The perception and definition of colors can be different across different cultures and regions. What one culture may consider as burgundy, another might label as maroon, and vice versa. The distinction between the two colors can be subjective and context-dependent, leading to variations in their interpretations worldwide.
Generally, maroon is a mix of red and brown while burgundy is a mix of red and purple. This attribute makes burgundy to look brighter in appearance than maroon and gives it more of a purplish tinge. Let us talk more about Maroon and Burgundy.
Maroon Color
Maroon is a deep, dark reddish-brown color that sits on the border between red and brown on the color spectrum. The name “maroon’’ was first used in English language in 1789. The word “maroon” originates from the French word “marron,” which means “chestnut.” It is believed to have been named after the chestnut tree, which produces a similar deep reddish-brown color.
Generally, red and brown makes up maroon. Maroon is often considered a more versatile color as it can complement many colors. It is a popular choice in accessories and interior design, uniforms for both schools and sporting teams where it is often paired with white, grey or gold.
Maroon as a shade of red leans towards the darker end of the spectrum. It is created by mixing red with a touch of brown, black, or violet. To get maroon paint using primary colors, you only need to mix blue into a red base using a 5:1 ratio. Further, add a very small amount of yellow paint to obtain maroon’s brownish tinge. The exact resulting shade can actually vary. It can be a deep reddish-brown or a purplish-red.
The symbolism associated with maroon can different depending on cultural contexts. In some cultures, maroon is linked to love and passion, while in others, it may represent courage, strength, and endurance. Due to its deep, grounding nature, many cultures associate it with stability, reliability and a sense of security.
Maroon is a popular color in fields such as fashion, interior design, graphic design and branding. It is also common in formal events and upholstery. Maroon pairs well with colors, such as gold, cream, beige, gray and various shades of pink.
In sports, maroon is a common color used in team uniforms and logos, particularly in colleges and universities. Many schools have adopted maroon as one of their official colors due to its association with tradition, strength and loyalty.
Also Read: Difference Between Purple And Violet Color
Burgundy
The term “burgundy” to describe this color was first used in English in the late 19th century. The name was derived from the Burgundy wine, which is famous for its deep red color. The wine, in turn, was named after the historic Burgundy region in eastern France, known for producing some of the finest wines in the world.
Burgundy is a dark red color with a purplish undertone. It is a deep reddish brown shade, lighter in color than maroon. In other words, Burgundy sits on the red end of the color spectrum but is darker and more subdued compared to traditional red tones. It leans more towards red with a touch of brown due to presence of purple in its composition.
The first recorded use of burgundy as color was in 1881. The deep, dark red is usually a result of mixing red with a dash of green and blue resulting in brown with purple undertones.
Many people associate Burgundy with qualities like power, wealth and opulence. It exudes a sense of authority and class. The color’s connection to the wine industry also lends it associations with celebration, refinement and indulgence. It is seen as more serious than lighter shades of red.
The burgundy color is also similar to other shades of color such as cordovan and oxblood. When it comes to clothing, Burgundy works well with shades of gray such as light gray or charcoal gray. It also pairs beautifully with turquoise, golden yellow and umber, cream, beige and earthy tones like olive green and mustard yellow.
The combination of burgundy with these colors creates a harmonious and refined color palette. Many people prefer Burgundy for formal wear like the evening gowns and tuxedos etc.
In interior design, burgundy is mostly used to accent color. It can be incorporated into furniture, drapes, carpets and decorative elements to add richness and depth to a space.
Also Read: Difference Between Navy Blue, Royal Blue And Cobalt Blue
Maroon Vs. Burgundy Color In Tabular Form
| Points of Comparison | Maroon | Burgundy |
| Name Origins | The term “burgundy” comes from the French wine region of Burgundy, known for its red wine. | “Maroon” got its name from the French word “marron,” which means chestnut. |
| Hue | Maroon is a dark reddish-brown color with a deeper brown undertone. | Burgundy is a dark red color with a purplish undertone. |
| Red vs. Brown Dominance | Maroon is primarily influenced by brown with a hint of red. | Burgundy leans more towards red with a touch of brown. |
| Intensity | Maroon is generally a bit darker and less intense. | Burgundy tends to be a brighter and more vibrant color. |
| How it is made | Mix blue into a red base using a 5:1 ratio. Further, add a very small amount of yellow paint to obtain maroon’s brownish tinge. | Mixing red with a dash of green and blue resulting in brown with purple undertones. |
| Base Colors | Red and brown are the base colors. | Red and purple are the base colors. |
| Hex Code | Hexadecimal code is #800000. | Hexadecimal code is #800020. |
| Physiological Power | Maroon is associated with control, responsibility and thoughtfulness. | Burgundy is associated with a sense of high ambition. |
| Symbolic Meaning | Maroon color symbolizes sacrifice and bravery. Maroon is sometimes linked to resilience and stability | Burgundy is more sophisticated; it symbolizes wealth and power. Burgundy can also be associated with elegance and refinement. |
| Fashion and Design | Maroon is often seen in casual wear and can be used for a more subdued, classic look. | Burgundy is popular in fashion for formal events and luxury items, |
| Complementary Colors | Maroon pairs well with colors such as gold, cream, beige, gray, and various shades of pink. | Burgundy pairs well with gold, cream, beige, gray, and earthy tones like olive green and mustard yellow. |
| Popularity | Maroon is a common choice for restaurant logos, interiors and menus. Maroon is also a very popular choice in uniforms for both schools and sporting teams where it is often paired with white, grey or gold. | Burgundy is often linked to the Roman Catholic Church, as it is one of the liturgical colors. It is the color of the robes worn by Vajrayana Buddhist monks such as Dalai Lama. |
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