2025 Colors of the Year, and How to Use Them

It might seem early, but we're already seeing brands release their 2025 colors of the year. It's a great time to explore these trending colors and see which ones could be perfect for your next painting project. The interior design trend is shifting towards moody spaces full of character and antique-inspired decor, and the current color selections reflect this movement. Dark, statement-making hues are dominating the list, including rich browns, earthy reds, and dramatic blues and purples.

We've compiled all the 2025 colors of the year that we know so far so you can get a preview of what's coming. We also spoke with interior designer and paint color expert Bree Steele to get her take on why these colors made the list and where they might work best in your home.

Rumors by Behr

Back in the '90s, maroon accent walls were all the rage—Rumors is an updated version of that color. It's a deep ruby red that adds warmth and richness to any space, as described by Behr.

How to Use It

"This color feels luxurious and warm, making it perfect for creating a statement," says Steele. "The best places to use it are in the dining room, office, or library. Paired with gold or brass accents, the room will feel sophisticated, even if you're on a budget."

Encore by Valspar

Encore is a saturated blue with violet undertones. According to Valspar, it’s a confident and joyful anchor color. It's vibrant and impactful, but not so bright that it overwhelms the rest of your decor.

How to Use It

This color is ideal for those who want a personalized and bold home. Use it sparingly; limit it to one room or as an accent. "This shade exudes confidence, making it great for a dining room or home office," says Steele. "As an accent color, it grounds and sharpens the room."

Mapped Blue by Dutch Boy

If ultra-dark colors aren’t your thing, Mapped Blue is a fantastic choice. It’s lighter than most on this list but still makes a statement. Dutch Boy describes it as a medium-tone blue with slight yellow undertones. It can appear blue or green depending on the light and time of day.

How to Use It

"Mapped Blue has an earthy and grounded tone, perfect for modern spaces seeking a connection to the outdoors," says Steele. "Its lighter shade opens up rooms, great for smaller spaces. This welcoming color is ideal for kitchens or bathrooms and pairs well with white cabinetry."

Violet by Minwax

Unlike the other 2025 colors of the year, Violet by Minwax is a wood stain rather than a paint color. Staining furniture purple might not be your first choice, but this color gives pieces a whimsical and modern charm. You can also adjust the saturation by applying more or fewer coats.

How to Use It

"The Violet wood stain by Minwax is a sophisticated take on typical neutral tones with a colorful twist," says Steele. "If you want to elevate a room without painting the walls, this stain gives wooden furniture a vibrant pop. It's perfect for side tables or bookshelves."

Quietude by HGTV Home by Sherwin Williams

Quietude offers a softer, lighter option. It’s a muted sage with blue undertones that helps create a serene space. It pairs well with nature-inspired colors like sandy browns, creamy whites, and pale yellows.

How to Use It

"The Quietude shade by Sherwin Williams is similar to Mapped Blue in that it brings an outdoor feel indoors," says Steele. "This makes it perfect for creating tranquil rooms such as bedrooms or bathrooms. Pair it with light woods and natural greenery for a relaxed vibe."

Elderton by Graham & Brown

For a perfectly balanced brown, consider Elderton. Inspired by the deep brown leaves of an Elder tree, Elderton is timeless and adds interest to any room. Unlike some browns, it never has red undertones, making it rich and perfectly neutral.

How to Use It

Dark colors like Elderton are perfect for the color-drenching technique. Apply the color everywhere—included on walls, ceilings, baseboards, and doors—for striking effects. Use this method in dining rooms, media rooms, or powder rooms for a bold and sophisticated look.

Raku by C2 Paint

Similar to Rumors, Raku is a deep, dramatic red for the boldest decorators. C2 Paint describes it as an "earthy, burnt, brownish red with oxidized undertones that infuse spaces with drama and intimacy." It’s deep yet vibrant with rich mahogany undertones, bringing a sense of security, simplicity, and sophistication.

How to Use It

Use this color in spaces where you want a cozy, cocoon-like feel. It transforms small rooms like mudrooms and powder rooms into unexpected jewels. In larger spaces like bedrooms or living rooms, it feels luxurious and chic. Combine it with dark leather furniture and walnut wood tones for a monochromatic reddish-brown space full of texture and dimension.

About the Expert

Bree Steele is an interior designer and color expert at RJ Living. With over a decade in the industry, she has styled homes, Airbnbs, and commercial spaces. Steele is passionate about helping people create their dream spaces through interior choices and paint colors.