Tan and taupe are both neutral earth tones that are often used in home decor and fashion. Though they may appear similar at first glance, there are some key differences between these versatile shades. Understanding the distinct qualities of tan vs. taupe can help guide your color choices. This article will compare and contrast tan and taupe, looking at the origins, undertones, shades, and best uses for each neutral hue.
Definitions of Tan and Taupe
Tan is a pale brown color, like the skin of someone with a light tan. The word “tan” comes from the Old English word “tannian” meaning to convert hide into leather through soaking in tannin. This process produced a brownish-yellowish color. Taupe is a grayish shade of brown, sometimes described as a mixture of brown and gray. The name comes from the French word “taupe” meaning mole, as in the burrowing animal which has fur in a taupe color.
Undertones
One of the biggest differences between tan and taupe is their undertones. Undertone refers to the subtle color hue that underlies the main color.
Tan Undertones
Tan has warm golden or yellow undertones. These warm undertones give tan shades an earthy, cozy feeling. Tan evokes images of sand dunes, autumn leaves, or warm desert landscapes.
Taupe Undertones
Taupe has cool gray or bluish-purple undertones. The mixture of brown and gray results in a more sophisticated, sleek impression than tan. Taupe makes people think of polished rocks, stormy skies, or deep shade beneath trees.
Lightness and Darkness
Both tan and taupe come in a wide range of light and dark shades. Here’s an overview:
Light Tan Shades
– Cream
– Beige
– Buff
– Biscuit
– Fawn
– Khaki
Dark Tan Shades
– Golden brown
– Bronze
– Dark chestnut
– Walnut
– Sienna
Light Taupe Shades
– Eggshell
– Champagne
– Ecru
– Sandstone
– Ash gray
Dark Taupe Shades
– Charcoal
– Slate
– Pewter
– Dusk
– Silver fox
Light tans and light taupe have an understated, subtle elegance. Dark tans and dark taupes are moodier and richer. Choosing the depth of shade depends on preference and overall design scheme.
Comparing Specific Tan and Taupe Shades
Looking more closely at popular shades can further illustrate the tan vs. taupe difference:
| Tan Shade | Taupe Shade | Comparison |
|---|---|---|
| Camel | Mushroom | Camel is a light, warm, golden-brown tan. Mushroom is a soft, cool, gray-brown taupe. |
| Desert sand | Dove gray | Desert sand is a pale, sandy tan with yellow undertones. Dove gray is an airy, muted taupe with subtle purple-gray tones. |
| Sepia | Lead | Sepia is a rich, reddish-brown earthy tan. Lead is a sophisticated deep charcoal gray taupe. |
Home Decor Uses
When used in home decor, tan and taupe bring out different feelings in a room:
Tan Decor
– Warm
– Inviting
– Casual
– Rustic
– Outdoorsy
Taupe Decor
– Cool
– Soothing
– Relaxed
– Minimalist
– Elegant
Tans complement woods like maple, oak, cherry and bronze metals. Taupe pairs well with stainless steel, chrome, granite, and marble. Both tan and taupe work nicely with blues and greens.
Fashion Uses
Tan and taupe clothing also create distinct impressions:
Tan Clothing
– Earthy
– All-American
– Sporty
– Bohemian
Taupe Clothing
– Sophisticated
– Chic
– Professional
– Stylish
Tan flatters warm skin tones, while taupe complements cool skin tones. Tan is a staple in casual, laidback fashion. Taupe makes more of a refined style statement.
Conclusion
Though tan and taupe are neutral browns very close in shade, they have distinct differences:
– Tan has warm golden undertones, taupe has cool gray undertones
– Tan feels casual, earthy, and cozy; taupe feels refined, sleek, and elegant
– Tan pairs well with wood tones; taupe pairs nicely with cool metals and stones
– Tan complements warm complexions, taupe flatters cool complexions
When evaluating tan vs. taupe, think about the vibe you want to create. Tan imparts a warm, mellow mood, evoking nature. Taupe sets a more formal, sophisticated tone with hints of mystery. Whether you’re choosing a paint color or an outfit, keep these tan and taupe comparisons in mind as you coordinate soothing, versatile neutrals.
