Ellie Gray vs Dorian Gray: What’s the Difference?

When searching for the perfect gray paint color, it’s easy to get stuck comparing two similar versatile shades from Sherwin Williams. Popular choices Ellie Gray SW 7650 and Dorian Gray SW 7017 appear very alike at first glance. But what really differentiates these two beautiful, subtle grays?

In this guide, we’ll analyze Ellie Gray vs Dorian Gray in-depth to help you determine the ideal gray paint for your home. We’ll look at undertones, light reflectance, real-life photos, room pairings and more.

Let’s dive in!

Key Differences Between Ellie Gray and Dorian Gray

Before getting into the nitty gritty, here is an overview of the main differences between Sherwin Williams’ Ellie Gray and Dorian Gray:

Undertones – Ellie Gray is a warm gray, Dorian Gray is a cool gray
Light Reflectance – Ellie Gray has an LRV of 40, Dorian Gray has an LRV of 39
Use – Ellie Gray suits traditional styles, Dorian Gray fits modern decor
Rooms – Ellie Gray excels in bedrooms, Dorian Gray shines in bathrooms
Availability – Both come in all sheens

Now let’s explore Ellie Gray and Dorian Gray more thoroughly.

Sherwin Williams Ellie Gray SW 7650

With its warm gray appearance, Sherwin Williams Ellie Gray SW 7650 creates an understated backdrop well-suited for accentuating traditional decor. This versatile neutral works in both formal and casual spaces.

Here are some details about Ellie Gray:

LRV: 40
Undertones: Warm gray
Finish: Available in all sheens
Rooms: Bedrooms, living rooms, dining rooms, offices
Pairs Well With: Wood tones, blacks, jewel tones

Ellie Gray is a relaxed, inviting medium-tone warm gray with tan undertones. In certain lights it can read as a weathered stone. The welcoming neutral has natural appeal.

The 40 light reflectance value prevents the shade from feeling too dark while still remaining cozy. Ellie Gray strikes a comfortable balance suitable for most rooms.

This versatile neutral complements both cool and warm accents nicely. Popular Ellie Gray color pairings include:

Sherwin Williams Pure White
Black accent pieces
Rich wood finishes
Brass hardware accents

While suitable anywhere at home, Ellie Gray truly excels in these spaces:

Bedrooms
Living Rooms
Dining Rooms
Offices
Libraries

Ellie Gray’s warmth helps create a welcoming, traditional feel perfect as an all-over home color. Use it to allow bold colors to stand out.

Sherwin Williams Dorian Gray SW 7017

With its subtle cool gray appearance, Sherwin Williams Dorian Gray SW 7017 creates an understated backdrop well-suited for contemporary styles. This versatile neutral works across modern spaces.

Here are some details about Dorian Gray:

LRV: 39
Undertones: Cool gray
Finish: Available in all sheens
Rooms: Bathrooms, kitchens, living rooms, offices
Pairs Well With: Bold colors, black and white, wood tones

Dorian Gray is a hushed blue-gray with no overt undertones. In all lighting it maintains its sophisticated neutral gray appearance.

The 39 light reflectance value provides ideal balance without being too dark or stark. Dorian Gray gives an open, breathable feel.

This adaptable neutral complements a wide variety of colors from bold to muted. Popular Dorian Gray color pairings include:

Sherwin Williams High Reflective White
Black accent pieces
Rich wood stains and finishes
Chrome hardware accents

While suitable anywhere at home, Dorian Gray truly excels in these chic, modern spaces:

Bathrooms
Kitchens
Living Rooms
Offices
Hallways

Dorian Gray’s sophistication helps create a relaxing yet fresh backdrop, perfect for accentuating contemporary styles.

Comparing Ellie Gray vs Dorian Gray

Now that we’ve examined Ellie Gray and Dorian Gray independently, let’s directly compare them:

Light Reflectance

Ellie Gray and Dorian Gray have very similar LRVs of 40 and 39 respectively. They will appear equally dark.

Undertones

Here’s where the main difference lies. Ellie Gray is a warm gray, while Dorian Gray is a cool gray.

Use & Rooms

Ellie Gray’s warmth is perfect for cozy bedrooms. Dorian Gray’s cool sophistication excels in bathrooms.

Availability

Both Ellie Gray and Dorian Gray come in any sheen from matte to high gloss.

Ellie Gray vs Dorian Gray Comparison Chart

Paint Color	Ellie Gray SW 7650	Dorian Gray SW 7017
LRV	40	39
Undertones	Warm gray	Cool gray
Use	Traditional styles	Contemporary styles
Rooms	Bedrooms, living rooms	Bathrooms, kitchens
Finishes	All sheens	All sheens
Style	Traditional	Modern

Real-Life Photos: Ellie Gray vs Dorian Gray

Let’s look at real-life photos to better visualize the differences between Ellie Gray and Dorian Gray:

Sherwin Williams Ellie Gray

Sherwin Williams Dorian Gray

While they can overlap, Ellie Gray generally appears warmer than the cool gray tone of Dorian Gray. But lighting affects their look.

Should I Choose Ellie Gray or Dorian Gray?

So how do you decide between Sherwin Williams’ Ellie Gray or Dorian Gray for your home? Here are a few tips:

Choose Ellie Gray SW 7650 if you want:

A warm, inviting medium gray
A cozy yet sophisticated neutral for bedrooms
A versatile color that works with traditional decor
A soft, welcoming backdrop

Choose Dorian Gray SW 7017 if you want:

A cool, sophisticated gray
A versatile color suitable for modern spaces
A relaxed feel for bathrooms and kitchens
To allow accent colors to pop

Get samples of both Ellie Gray and Dorian Gray. Paint large sections on your walls viewing at different times of day. This gives you the best sense of how the undertones read in your environment.

You can also pair them with decor you already have to visualize the look. Both offer beautiful, subtle gray tones that suit varied styles.