What exactly is a neutral? We know that the “greige” phenomenon has come and almost gone. So what is next in the world of choosing a neutral color for your home? A neutral is really any color that you can’t give a definitive color to. If it’s not pink, turquoise, yellow, green, orange, blue, purple, red etc-it’s a neutral. Cream, beige, ivory, grey etc are all neutrals.
If you’re looking for a paint color for a main living space- you will probably want something versatile that can be complimented with many other colors and patterns. This is where your neutral comes in. If you search “neutral paint colors” on Pinterest- below is what you will find. There is that infamous greige color again. Notice how they have broken out gray by warms and cools. All colors have either a warm hue or a cool hue to them. Warm means exactly that- it probably has a red or orange undertone and cool has greens, blue and blacks. You can have a warm blue, and a cool red. Notice how some of those softer reds you would consider a neutral but a warmer neutral.
What about pattern neutrals? When it comes to fashion I will be the first to tell you that leopard is DEFINITELY a neutral. Leopard print in my opinion can be paired with anything including other patterns. But what about in your home? Leopard is most likely not in everyone’s taste however it can be used so beautifully to accent any room. However, if you check out Alisa Bovino’s blog, A Glass of Bovino she uses the leopard print gorgeously. See how Here.
The beauty in having neutral staples in a room (i.e wall colors, sofas, chairs) is that you can mix and match ANY other color with them. And you don’t have to be afraid to mix pattern either. A striped pillow can most definitely be paired next to a floral and look fabulous. Notice in the picture below there are some neutral pillows and then the others are full of color and pattern.
What I am trying to tell you is that neutrals are great- they’re a perfect base to any room but once you have your foundation, don’t be afraid to build up from there. Layer colors and patterns, try a striped curtain with a floral rug. If you are keeping it in the same color family- it will work! Neutrals don’t have to be a boring greige (I have nothing against this color)- the color is there help you build and develop the room around you.
xoxo Lexi
I love patterns, lots of patterns…together, and it’s good to know that neutral doesn’t just mean greige anymore.
It’s so fun to mix patterns and bring in complimenting colors- starting with a good neutral base is great but it doesn’t have to be the end of a design!