Pale Orchid

Technical Profile

What color is Pale Orchid? It's a light warm purple with the hex code #CAAAFE. Pale Orchid is a distinctive shade in the Behr lineup, and while close cross-brand equivalents exist, its specific blend of warm tone and light depth gives it a character worth comparing in person. Pale Orchid has a warm (pink) undertone, which affects how it pairs with trim, flooring, and adjacent wall colors. Understanding a color's undertone is key to avoiding combinations that clash — it often matters more than the surface color itself. Pale Orchid (#CAAAFE) by Behr is a light purple paint color with a striking intensity that commands attention. It delivers a bright, welcoming quality that keeps interiors feeling fresh. On the temperature spectrum this shade leans toward warmth, adding coziness and inviting energy. In its RGB breakdown, blue is the dominant channel, which gives it a subtle cool, atmospheric depth even under different lighting conditions. Its Light Reflectance Value of 72 means it reflects a healthy amount of light, keeping spaces bright without feeling stark. Light purple tones bring a dreamy quality to bedrooms, reading nooks, and creative workspaces. Eggshell or satin finishes complement light tones nicely, balancing a subtle sheen with durability for high-traffic areas. For color coordination, Pale Orchid pairs beautifully with green tones for bold complementary contrast, or with neighboring magenta and blue hues for a harmonious, flowing palette. Its warm (pink) undertone means trim and ceiling whites should lean neutral to avoid a jarring clash. In terms of mood and atmosphere, Pale Orchid radiates an inviting, sun-washed warmth that makes guests feel immediately at ease. Designers often reach for shades like this when the goal is to shape how a room feels, not just how it looks. This shade is a natural fit for eclectic, glam, and romantic vintage décor. As part of the Behr palette, Pale Orchid benefits from a curated selection of coordinating colors that the brand recommends for trim, accent, and ceiling pairings. High-LRV colors like Pale Orchid are forgiving in most lighting conditions, but they can pick up reflected color from adjacent walls, flooring, or large furniture pieces, so evaluate samples in situ. This tone works well alongside natural textures like jute rugs, bleached wood, ceramic tile, and woven baskets, building an inviting, tactile space. You can order Pale Orchid (660B-4) directly from Behr or through major paint retailers, and we recommend purchasing a peel-and-stick sample to preview it on your wall before buying gallons.