Cream Color: HEX Code, RGB and Meaning

Cream is a pale, buttery yellow-white, richer and warmer than ivory.

HEX is one common value Last updated:

Cream#FFFFC2
HEX#FFFFC2
RGBrgb(255, 255, 194)
HSLhsl(60, 100%, 88%)
CMYKcmyk(0%, 0%, 24%, 0%)

Color definitions vary by source. The HEX above is one common value for "cream" from the open color-name-list dataset, not an official standard. CMYK is a simple conversion; printed results depend on ink and paper.

What cream means

Cream is comforting. Its soft yellow tint suggests milk, butter and warm light, so it reads as inviting and gentle rather than crisp. It works as a friendly alternative to white.

In this dataset cream is a visibly yellow pastel. Other sources define it as paler or more beige, so the word covers a small range.

Tints and shades of cream

Lighter tints are made by mixing with white and darker shades by mixing with black. Click a swatch to copy its HEX.

Cream color palettes

Complementary

Two colors opposite each other on the color wheel: the strongest contrast.

Analogous

Three neighbors on the wheel: a smooth, low-contrast scheme.

Triadic

Three colors evenly spaced around the wheel: lively but balanced.

Colors that go with cream

  • Chocolate (#D2691E): A rich, dessert-like pairing.
  • Olive (#808010): Earthy and calm.
  • Navy Blue (#000080): A fresh, classic contrast.
  • Coral (#FF7F50): A warm, lively accent.

Similar named colors

Sour Veil#FFFFBF
Yellow Mana#FDFCBF
Parchment#FEFCAF
Glowlight#FFF6B9
Matt White#FFFFD4
Bollywood Gold#FFFBAB

Where cream is used

  • Fashion. Cream is a favorite for knitwear, linen and trousers, and it looks more relaxed than white. It pairs well with brown, olive and navy.
  • Interiors. Cream walls, cabinets and fabrics create a cozy, sunlit mood. It softens the contrast of dark furniture.
  • Branding. Bakery, dairy, skincare and lifestyle brands use cream for warmth and approachability.

Cream vs butter yellow

Cream#FFFFC2
Butter Yellow#FFFD74

Butter yellow is clearly yellow; cream is yellow-tinted white. Cream is calmer and more neutral, while butter yellow is more cheerful.

In this dataset the two sit close together. Cream is lighter and paler, and butter yellow is a more saturated pastel.

Frequently asked questions

What color is cream?

A pale yellow-white, like fresh dairy cream.

Is cream warm or cool?

Warm.

What goes with cream?

Brown, olive, navy and coral all look good.

How do you make cream color?

Mix white with a small amount of yellow, and a trace of brown for a duller tone.

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