When searching for the perfect light blue paint color, it’s easy to get stuck comparing two similar versatile shades from Sherwin Williams. Popular choices Gossamer Veil SW 9165 and Drift of Mist SW 9166 appear very alike at first glance. But what really differentiates these two beautiful, subtle blues?
In this in-depth guide, we’ll analyze Gossamer Veil vs Drift of Mist to help you determine the ideal light blue paint for your home. We’ll look at undertones, light reflectance, real-life photos, room pairings and more.
Table of Contents
Key Differences Between Gossamer Veil and Drift of Mist
Before getting into the details, here is an overview of the main differences between Sherwin Williams’ Gossamer Veil and Drift of Mist:
- Undertones – Gossamer Veil is a green-blue, Drift of Mist is a gray-blue
- Light Reflectance – Drift of Mist has an LRV of 69, Gossamer Veil has an LRV of 62
- Use – Gossamer Veil suits contemporary styles, Drift of Mist fits traditional decor
- Rooms – Gossamer Veil excels in bathrooms, Drift of Mist shines in bedrooms
- Availability – Both come in all sheens
Now let’s explore Gossamer Veil and Drift of Mist more thoroughly.
Sherwin Williams Gossamer Veil SW 9165
With its subtle green-blue appearance, Sherwin Williams Gossamer Veil SW 9165 creates an understated backdrop well-suited for contemporary styles. This versatile light blue works across modern spaces.
Here are some details about Gossamer Veil:
- LRV: 62
- Undertones: Green-blue
- Finish: Available in all sheens
- Rooms: Bathrooms, kitchens, accent walls, offices
- Pairs Well With: Greens, blacks, white
Gossamer Veil is a quiet, sea glass-influenced blue with faint green undertones. In all lighting it maintains its understated neutral blue appearance.
The 62 light reflectance value provides ideal illumination without being too stark. Gossamer Veil gives an open, breathable feel.
This adaptable light blue complements earth tones and black and white nicely. Popular Gossamer Veil color pairings include:
- Sherwin Williams Online
- Black and white patterns
- Brushed nickel accents
- Sage green accents
While suitable anywhere at home, Gossamer Veil truly excels in these sleek, modern spaces:
- Bathrooms
- Kitchens
- Accent Walls
- Offices
- Laundry Rooms
Gossamer Veil’s versatility helps create a relaxing yet fresh backdrop, perfect for accentuating contemporary styles.
Sherwin Williams Drift of Mist SW 9166
With its warm gray-blue appearance, Sherwin Williams Drift of Mist SW 9166 creates an understated backdrop well-suited for accentuating traditional decor. This versatile light blue works in both formal and casual spaces.
Here are some details about Drift of Mist:
- LRV: 69
- Undertones: Gray-blue
- Finish: Available in all sheens
- Rooms: Bedrooms, living rooms, dining rooms, offices
- Pairs Well With: Taupes, blacks, white
Drift of Mist is a relaxed, hazy blue with faint gray undertones. In certain lights it can read as a weathered ice blue. The laidback light blue has traditional appeal.
The 69 light reflectance value prevents the shade from feeling too cold. Drift of Mist strikes a cozy yet bright balance suitable for most rooms.
This versatile light blue complements both warm and cool accents nicely. Popular Drift of Mist color pairings include:
- Sherwin Williams Online
- Black and white patterns
- Brushed bronze accents
- Tan and taupe accents
While suitable anywhere at home, Drift of Mist truly excels in these spaces:
- Bedrooms
- Living Rooms
- Dining Rooms
- Offices
- Libraries
Drift of Mist’s warmth helps create a welcoming, traditional feel perfect as an all-over home color. Use it to allow bold colors to stand out.
Comparing Gossamer Veil vs Drift of Mist
Now that we’ve examined Gossamer Veil and Drift of Mist independently, let’s directly compare them:
Light Reflectance
Drift of Mist and Gossamer Veil have different LRVs of 69 and 62 respectively. Drift of Mist will appear brighter.
Undertones
Here’s where the main difference lies. Gossamer Veil is a green-blue, while Drift of Mist is a gray-blue.
Use & Rooms
Gossamer Veil’s coolness excels in sleek modern baths. Drift of Mist’s warmth is perfect for cozy bedrooms.
Availability
Both Gossamer Veil and Drift of Mist come in any sheen from matte to high gloss.
| Paint Color | Gossamer Veil SW 9165 | Drift of Mist SW 9166 |
|---|---|---|
| LRV | 62 | 69 |
| Undertones | Green-blue | Gray-blue |
| Use | Contemporary styles | Traditional decor |
| Finishes | All sheens | All sheens |
| Style | Modern | Traditional |
Real-Life Photos: Gossamer Veil vs Drift of Mist
Let’s look at real-life photos to better visualize the differences between Gossamer Veil and Drift of Mist:
Sherwin Williams Gossamer Veil
Sherwin Williams Drift of Mist
While they can overlap, Gossamer Veil generally appears crisper and greener than the hazy gray tone of Drift of Mist. But lighting affects their look.
Should I Choose Gossamer Veil or Drift of Mist?
So how do you decide between Sherwin Williams’ Gossamer Veil or Drift of Mist for your home? Here are some tips:
Choose Gossamer Veil SW 9165 if you want:
- A cool, green-tinged light blue
- A versatile color suitable for modern spaces
- An airy feel for bathrooms and kitchens
- To allow bold accent colors to pop
Choose Drift of Mist SW 9166 if you want:
- A warm, gray-tinged light blue
- A cozy yet sophisticated blue for bedrooms
- A versatile color that works with traditional decor
- A soft, welcoming backdrop
Get samples of both Gossamer Veil and Drift of Mist. 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 light blue tones that suit varied styles.
Ideal Room Pairings
Here are some rooms that are especially well-suited to Gossamer Veil and Drift of Mist paint colors:
Sherwin Williams Gossamer Veil
- Bathrooms
- Kitchens
- Accent Walls
- Offices
- Laundry Rooms
Sherwin Williams Drift of Mist
- Bedrooms
- Living Rooms
- Dining Rooms
- Offices
- Libraries
While both light blues work well throughout the home, the above applications make optimal use of their unique strengths.
Decorating Ideas and Color Pairings
On their own, Gossamer Veil and Drift of Mist create peaceful backdrops. Complement them with other colors and materials for gorgeous spaces:
Gossamer Veil SW 9165 Pairings
- Sherwin Williams Online
- Black and white patterns
- Brushed nickel accents
- Sage green accents
Drift of Mist SW 9166 Pairings
- Sherwin Williams Online
- Black and white patterns
- Brushed bronze accents
- Tan and taupe accents
Gossamer Veil vs Drift of Mist – Which is Better?
So which light blue paint color is better for your home – Gossamer Veil or Drift of Mist?
Consider Gossamer Veil SW 9165 if you want:
- A cool, green-tinged light blue
- A versatile color suitable for modern spaces
- An airy feel for bathrooms and kitchens
- To allow bold accent colors to pop
Consider Drift of Mist SW 9166 if you want:
- A warm, gray-tinged light blue
- A cozy yet sophisticated blue for bedrooms
- A versatile color that works with traditional decor
- A soft, welcoming backdrop
While Gossamer Veil offers modern crispness, Drift of Mist provides subtle warm character.
Get samples before deciding. Either beautiful Sherwin Williams light blue you choose will suit your home perfectly.
Frequently Asked Questions
Still trying to decide between Gossamer Veil or Drift of Mist? Here are answers to some common questions:
What are the main differences between Gossamer Veil and Drift of Mist?
The main differences are their undertones. Gossamer Veil is a cool green-blue while Drift of Mist is a warm gray-blue.
What colors complement Gossamer Veil?
Gossamer Veil looks beautiful paired with sage greens, blacks, whites, and brushed nickel accents for nice contrast.
Can you use Drift of Mist in a bathroom?
Yes, Drift of Mist’s laidback warmth would complement marble, white tile, and bronze accents nicely in a bathroom.
Is Gossamer Veil suitable for western exposure?
Yes, Gossamer Veil’s green undertones complement the warm afternoon light from western exposure nicely.
Does Drift of Mist come in eggshell finish?
Yes, Drift of Mist is extremely versatile and comes in any sheen from flat matte to high gloss eggshell.
