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It’s hard to define a color like taupe. The shade is sort of brown, a little bit gray, and sometimes can have hints of red or green in it. But one thing we know for sure is that taupe is a neutral through and through and pairs well with practically anything. In other words, it’s boring, right? Not so fast. The extremely versatile hue is the star of Madewell and paint brand Backdrop’s first-ever collaboration, and it came to play.

Courtesy of Madewell x Backdrop

Dubbed Studio Hours, the collection encompasses a limited line of clothing as well as a paint color inspired by the endless hours artists spend in the studio and their workwear. The apparel is ideal for DIYers (there’s a sweatshirt, chore coat, overalls, and more), and the fresh paint will be available in Backdrop’s standard, semigloss, and cabinet and door paint (both in full and half-gallon sizes), so you can use it for any type of project—not just covering up white walls. 

Not sure where to start? For a touch of taupe, consider creating a mini arch mural in your dining room (Elizabeth Mahon used this trick to spotlight her bar nook) or, once spring rolls around, swathing a few terracotta pots in the happy neutral. If you’re after a weekend-long project, highlight your home’s architecture by applying the shade to your doors, windows, ceiling beams, and trim. Just don’t forget to snag some quality blue tape before you get started.