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“Blue is the closest color to truth.”—Steven Tyler
Whether you’re channeling Parisian elegance or simply trying to escape the beige overload in your life, French blue paint colors are a trés chic way to elevate your space. Here’s something that you may not have known: blue is the world’s favorite color, with a remarkable 42% of people choosing it as their top pick and I am one of them!
It’s no surprise that French blue has shot up in popularity with both interior designers and weekend DIY enthusiasts. So, grab a croissant, get comfortable, and let’s explore the beautiful range of French blue shades offered by two leading paint brands: Benjamin Moore and Sherwin Williams.
What Is French Blue?
French blue is that perfect balance between subtle sophistication and bold statement. Think of the color of a chic Parisian’s tailored coat or the shutters on a countryside château. It’s vibrant but not loud, calming yet not boring—a color that knows how to hold its own without stealing the spotlight.
In practical terms, French blue sits somewhere between a soft gray-blue and a richer royal blue. It’s versatile enough to play well with whites, creams, and even warmer tones like golds and muted terracottas. Whether you’re aiming for a modern coastal vibe or a timeless, traditional look, French blue has your back.
TOP FRENCH BLUE PAINT COLOR CHOICES
Benjamin Moore’s Best French Blue Paint Colors
Benjamin Moore offers a stunning lineup of French blues that work beautifully in a variety of settings. Each shade brings its own unique personality and charm, making it easy to find one that fits your style and space. Here’s a closer look at some standout options:
Santorini Blue (1634)
This dreamy, Mediterranean-inspired blue evokes the iconic skies of the Greek islands. Its soft gray undertones add a layer of sophistication, making it perfect for serene bedrooms or relaxing bathroom retreats.
- Pair It With: Crisp white trim like Benjamin Moore’s Chantilly Lace for a clean and airy aesthetic.
- Pro Tip: Apply it in a north-facing room to balance cooler light and make the space feel warmer.
- Best Use: Bedrooms, bathrooms, or coastal-themed kitchens.
Blue Danube (2062-30)
For those who crave a bolder statement, Blue Danube is a rich, vibrant French blue with a touch of drama. It’s ideal for accent walls or adding a pop of color to furniture.
- Pair It With: Warm metallics such as brushed brass or antique gold for an upscale, glamorous vibe.
- Pro Tip: Tone down its intensity with soft, neutral furnishings.
- Best Use: Dining rooms, accent walls, or custom cabinetry.
Solitude (AF-545)
Solitude is the ultimate whisper of French blue. Muted and leaning slightly toward gray, it’s the ideal choice for anyone wanting to dip their toes into the world of color without diving headfirst.
- Pair It With: Neutral shades like soft cream or taupe for a harmonious look.
- Pro Tip: Use it in open-plan areas where you need a color that’s subtle yet adds interest.
- Best Use: Hallways, living rooms, or minimalist spaces where tranquility is key.
Sherwin Williams’ Top Picks for French Blue
Sherwin Williams has mastered the art of creating timeless colors, and their French blues are no exception. From soft and airy to decadent and moody, here are their top picks and why you’ll love them:
Lullaby (SW 9136)
Picture yourself snuggling up in the coziest blanket of calm. That’s what Lullaby feels like. This soft French blue has a hint of green, which makes it a great pick for setting a chill vibe. It’s like bringing a relaxing spa day right to your walls.
- Pair It With: Bright white wainscoting, natural linen fabrics, and light oak wood for a soft, harmonious look.
- Pro Tip: This shade looks great in spaces with ample natural light, where its subtle nuances can truly shine.
- Best Use: Perfect for nurseries, bathrooms, or meditation corners where tranquility is key.
Distance (SW 6243)
Distance is all about depth and style. This medium-dark French blue has a touch of gray that adds to its moody yet classy feel. It’s like the paint version of a comfy cashmere sweater—cozy, stylish, and always looking good.
- Pair It With: Charcoal accents, warm wood furniture, and brushed gold details for a luxe, grounded aesthetic.
- Pro Tip: Use it as an anchor color in larger spaces or as a dramatic backdrop for bold artwork.
- Best Use: Ideal for living rooms, home offices, or statement walls in dining areas.
Aleutian (SW 6241)
Aleutian strikes the perfect balance—it’s not too light, not too dark, but just right. With its understated gray undertones, it’s a versatile French blue that fits seamlessly into both modern and traditional spaces.
- Pair It With: Soft pastels like blush or sage, or warm neutrals like creamy beige for a fresh, approachable look.
- Pro Tip: This color thrives in transitional spaces like a hallway or entryway. It creates a welcoming and cohesive flow.
- Best Use: Excellent to use to create cohesiveness in open-concept areas or adding a polished touch to guest bedrooms.
Examples of where to Use French Blue in Your Home
French blue is practical and of course the obvious, gorgeous! Here’s how to make it work in different spaces:
Living Rooms
French blue on the walls creates an instant feeling of calm. Pair it with plush white sofas, layered rugs, and gold accents for a luxe look.
Bedrooms
Want a bedroom that feels like a high-end boutique hotel? French blue is your answer. My favorite was to stayle around it is by pairing it with crisp white bedding and touches of velvet for a cozy, sophisticated retreat.
Kitchens
French blue cabinets? Yes, please! This is where Santorini Blue or Aleutian can truly shine. Pair them with white countertops and brass hardware for a timeless yet on-trend aesthetic.
Bathrooms
A soft French blue like Lullaby or Solitude will give any bathroom a serene oasis, spa-like feel. Add polished chrome fixtures and fluffy white towels to complete the look.
Front Doors
Make a statement with a French blue front door. It’s bold, inviting, and a step above the usual reds and blacks. Bonus: it pairs beautifully with classic white or gray exteriors.
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French Blue Paint Color Pairings
Not sure where to start? Here are some paint colors that pair beautifully with French blue hues to create stunning palettes:
- Benjamin Moore Chantilly Lace (OC-65): A crisp, clean white that highlights the depth of French blue tones.
- Sherwin Williams Alabaster (SW 7008): A warm, creamy white that softens the look for a cozier vibe.
- Benjamin Moore Pale Oak (OC-20): A subtle, warm greige that complements French blue’s cool undertones.
- Sherwin Williams Repose Gray (SW 7015): A versatile, modern gray for a balanced and elegant pairing.
- Benjamin Moore Simply White (OC-117): A bright, airy white to keep things fresh and light.
Mix and match these options with French blue walls or accents to craft your dream space! sure how to build a palette around French blue? Here are some foolproof combinations:
- Classic: French blue + crisp white + navy
- Warm & Inviting: French blue + cream + gold
- Modern Coastal: French blue + pale gray + soft beige
- Bold & Dramatic: French blue + charcoal + black
How to Test Your french blue Paint Colors (Without Losing Your Mind)
Here’s a truth bomb: paint always looks different on your walls than it does on a tiny swatch. Lighting, furniture, and even time of day can all impact how a color appears. To avoid costly mistakes, grab some peel-and-stick samples from Samplize. They’re mess-free and let you see the color in action.
Need a few more reason to try Samplize?
- – Super affordable
- – Mess-free
- – Non-damaging
- – Made with real manufacturer paint
- – Displays color just like on a wall
- – Environmentally friendly
- – Reusable
These peel-and-stick paint samples are very affordable and allow you to test a paint color in different areas of a room without the mess associated with traditional paint samples.
I’m a firm believer in testing paint colors; it’s essential! To simplify things, order Samplize and have them delivered right to your door. No hassle, no mess! Take a look for yourself—you won’t be disappointed.
Final Thoughts – must see French blue paint colors
French blue is a true vibe right now. It such a chill color, its like the “unbothered” color in the painting world. Its full elegance, charm, and timelessness. It doesn’t matter if you are painting an entire room or just adding an accent piece, this shade can totally transform your space into something that feels like a scene from a Parisian dream.
So, are you ready to say “oui” to French blue? Grab your brushes and let’s make magic happen! And don’t forget to share your transformations—because we’re all about celebrating the power of paint.
P.S. Need help deciding? I’m just a message away. Let’s find the perfect French blue for your project!
I’m Cate. As a seasoned paint color consultant and former proprietor of the highly regarded painting company WOW 1 Day Painting in Bergen County, my journey in the world of design and home improvement has been a colorful one, quite literally. Nestled in the scenic landscapes of Northern New Jersey, I’ve cultivated a passion for transforming spaces through the power of paint, furniture restoration, and thoughtful home decor.