Choosing colors can be a challenging task, whether for fashion, interior design, graphic design, or any other purpose. While some colors like blue, red and green tend to get a lot of love, others often fly under the radar and don’t get the appreciation they deserve. In this article, we’ll explore some of the most underrated colors that deserve more recognition.
Defining Underrated Colors
So what exactly makes a color underrated? Generally, these are hues that are not frequently used or discussed compared to more popular colors like blue and red. Underrated colors may not come to mind right away when selecting a palette. They aren’t seen as basics like black and white, but upon closer inspection have unique traits that can elevate any design.
Some signs that a color is underrated include:
– It’s not widely used in fashion or home decor
– It’s overlooked in favor of more mainstream hues
– Many people may not know the name of the color
– It rarely comes up on lists of popular colors
But just because a color isn’t wildly popular doesn’t mean it’s not beautiful! In fact, the novelty of using an unexpected underrated color can really make a design stand out.
Most Underrated Color Families
There are a few broad color families that contain shades that often go unappreciated. Here are some of the most overlooked color families that have many hidden gems.
Earth tones
Earth tones like terra cotta, ochre and sage are very grounding, natural colors. However, browns and oranges aren’t usually thought of as stylish. When used creatively though, earth tones can create a relaxed, organic look.
Yellows
Bright yellows are attention-grabbing, but softer pastel yellows and greenish-yellows like lemon and chartreuse are often forgotten. These muted yellows are perfectly suited for a nursery, bedroom or accent wall.
Blues
Blue may be one of the most popular colors, but many of its shades fly under the radar. Muted blues like periwinkle, denim or slate have a subtle, cool beauty that deserves recognition.
Neutrals
Creams, browns, tans, taupes and greys make up the palette of neutral colors. Since they’re meant to act as versatile backgrounds, neutrals rarely get attention for being special on their own. However, neutrals like camel, oatmeal and charcoal have a subtle elegance.
Purples
Vibrant purples like royal purple and fuchsia get all the love, leaving pastel lilacs and lavenders overlooked. These soft purples have a delicate, romantic vibe perfect for spring.
Most Underrated Specific Colors
Looking beyond just color families, there are many specific hues that are criminally underrated. Here are some of the most overlooked shades that deserve far more use.
Sage Green
Sage green has an earthy, soothing vibe. It’s versatile enough to use in any room while still making a statement. It pairs beautifully with cream, stone and wood accents.
Burnt Orange
Warmer than terra cotta and more vibrant than clay, burnt orange is stunning. It’s bold enough to use prominently in boho or modern spaces but also pairs well with navy blue and brown.
Butterscotch
Butterscotch is a warm golden hue that’s perfect for brightening up a space. It’s playful yet refined, often found in preppy color palettes. It works well with other pastels or darker wood tones.
Seafoam Green
Seafoam green has a soft, oceanic feel. It’s commonly found in beachy spaces but has potential for contemporary, whimsical and transitional interiors too. Gray, sand and white complement it nicely.
Terra Cotta
Earthy terra cotta is commonly seen in Spanish or Southwestern style homes. But its muted red-orange tone is versatile enough for modern farmhouse, traditional and eclectic spaces too. It’s eye-catching without being garish.
Lilac
Pale lilac is like the lighter, more playful sister of purple. It’s sweet without being childish, with a romantic Victorian vibe. Use it in a bedroom, laundry room or feminine office space.
Slate Blue
Slate blue is a greyish-blue that’s both stylish and moody. Pair it with contrasting orange or yellow accents in a living space. It also makes for an on-trend, soothing bedroom when paired with white.
Olive Green
Olive green is versatile, working in masculine spaces, boho rooms, kitchens, bathrooms and more. It has an earthy, peaceful feel that contrasts nicely with navy blue. It’s ideal for those wanting color without anything too bright.
Mustard
Mustard yellow can be challenging to decorate with, but when done right it brings powerful retro vibes. Use it sparsely with other earth tones and primary colors for a bold, lively look.
Dusty Pink
References to “millennial pink” and blush tones often overlook the muted beauty of dusty pink. It’s a soft, feminine shade that creates a romantic mood anywhere it’s used.
Advantages of Underrated Colors
Decorating and designing with overlooked colors that you don’t see everywhere comes with many perks. Here are some of the top advantages of using underrated colors:
Novelty – Your space will stand out for being unique instead of blending in. You likely won’t walk into someone else’s home or office and see the same shades.
Affordability – Underrated colors often come with more affordable price tags since demand is lower. You can get paint, furniture and accessories in these hues for less.
Versatility – Many underrated colors pair surprisingly well with popular hues like navy, white, grey and wood tones. They add interest while still being versatile.
Sophistication – Choosing uncommon colors can give your space a refined, elegant look and feel. It shows you pay attention to subtle details.
mood . Unexpected colors artfully chosen create a specific energy. Muted yellows foster happiness, while slate blue promotes relaxation. Choose underrated hues to convey different moods.
Tips for Decorating With Underrated Colors
Decorating with overlooked colors comes with challenges. Here are some tips to use these hues successfully:
– Start small – Add pops of an underrated color with pillows, throws, accessories or accent walls before committing to larger pieces.
– Pair with neutrals – Surround unexpected colors with neutral backgrounds to let them pop while maintaining balance.
– Repeat – Adding the hue in multiple places ties the space together. Just don’t go overboard.
– Contrast – Pairing complementary underrated colors creates stylish drama. For example, slate blue and burnt orange have visual tension.
– Consider undertones – Ensure an underrated color works with the existing undertones in the space, like wood or stone elements.
Conclusion
Choosing a color palette for your home, wardrobe or any design project undoubtedly includes some predictable, popular options. However, underrated colors deserve your attention and use. Shades like sage green, butterscotch and lavender offer fresh versatility compared to more commonplace hues.
Next time you have the chance to pick some colors, consider choosing something unexpected. With the right complementary accents, even overlooked tones can become the foundation for a stylish, standout space you’ll love.
Allowing creativity and color courage to guide your choices leads to beautiful, personalized palettes that reflect who you are. So skip the basics just this once – those overlooked colors are waiting for their chance to shine.
