There are a few different names used to describe the color that is a dark reddish brown. Some common names for this color include burgundy, maroon, cordovan, and oxblood. While subtle differences exist between these shades, they all refer to rich, deep reddish browns. In this article, we’ll explore the origins and meanings behind these color names to gain a better understanding of this deep, dramatic hue.
Burgundy
One of the most popular names for a dark reddish brown is “burgundy.” As a color, burgundy sits between red and brown on the color wheel. It is darker and more muted than basic red. The first recorded use of “burgundy” as a color name in English was in 1881.
The name comes from the color of Burgundy wine, which gets its hue from the grapes grown in the Burgundy region of France. The famous red wines from Burgundy utilize Pinot Noir grapes. Wines produced in the Burgundy region were exported around Europe, including to Britain, and the deep color of these wines became linked to the name Burgundy.
Beyond wine, burgundy was a popular color in Victorian fashions. It remains associated with rich fabrics like velvet and silk. As a color, burgundy conveys luxury, elegance, and sensuality. It’s also associated with fall and winter.
Maroon
Maroon is another term used for a dark reddish brown. Of all the names on this list, maroon has the oldest origins. It has been used to describe a rich red-brown color since the 17th century.
The first known use of maroon as a color name in English was in 1789. However, the name’s roots go back even further. It derives from words for a chestnut or reddish-brown color in French and Italian.
Maroon was formed from the French word “marron” meaning chestnut. It may also be connected to the Italian “marrone” which described the color of chestnut shells.
In the early 1800s, maroon became the name of a dark red pigment used in dyes and paints. This cemented it as a standard color name in English.
Cordovan
Cordovan is a slightly less common name for a rich reddish brown. It is often used to describe leather, specifically leather made of horsehide or shell cordovan which is leather made from horse buttocks or rear hips. This leather is naturally an attractive reddish brown color.
Cordovan takes its name from the city of Córdoba, Spain which was well known for its production of fine leather goods including riding boots and harnesses. The term cordovan was being used in English to describe leather by the 17th century. By 1825, cordovan was being used as a color term for a dark reddish brown inspired by leather.
Beyond leather, the rich color of cordovan also made it popular for clothes like suits and hats. The term can also be used to describe an auburn hair color featuring deep red-brown tones.
Oxblood
Oxblood is commonly used to describe a very dark reddish brown that almost appears to have a touch of burgundy-colored blood. It is often used specifically to describe leather, shoes, or clothing binding that features this rich, deep red-brown color.
The first use of oxblood as a color name came about in 1924. It was originally used by shoemakers and leather workers to describe a very dark shade of reddish brown leather. The name oxblood was likely inspired by the dark reddish-brown color of dried blood from slaughtered cattle.
While oxblood certainly shares similarities with burgundy, cordovan, and maroon, it is considered a slightly darker, cooler, and grayer reddish brown than the other names on this list. It continues to be a popular color for leather shoes and accessories.
Variations by Color Family
| Color Name | Color Family | Hex Code |
|---|---|---|
| Burgundy | Red | #800020 |
| Maroon | Red-brown | #800000 |
| Cordovan | Brown | #893F45 |
| Oxblood | Red-brown | #4A0100 |
While similar, you’ll see some variation between these dark reddish browns based on the color family they are grouped into. Burgundy sits solidly in the red family, while oxblood and maroon lean slightly more toward red-browns. Cordovan falls more into the basic brown family. The hex codes help illustrate the subtle differences in hue and shading.
Using Dark Reddish Browns in Design
Rich deep reddish browns like burgundy, maroon, cordovan, and oxblood work beautifully in all types of design:
Fashion – These colors are perfect for fall and winter clothing, handbags, shoes, and accessories. They pair well with grays, blacks, browns, and cream colors.
Interior design – Use dark reddish browns in moderation in wall colors, rugs, throw pillows, curtains, and upholstered furniture. Paint an accent wall in a deep burgundy or maroon. Use an oxblood leather chair or couch for drama.
Graphic design – Dark reddish browns command attention in logos, website design, and branding. Cordovan can give a luxurious, vintage vibe. Maroon conveys prestige.
Photography – Fields of autumn leaves, red barns, wine bottles, sunsets – dark reddish brown hues help convey mood and emotion.
Conclusion
Dark reddish browns go by many names, including burgundy, maroon, cordovan, and oxblood. While very similar, each of these rich shades has its own unique history and subtle characteristics. Designers should feel free to experiment with the tonal variations between these colors to find the perfect deep reddish brown for every project. Just remember that small shifts in hue, saturation, and shading can impact the overall look, feel, and mood.
