Ivory and cream are both off-white colors that are often used interchangeably. However, there are some key differences between these two popular neutral shades. In this article, we will explore the origins, undertones, uses, and which color is ultimately darker – ivory or cream.
Definitions and Origins
Ivory and cream have their roots in nature. Ivory comes from the tusks of animals like elephants and mammoths. It has a slightly yellowish tone. Cream, on the other hand, got its name from the cream or milk fat that rises to the top of fresh milk. It has more yellow undertones than ivory.
Here are some quick definitions of each:
– Ivory – A pale yellowish off-white color like the tusks of elephants.
– Cream – A pale yellowish off-white color like the cream or milk fat in fresh milk.
These natural origins influence the undertones we see in ivory and cream pigments and dyes today.
Undertones
When comparing ivory and cream, the undertones are very important.
Ivory has a slightly yellow, warm undertone. The yellow comes from its origins in elephant tusks. It can sometimes pull a very subtle greenish-gray.
Cream has more yellow undertones than ivory. The higher concentration of yellow makes it feel warmer. Cream can also take on peach undertones in some materials.
Here is a quick comparison of the undertones:
| Color | Undertones |
|---|---|
| Ivory | Slightly yellow, subtle greenish-gray |
| Cream | Warmer yellow, peach |
These undertone differences make cream read as a warmer, more saturated pale yellow compared to ivory.
Uses
Ivory and cream are popular neutral colors that see a lot of use. Here are some of the most common uses for each tone:
Ivory
– Wedding dresses
– Wedding decor
– Top or bottom paint colors
– Neutral base for accent walls
– Bedding and linens
Cream
– Furniture upholstery
– Paint for walls and cabinets
– Cookware
– Curtains and drapes
– Cashmere or wool sweaters
Cream tends to work better for warm decor palettes with woods, leathers, and brass accents. Ivory fits better in cooler palettes with silvers, grays, and blues. However, they can work interchangeably in many cases.
Which is Darker: Ivory or Cream?
Now we get to the key question – which of these two popular neutrals is ultimately the darker shade, ivory or cream?
Looking at paint swatches and textile samples, cream reads as slightly darker than ivory in most cases. There are a few reasons why:
– Cream has more yellow pigment, which darkens the tone.
– Ivory has more white, making it lighter.
– Cream’s undertones give it more saturation. Ivory is more muted.
Here are some examples of ivory and cream paint and textile swatches:
| Sample | Ivory | Cream |
|---|---|---|
| Benjamin Moore Paint | #FFFFF4 | #FFFDD0 |
| Sherwin Williams Paint | #EFEADC | #F0EAD6 |
| Pantone Textiles | #FAF7ED | #FAF3DC |
As you can see, the cream swatches consistently read as slightly darker and more saturated compared to the ivory versions. This holds true across paint brands and textile pigments.
When to Use Ivory vs. Cream
Now that we’ve compared the undertones and darkness levels of ivory and cream, when should you use each shade?
Use ivory if you want:
– A subtle, soft neutral
– A cooler undertone
– A light, ethereal feel
– A palette with grays, blues, greens
Use cream if you want:
– A warm, saturated neutral
– To coordinate with woods and leathers
– A cozy, welcoming feel
– A palette with peach, yellow, or brass
Ivory and cream can work well together in the same palette. Ivory makes a good ceiling or trim color with cream walls, for example. In clothing or design, combining the two adds nice dimension to an all-neutral scheme.
Conclusion
When comparing ivory vs. cream, cream emerges as the slightly darker, warmer shade. Ivory has more white and subtle cool undertones. However, these popular off-whites can be used fairly interchangeably in many cases.
Keep undertones and desired feel in mind. Ivory brings a soft, ethereal vibe for weddings and cool palettes. Cream feels welcoming and cozy for home decor paired with woods. Use cream where you want a bolder neutral, and ivory when you need more subtlety.
Both shades work beautifully in combination. If you’re struggling between cream or ivory, try pulling in both tones for a layered, dimensional neutral palette.
