Orange and brown are not usually described as the most glamorous colours in branding. They are warm, practical and, depending on how they are used, can lean a little retro.

But that is also what makes them interesting.

Both colours have strong associations. Orange is energetic and confident. Brown is grounded and dependable. Together, they can give a brand a sense of warmth, honesty and familiarity.

A very 70s colour combination

There is no getting around it. Orange and brown will always carry a little bit of 1970s nostalgia.

For anyone who remembers the era or has seen enough vintage interiors, the combination brings to mind patterned lounges, shagpile carpet, heavy timber furniture, burnt-orange wallpaper and brown dinner sets.

For a while, that made the colours feel dated. But like many things in design, what once felt old can come back around with a fresher edge.

Today, warm, earthy palettes are reappearing across interiors, packaging, hospitality, fashion, and lifestyle branding. The difference is in the treatment. Instead of loud orange and heavy brown, brands are leaning into softer terracotta, caramel, clay, tan, rust, cocoa and warm neutral tones.

Used well, the palette can feel contemporary, natural and approachable