Silhouette, by Benjamin Moore – 2026 Color of the Year

Benjamin Moore announced its 2026 Color of the Year: Silhouette AF-655.

Each year, all the major paint companies announce a Color of the Year – a paint color that is intended to define the color trends for the coming year. Sometimes paint companies get it just right, but often, their color choices are more aspirational than inspirational.

Silhouette is being received with mixed reviews. Many are loving this bold choice, calling it sexy and elegant. Others feel that it is boring, and just too gray.

So, lets talk about this paint color so you can decide for yourself whether Benjamin Moore hit the nail on the head or missed the mark.

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What Color is Benjamin Moore Silhouette?

Silhouette is being described by Benjamin Moore as, “a distinctive color that weaves luxurious burnt umber with delicate notes of charcoal.”

I see a lot of brown in Silhouette, in addition to the charcoal base and warm reddish/purple undertones.

According to Benjamain Moore’s intro video, they chose it as their paint color of the year based on the trends they are seeing in fashion.

Having just spend two weeks Italy, the design and fashion center of the world, I agree completely that fashion trends are moving towards neutrals – rich browns, luxurious camel shades, and airy creams.

And those trends will probably continue to weave their way into home interiors.

In fact, Sherwin Williams also chose a neutral for their 2026 Color of the Year. Check out their pick, Universal Khahi, here.

But whether a dark paint color like Silhouette will be used in a home in anything other than an accent on. a mass scale is yet to be seen.

I think dark neutrals like Silhouette provide grounding to spaces, and should be used to bring richness and decadence into a home.

But, it is important to consider that Silhouette is a very dark paint color.

With an LRV (Light Reflectance Value) of 10.18, Silhouette will reflect almost no light back into the room.

For some, this makes it a non-starter. Silhouette just won’t work for most spaces as a whole room color. But, in the right space, Silhouette will create an elegant, maximalist look.

How to Use Benjamin Moore Silhouette

If you are going to use Silhouette as a whole room color, I suggest considering color drenching the space. This means that paint everything in the same color – walls, trim and ceiling. It looks best when paired with wall accents such as box moulding or board and batten to add dimension.

For most people, SIlhouette is a better shade for accent walls, cabinets, home exteriors or any other space that you want to add definition (handrails, woodwork, etc.). Silhouette is a great color to pair with lighter shades because it tends to give your eyes a place to rest, and brings a sense of groundedness.

In many ways, Silhouette reminds me of Sherwin Williams’ 2021 Color of the Year Urbane Bronze. While it has slightly different tones, its richness and uses are very similar.

Benjamin Moore Color Trends Palette 2026

In addition to naming Silhouette their 2026 Color of the Year, Benjamin Moore has also introduced a coordinating color palette to go along with it.

While I have some reservations about Silhouette, I wholeheartedly adore their color palette choices.

The paint colors in the Color Trends 2026 palette are:

• Silhouette AF-655
• Batik AF-610
• Swiss Coffee OC-45
• Narragansett Green HC-157
• Sherwood Tan 1054
• First Crush CSP-310
• Southwest Potter 048
• Raindance 1572

All of the colors go together perfectly, and there is something there for everyone. In all, the color palette makes a perfect whole home color scheme.

In addition to Silhouette, you have Batik, a soft mauve shade; Swiss Coffee, a soft white that is a designer favorite; Narragansett Green, a dark luscious green; Sherwood Tan, an essential camel color; First Crush, a gorgeous pale peach; Southwest Pottery, a burnt red; and Raindance, a soothing blue green.

So for me, I might consider Batik or First Crush in my girls’ rooms. Narragansett Green or Sherwood Tan in my boys’ rooms. Raindance in the bathrooms. Swiss Coffee as a whole home color in spaces like the living room, dining room, and hallways. Silhouette in the office. And Southwest Pottery as an accent color.

A few other neutrals that go with Silhouette are Paris Rain, Fossil and Pashmina.

Final Thoughts on Benjamin Moore Silhouette

Sillouette exudes refined elegance, generating luxury and indulgence as a whole room shade.

As an accent color, Silhouette provides grounding and definition.

The 2026 Color Palette brings balance with its delicate classics and appealing midtones.

Altogether, Benjamin Moore has set forth a thoughtful color scheme that appeals to everyone, without being too boring or passe.

Silhouette is not my favorite pick for a Color of the Year, because it isn’t as usable and functional I think the color choice should be. But, it is undeniably on trend, and a perfect compliment to the gorgeous color palette Benjamin Moore has created.

If you are interested in other Colors of the Year for 2026, check out Sherwin Williams Universal Khaki, or see all of the major paint companies picks for 2026 Colors of the Year here.

Wondering How To Pick the Perfect Paint Color?

I have the best solution for you!

Samplize sells peel and stick paint samples in almost every paint color.

These no-mess, peel and stick sheets are made from real paint, so they will show you exactly what the paint color will look like.

Simply place them on your walls next to your trim, furnishings or fixed elements, and easily see which paint color works best in your space and with your lighting.

Then, peel the sheet off your wall and reapply it somewhere else if you like. You can try several different paint colors with no mess, no fuss and no cleaning paint brushes.

Oh, and you can have them in your home by tomorrow with OVERNIGHT shipping!

As a bonus, be sure to use the code LoveRemodeled10 at check out to get an extra 10% off! Samplize sheets are cheaper than a sample can of paint, and way less work.

They are the easiest (and fastest!) way to try a paint color in your home, with no hassle.

Have a question? Leave me a comment! Remember to check back for a response – it may take me up to a week or two depending on how busy I am, but I’ll try my best to get back to you!

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Thanks for sharing!