Understanding red tones can be confusing — especially when it comes to maroon and burgundy, two deep reds often mistaken for each other. Let’s break them down by hue, undertones, fabric behavior, and styling to help you identify and choose the right one.
What Is Maroon?
Definition:
Maroon is a deep red color with a brown base, derived from the French word marron, meaning “chestnut.”
Color Profile:
- Base Hue: Red + Brown
- Undertone: Warm
- Appearance: Deep, earthy, and muted
- Vibe: Classic, grounded, and timeless
Think of ripe chestnuts or autumn leaves — maroon exudes warmth and sophistication. It projects stability and confidence, making it ideal for traditional, formal, or professional wear.
What Is Burgundy?
Definition:
Burgundy gets its name from the Burgundy wine region of France. The color mirrors the rich hue of the wine — a deep red with purple undertones.
Color Profile:
- Base Hue: Red + Purple
- Undertone: Cool
- Appearance: Vibrant, jewel-like, slightly brighter than maroon
- Vibe: Luxurious, regal, and dramatic
Its subtle violet undertones give burgundy a cool, sophisticated edge, perfect for elegant or festive looks.
| Feature | Maroon | Burgundy |
|---|---|---|
| Base Hue Undertone Temperature | Red + Brown Warm Earthy & muted | Red + Purple Cool Vibrant & rich |
| Mood Appears As Best Pairings | Stable, classic, grounded Darker, more subdued Cream, tan, olive, navy, gold | Luxurious, royal, bold Brighter, more vivid Gray, black, blush, silver, forest green |
| Best For | Autumn events, office wear | Winter weddings, parties, receptions |
How to Tell Them Apart
1. See Them in Different Lighting
- Natural daylight:
Burgundy’s purple undertones appear clearer. Maroon shows its brown warmth.
- Yellow indoor light:
Both appear warmer; maroon looks browner.
- White fluorescent light:
Burgundy becomes cooler and more purple, while maroon stays deep red-brown.
2. Look at Fabric Type
Different materials emphasize each tone differently:
| Fabric | Maroon Effect | Burgundy Effect |
|---|---|---|
| Silk / Satin | Warm, rich glow | Jewel-like sheen with purple tint |
| Velvet Georgette / Chiffon | Soft, elegant | Flowing and romantic |
| Brocade | Earthy royal tone (pairs with gold) | Modern regal elegance |
| Wool | Muted and timeless | Sharp and modern |
How to Style Maroon vs. Burgundy
Indian Wear
- Sarees:
- Burgundy silk saree → perfect for receptions.
- Maroon cotton or georgette saree → elegant for daytime events.
- Lehengas:
- Maroon velvet lehenga → classic bridal look.
- Burgundy brocade lehenga → chic, modern sangeet style.
- Kurta Sets & Anarkalis:
- Maroon kurta set → ideal for Diwali or Eid.
- Burgundy Anarkali → formal evening wear.
- Sherwanis & Bandhgalas:
- Maroon brocade sherwani → regal traditional choice.
- Burgundy velvet bandhgala → contemporary, festive look.
Western Wear
- Dresses & Gowns:
- Burgundy gown → ideal for black-tie events.
- Maroon knit dress → perfect for autumn workwear.
- Suits & Blazers:
- Burgundy suit → confident statement piece.
- Maroon blazer → smart-casual versatility.
- Accessories:
Add color subtly with a maroon handbag, burgundy scarf, or deep red heels.
Perfect Color Pairings
| Maroon Pairs With | Burgundy Pairs With |
|---|---|
| Cream, beige, tan | Charcoal, black, off-white |
| Olive, navy | Blush, forest green |
| Gold, bronze | Silver, pewter |
Choosing for Your Skin Tone
| Skin Undertone | Best Color | Why |
|---|---|---|
| Warm (yellow/golden) | Maroon | Complements natural warmth; pairs beautifully with gold jewelry |
| Cool (pink/blueish) | Burgundy | Enhances complexion; works with silver or platinum |
| Neutral | Both | Maroon = earthy & classic; Burgundy = vibrant & bold |
| Fair/Light Skin | Burgundy | Creates elegant contrast |
| Medium/Olive Skin | Both | Maroon enhances warmth, Burgundy adds depth |
| Deep/Dark Skin | Both | Burgundy looks regal, Maroon adds glowing warmth |
Care & Shopping Tips
- Check color in natural light before buying — undertones shift indoors.
- Feel the fabric: different materials change how rich the color looks.
- Follow care labels: deep reds can bleed; dry-clean velvet or brocade.
- Store properly: avoid direct sunlight to prevent fading.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Which color is darker — maroon or burgundy?
Maroon usually appears darker and more muted because of its brown base. Burgundy’s purple undertones make it look slightly brighter.
2. Can I wear maroon and burgundy together?
Yes — as long as you contrast them intentionally. For example, a burgundy blouse with maroon pants can look stylish if the tones are distinct.
3. Is wine the same as burgundy?
Not exactly. Wine covers a range of red-purple shades; burgundy is a specific, deeper tone inspired by the French wine region.
4. What’s the difference between oxblood and plum?
- Oxblood = deep, brownish-red (close to maroon).
- Plum = purplish-brown (leans closer to purple than burgundy).
5. What lipstick goes best?
- With maroon → brick red, warm nude, or brown-red.
- With burgundy → berry, mauve, or deep burgundy.
6. What shoes pair best?
- With maroon → nude, tan, gold, or black.
- With burgundy → silver, gray, black, or tone-on-tone burgundy.
7. Is maroon good for office wear?
Yes — it’s professional yet rich. Try a maroon blouse, skirt, or blazer to add color without distraction.
8. Which suits Indian festivals better?
- Maroon → traditional, auspicious, and warm.
- Burgundy → modern, luxe, and festive.
The Final Word
While maroon and burgundy come from the same family of deep reds, they are distinct colors with their own unique charm. Maroon is your warm, earthy, and classic friend, perfect for creating a grounded and sophisticated look. Burgundy is your rich, vibrant, and luxurious choice, ideal for making a bold and elegant statement.
Now that you know the difference, you can make more confident and stylish choices. Whether you are drawn to the timeless appeal of maroon or the regal vibe of burgundy, you can find the perfect piece to express your style.
Ready to find your perfect shade? Explore the exquisite collections of sarees, lehengas, and gowns at Aza Fashion to discover beautiful designs in both maroon and burgundy.
