and spiritual realm. Purple gray maintains a sense of otherworldliness.
– Creativity – The complexity of the color implies a creative, artful sensibility.
So while gray brings practicality and purple brings creativity, their combination in purple gray brings an intellectual depth that can feel visionary yet grounded. It’s an enlightened color.
Using Purple Gray in Design and Decor
How can purple gray be incorporated effectively into design and decorating? Here are some tips:
In interiors
– Paint a single accent wall in a bold purple gray. This creates an element of drama and interest against neutral backdrops.
– Upholster furniture in deep purple gray velvet or linen for a glamorous effect.
– Use purple gray rugs or throw pillows to inject visual interest into a monochromatic scheme. The subtle pop of color brings warmth.
– Add purple gray kitchen accessories like canisters, dish towels, and utensil holders for an unexpected but elegant look.
In fashion
– Incorporate purple gray into accessories like scarves, handbags, shoes, and jewelry. It makes a chic complement to black, tan, or lighter blue outfit bases.
– Explore a rich purple gray for coat or jacket. This makes a stylish statement piece.
– Try a purple gray shift dress for an easy weeknight look. The color flatters most complexions.
In graphic design
– Use lighter purple grays for websites and apps when you want a warmer, more playful feel than straight gray. It is both friendly and refined.
– Apply darker purple gray as a sophisticated, upscale background. It lets bold accents like white text really pop.
– Add purple gray highlights to balance brightly colored graphics. The softness helps temper louder design elements.
Notable Examples of Purple Gray
To see purple gray in action, here are some real world cases where the color brings elegance and imagination:
Jacquemus Runway Show
In Fall 2019, designer Simon Jacquemus awed the fashion world with a runway show set against a misty purple gray backdrop, evoking creativity and mystery. The clothing popped against the hazy color.
The Film Inception
In the film Inception, Leonardo DiCaprio and Ellen Page navigate dreamscapes that notably feature quite a bit of purple gray. The color reinforces the surreal, in-between quality of the dreams.
Cadillac Vehicles
Cadillac has embraced purple gray hues like Storm Gray and Dark Adriatic Blue for many of its luxury vehicles. The colors reference wisdom and depth, perfectly suited for the brand.
Moonstone Gemstones
Moonstones exhibit a stunning interplay of light and purple gray, from pale opal-like iridescence to smokey purple sheens. The shifting colors depict the moon’s phases.
Orchids
Certain orchid varieties showcase blooms in purple gray shades, especially moth orchids. The colors have an elegant, delicate beauty.
So whether in art or nature, purple gray can create quite an impact.
Conclusion
Purple gray is an intriguing blend of cool gray and light purple that strikes the perfect balance between active and passive color properties. Sophisticated and mystical, it can lend an air of wisdom and imagination to any space when used effectively. From fashion to film sets, purple gray rarely goes unnoticed even though it is a softer shade. Experiment with incorporating this tertiary tone into your own designs to see what a touch of purple gray can bring to your palette.
