Colors That Feel Like a Warm Hug to Inspire Your Winter Ahead

The shades of the season that I'm currently coveting – from someone typically color-averse

Welcome, I’m Lindsay. The Slow Studio is a space I’ve created to write about my approach to slow(er) living as a design studio owner, multifaceted creative, first-time mother and more. Keep up with me on Instagram, Pinterest and TikTok.

I can’t quite put my finger on when it happened, but as I’ve eased into full-on adulthood my penchant for bright, vibrant and loud colors has all but melted away.

Sometimes, I think it’s out of practicality: my wardrobe is a sea of blacks, whites, creams and grays punctuated by denim which cuts down on decision fatigue when getting dressed each day.

Sometimes, I think it’s due to conditioning: since turning 30 my social feeds have overflowed with an endless scroll of sad beige™ content, and I’ve chosen to embrace it.

Whatever the reason, I’ve found myself returning to rich, warm hues this winter that feel like a welcoming hug.

As the founder of a brand and website design studio, exploring color trends is one of my favorite parts of the job. Here are a few of my new favorite hues and the inspiration behind them – feel free to allow these to inspire your own creative work, too!

All images: Pexels

Cocoa Brown

This shade of dark, nearly-black brown has always been one of my favorites for winter. It feels warm but also holds an air of mystery and elegance, which I love. I recently used a similar shade in a brand and website design project for a boutique PR agency, which provided the perfect amount of contrast to a palette of feminine blues and creams.

All images: Pexels

Oxblood Red

Some call it burgundy, but I like to call it oxblood. Another nearly-black color, this dark and moody red has been one of my go-to shades for leather goods and accessories this season. I’m especially crushing on this color in the form of these Sézane Albane Loafers!

All images: Pexels

Ecru aka Winter White

I’m a firm believer that white can (and should!) be worn year-round, but I tend to reach for warmer shades of white this time of year. Ecru has been a cornerstone color in my own design studio – for myself and clients alike – over the last eight years that I’ve been in business.

All images: Pexels

Vintage Denim Blue

I recently thrifted a sweater that looks just like this one from Aritzia, and ever since I’ve been absolutely head over heels for dusky denim winter blues. This muted hue feels so serene and like a more vibrant stand-in for grey throughout the overcast months.

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If you’re color-averse, too, what hues are you loving this winter? Likewise, if you adore vibrant color, share your favorites with me! I’m always looking for color inspiration to include in my next client projects.

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