Aubergine Is What Color

So, you’re wondering: Aubergine is what color? You can stop playing that mental game of “Is it purple? Is it black?”

The short answer is: it’s a deep, moody purple — like the last bit of twilight before the sky goes fully dark. Think blackberry jam, or a bruise you got from dancing too enthusiastically at a wedding.

But here’s the kicker: we call it aubergine because that’s literally the French word for eggplant. Yes, the vegetable. So you’re asking, “Eggplant is what color?” and the answer is, well… eggplant-colored.

Why not just call it purple?

Because “aubergine” sounds fancy, that’s why. It’s the difference between wearing a “fashion-forward eggplant sweater” and “that puffy purple thing Grandma knitted.”

Fashion folks love aubergine. It’s sophisticated. It doesn’t shout, “I’m a crayon!” It whispers, “I read obscure poetry and I probably own a velvet headband.”

And let’s be honest, if you tell someone your sofa is “purple,” they picture a Barney-themed nightmare. Say it’s “aubergine,” and they picture a luxurious velvet throne in a dimly lit Parisian apartment.

The exact shade, scientifically (sort of)

If you’re a hex-code nerd (no judgment), aubergine hovers somewhere around #604E4A or #3B0723. That’s a dark, reddish-purple with a touch of mournful gray.

It’s not the bright, perky purple of a grape-flavored candy. It’s the purple of a plum that’s been thinking deep thoughts in the fridge for a week.

What Color Goes With Eggplant

Hold it next to black. See that? It’s definitely purple. It has soul. Black has no soul. Aubergine has a lot of soul. It listens to jazz.

The great “what is aubergine” debate

You might hear people call it “eggplant purple.” That’s fair, because— again —aubergine is literally the French word for the vegetable. The British call the vegetable aubergine. Americans call it eggplant.

So in the U.K., if you ask for an aubergine sweater, you might get a weird look, or a confused salesperson holding up a vegetable. But in the world of color, it’s universal.

Here’s a fun party trick: next time someone says, “That’s a lovely aubergine dress,” reply with, “Thank you, it’s actually a dark mulberry.” Watch their eye twitch. You’re welcome.

Where you’ll meet aubergine in the wild

You’ll find it in fall fashion — coats, boots, and lipsticks that say, “I’m ready for a pumpkin spice latte, but I’m also ready to overthrow a small monarchy.”

Interior designers love it for accent walls. One aubergine wall and suddenly your living room looks like a secret members-only club for people who appreciate bold choices.

Aubergine Color Chart Eggplant (color) Wikipedia

And in nature? Well, besides the actual eggplant, you see it in certain orchids, irises, and the faces of disappointed parents when you say you’re “not sure” about having kids.

Aubergine vs. Other Purples: A Showdown

Let’s clear up some confusion. Aubergine is not lilac. Lilac is a lightweight. Lilac goes to the gym and takes selfies. Aubergine stays home and reads Nietzsche.

It is not magenta. Magenta is loud, obnoxious, and refuses to sit down. Aubergine is quiet, mysterious, and knows where you live.

It is not lavender. Lavender is the scent of your grandma’s soap. Aubergine is the scent of a bonfire at midnight.

How to use the word “aubergine” without sounding pretentious

Just drop it casually. “I’m thinking of painting the dining room aubergine. You know, for the drama.” People will nod slowly, impressed.

Aubergine Color | ArtyClick

Wear an aubergine shirt and say, “Oh this old thing? It’s just the color of my soul.” Works every time.

Or, if you’re at a clothing store and the tag just says “purple,” you can sigh and mutter, “They call it purple, but it’s clearly aubergine. Amateur hour.”

The uplifting conclusion (you made it!)

So now you know the truth. Aubergine is that deep, rich, glorious purple that makes everything feel important. It’s the color of a vegetable, a vibe, and a life choice.

Next time you see that shade, don’t just see a color. See a little invitation to embrace the dark side— but in a cozy, stylish way.

Paint a wall. Buy a scarf. Get a nail polish called “Eggplant Emoji.” Life is too short for boring colors. Go aubergine. You deserve it. And honestly? The world needs more people brave enough to wear a bruise-colored vegetable on purpose.

Stay purple, my friends. Stay aubergine. 🍆💜