Pearly White by Sherwin Williams SW 7009 is a warm, off-white paint color that brings subtle elegance to a space. It avoids the harsh yellow tones that often pop up in cream paints.
This shade features a unique creamy-gray blend with an LRV of 77. It’s bright enough for most rooms, but still manages to stand out against white trim colors.
Pearly White adds warmth without taking over the whole room. Unlike bolder cream colors, it gives just a gentle hint of yellow, softened by gray—what some folks call the ideal “creamy-gray” combo.
It looks great on walls, cabinets, and even exterior siding. The high light reflectance value means it can really brighten up darker spaces.
But heads up: in rooms with loads of natural light, it might wash out a bit. Pearly White pairs well with simple white trims like Benjamin Moore Chantilly Lace and sits nicely next to light greiges, gray-blues, or warm grays.
Key Takeaways
- Pearly White SW 7009 is a warm off-white with creamy-gray undertones that won’t turn yellow over time.
- Its LRV of 77 makes it bright enough for most spaces, though it may wash out in really sunny rooms.
- It pairs best with simple white trim colors and coordinates well with greiges, gray-blues, and medium-depth accent colors.
What Color Is Pearly White by Sherwin Williams SW 7009?
Pearly White SW 7009 is a warm off-white that sits between pure white and light cream. It has subtle yellow undertones that can shift toward peach or pink, depending on your lighting.
Color Family
Pearly White belongs to the off-white color family and falls into the yellow hue category. It’s definitely warmer than stark white.
You’ll notice gentle yellow undertones as its base. Sometimes, under certain lighting, you might catch a hint of peach or pink.
The color sits in the 5 Y (Yellow) hue family. That means it leans warmer and skips the cool, stark vibe of pure white.
Pearly White works well as a neutral base. It’s not too warm or too cool, so it plays nicely with other colors.
Color Codes (Hex, RGB, LRV)
The hex code for Pearly White SW 7009 is #e8e3d9. Handy if you’re matching digitally or checking out other brands.
Its RGB values break down into specific red, green, and blue components. Designers and contractors use these numbers to get matches just right.
The LRV (Light Reflectance Value) for Pearly White is 9.00. That’s a high number, meaning the paint reflects a lot of light and gives rooms an airy feel.
The chroma value is 0.64, so it’s not an intense color. That low chroma gives it the soft, muted look that makes off-whites a go-to for walls and trim.
Pearly White by Sherwin Williams SW 7009 Undertones
Pearly White brings soft beige undertones that add warmth without looking yellow. It’s a bit different from a lot of other warm whites out there.
The undertones can be a little complex. Sometimes you’ll see slight grayish hints in certain lighting.
Pink and peachy tones might also show up, especially under warm artificial light. It sort of mimics the shimmer you see in real pearls.
Green undertones can sneak in occasionally, depending on your room’s lighting and even the time of day.
Here are the main undertones you might notice:
- Beige (primary undertone)
- Gray (in cooler lighting)
- Pink/Peach (in warm lighting)
- Green (occasionally visible)
The beige undertones keep the color from looking stark or clinical, like pure white can. These undertones make Pearly White a little unpredictable, so testing it in your space is always smart.
North-facing rooms might bring out the cooler gray undertones. South-facing rooms will show off the warmer beige and pink notes.
It shifts subtly throughout the day as your lighting changes. The overall feel is a muted cream with soft undertones and just enough depth.
How Does Lighting Affect Pearly White by Sherwin Williams SW 7009?
Lighting can totally change how Pearly White looks as the day goes on. This warm off-white can lean peach or pink, all depending on your light sources.
Natural Lighting
Natural light really brings out the best in Pearly White. During midday, with strong sunlight, the paint looks clean and bright.
In north-facing rooms, Pearly White adds warmth but doesn’t look yellow. That cool northern light balances out the warm undertones.
Morning light from the east makes Pearly White look softer. You might catch a subtle peachy vibe at sunrise.
Afternoon sun from the west can bring out more of the warm tones. The paint might look a bit creamier then.
South-facing rooms get steady light all day. Pearly White stays pretty true in these spots, with minimal shifting.
Cloudy days tend to make Pearly White look more neutral. Without direct sunlight, the warm undertones fade back a bit.
Artificial Lighting
Your choice of bulbs changes Pearly White at night. Different bulbs, different effects.
Warm LED bulbs (2700K-3000K) boost Pearly White’s natural warmth. The paint feels cozy and welcoming under these lights.
Cool white bulbs (4000K-5000K) tone down the warmth and make Pearly White look more neutral. You won’t see as much yellow or peach.
Fluorescent lighting can make Pearly White look a little flat or gray. Switching to LEDs usually gives better results.
Dimmer switches let you play with the vibe. Lower the lights for more warmth, or crank them up to see the truest color.
Pearly White by Sherwin Williams SW 7009 LRV 77 (Light Reflectance Value)
Pearly White has an LRV of 77. It’s a bright off-white that reflects a lot of light but still feels warm and inviting.
What Is LRV?
LRV stands for Light Reflectance Value. It’s a measure of how much light a paint color bounces back into your room.
The scale runs from 0 to 100. 0 is pure black (absorbs all light), and 100 is pure white (reflects all light).
Most colors land somewhere in between. Lighter colors have higher LRVs; darker colors, lower.
LRV helps you figure out how bright or dark a color will look in your space. High LRV colors make rooms feel bigger and brighter.
Lower LRV colors soak up more light and can make spaces feel cozier or smaller.
Pearly White by Sherwin Williams SW 7009 LRV Range
Pearly White sits at LRV 77, so it’s definitely on the lighter side but not at the very top.
It reflects about 77% of the light it gets, which brightens up rooms without looking harsh or cold.
Colors with LRV 70 and up are considered light. They work well in most rooms and with most lighting situations.
Pearly White’s LRV makes it great for north-facing rooms that need a little extra brightness. It’s also a solid pick for spaces that don’t get much natural light.
You get good light reflection and still keep that soft, warm feeling people love about this color.
Pearly White by Sherwin Williams SW 7009 Coordinating Colors
Pearly White works beautifully with warm neutrals like Accessible Beige, dramatic darks like Urbane Bronze, and crisp whites such as Extra White. These combos play up Pearly White’s subtle yellow undertones and add character to your space.
Accessible Beige SW 7036
Accessible Beige by Sherwin Williams is a natural match for Pearly White. Both share warm undertones that blend easily together.
Accessible Beige has more depth but stays in the same family. It works nicely on accent walls while Pearly White covers the main walls.
Try this combo in living rooms or bedrooms. Accessible Beige adds richness without taking away from Pearly White’s softness.
Best applications:
- Accent walls with Pearly White trim
- Cabinet colors with Pearly White walls
- Two-tone room designs
This pairing creates a cozy atmosphere that feels welcoming. The flow from room to room just feels right.
Urbane Bronze SW 7048
Urbane Bronze SW 7048 brings a dramatic contrast to Pearly White’s lightness. This rich brownish-gray really pops.
The dark bronze makes Pearly White look even brighter and cleaner. Use Urbane Bronze on a feature wall or for cabinetry, with Pearly White on the rest.
This look works especially well in modern spaces. The light and dark balance gives depth and sophistication.
Popular combinations:
- Pearly White walls with Urbane Bronze cabinets
- Urbane Bronze accent wall with Pearly White ceiling
- Bronze front door with Pearly White siding
The combo balances warm and cool tones. Urbane Bronze grounds Pearly White’s airiness and keeps things interesting.
Extra White SW 7006
Extra White SW 7006 is a crisp counterpoint to Pearly White’s warmth. It’s perfect for trim, ceilings, or accent spots.
The combo highlights Pearly White’s subtle yellow undertones. Extra White makes Pearly White look a little creamier and more inviting.
Use this pairing throughout your home for a pulled-together look. Extra White works great on trim and doors, with Pearly White on the walls.
Common uses:
- Trim and molding in Extra White
- Cabinet doors in Extra White with Pearly White walls
- Ceiling color to brighten rooms
Layering these two whites adds light and freshness. It’s a timeless combo that fits with just about any decor.
Trim Colors For Pearly White by Sherwin Williams SW 7009
Picking the right trim color with Pearly White really sets the tone for your home. You get a clean, polished vibe that highlights your walls without stealing the show.
The best trim options are just a bit brighter—think gentle contrast, not sharp edges. This way, you keep the warm, inviting feel that Pearly White brings to the table.
Pure White SW 7005
Pure White nails the balance when you pair it with Pearly White walls. It’s a touch brighter and crisper, but it still has those similar warm undertones.
The difference is subtle, but enough to add depth. Your trim pops just enough to outline baseboards, crown molding, and window frames.
Pure White by Sherwin Williams SW 7005 fits right in with traditional and transitional homes. The combo feels classic and never goes out of style.
This pairing works anywhere, but it really shines in living rooms and bedrooms. Both colors have warm undertones, so you get a cozy atmosphere that still feels open and bright.
Try Pure White in a semi-gloss or satin finish on your trim. It’s durable, easy to clean, and gives you a nice contrast next to matte or eggshell walls. Cleaning’s easier too.
Extra White SW 7006
Extra White brings more contrast to Pearly White walls than Pure White does. You end up with a crisper, more modern look—great for contemporary spaces.
The brightness of Extra White makes details like doorways and windows stand out. It defines your trim without making it feel too harsh.
This combo is especially good in kitchens and bathrooms. The trim feels fresh and clean, while Pearly White keeps things warm.
Extra White has neutral undertones, so it won’t clash with Pearly White’s gentle warmth. The look feels balanced and intentional.
If you want your trim to grab some attention, this is the way to go. The contrast is clear but not over the top, so your home still feels comfortable.
High Reflective White SW 7757
High Reflective White gives you the boldest contrast with Pearly White. It’s Sherwin Williams’ brightest white, so it’s a favorite for sleek, modern interiors.
The difference between these two shades really highlights clean lines and features. Your trim looks extra white against the softer backdrop of Pearly White walls.
This pairing works best in rooms with lots of natural light. The trim bounces light around, making the space feel bigger and brighter.
In smaller rooms or spaces without much sunlight, the contrast can feel like a bit much. You might want to try a sample first to see how it feels.
High Reflective White needs careful prep and application. Any little flaw in the trim will show up, thanks to that super bright finish.
Real World Examples Of Pearly White by Sherwin Williams SW 7009 In Different Spaces
Pearly White looks beautiful in all sorts of spaces, from peaceful bedrooms to bright kitchen cabinets. This warm off-white adapts to different lighting and styles without much fuss.
Bathrooms
Pearly White on bathroom walls turns the space into a calming retreat. The warm undertones keep things from feeling cold or sterile.
This color pairs nicely with white subway tiles and marble counters. It softens harsh lighting while still keeping the room bright.
Popular bathroom combinations with Pearly White:
- White fixtures with chrome hardware
- Natural wood vanities
- Gray or beige accent tiles
It works especially well in powder rooms where you want guests to feel welcome. The vibe is soft and inviting, not stark.
Bedrooms
Pearly White turns bedrooms into peaceful sanctuaries. The gentle warmth makes the space cozy, but never overwhelming.
You can paint all four walls or just use it as an accent behind the bed. It fits with both modern and classic bedroom furniture.
Bedroom styling tips:
- Pair with soft gray or beige bedding
- Add natural wood nightstands
- Use warm lighting to bring out the undertones
Master bedrooms feel especially calm with Pearly White. The color helps you relax while keeping things fresh and tidy.
Front Doors
Pearly White on a front door boosts curb appeal right away. It’s a neutral that works with almost any exterior color or style.
The color stands out on colonial and farmhouse homes. It looks great with both brick and siding exteriors.
Front door considerations:
- Pairs with brass, black, or chrome hardware
- Looks good with colorful landscaping
- Easy to touch up if needed
Pearly White handles weather well, making it a solid choice for outside doors. It hides minor scuffs better than pure white, too.
Home Offices
A home office painted in Pearly White can help you focus. The color cuts down on eye strain and keeps the space looking professional.
This neutral backdrop lets you concentrate without distractions. Video calls look more polished with this clean background.
Office design elements that work:
- Dark wood desks and shelves
- Plants for a splash of green
- Warm task lighting
Pearly White works with both modern and classic office furniture. If you like to change up your decor, you won’t need to repaint every season.
Houses
Painting your whole house in Pearly White helps the rooms flow together. It can actually make your home feel larger and more connected.
The warm undertones stop the place from feeling too sterile. Each room keeps its own character but still ties into the overall look.
Whole house benefits:
- Makes decorating decisions easier
- Feels timeless—won’t look dated soon
- Potential for higher resale value
You can keep the trim and doors the same color or go a bit brighter. This gives you subtle contrast without sudden color changes between rooms.
Kitchen Cabinets
Pearly White makes kitchen cabinets look fresh and bright. It’s forgiving with everyday fingerprints and wear, which is always a plus.
The warm undertones work with both cool and warm countertops. You’ll see it pairs well with granite, quartz, marble, or butcher block.
Cabinet pairing suggestions:
- Stainless steel appliances
- Subway tile backsplashes
- Light or dark countertops
A kitchen island in Pearly White becomes a crisp focal point. The color photographs well for social media and entertaining, if you’re into that sort of thing.
Living Rooms
Pearly White makes living rooms feel more inviting. The neutral backdrop lets your furniture and artwork really stand out.
This shade works great in rooms with little natural light. The warm undertones brighten up dark corners, but never look fake.
Living room styling options:
- Bold throw pillows and rugs
- Natural wood coffee tables
- Metallic accent pieces
You can swap out your decor with the seasons and the walls will always work. Pearly White fits both casual family rooms and formal spaces.
Comparing Pearly White by Sherwin Williams SW 7009 To Similar Colors
Pearly White stands out with its crisp undertones and an LRV of 77. It’s cooler and brighter than many warm whites out there.
It mostly differs from similar colors in how warm it feels. Colors like Shoji White and Creamy are noticeably warmer, while Alabaster brings subtle creaminess.
Pearly White by Sherwin Williams SW 7009 vs Shoji White SW 7042
Shoji White SW 7042 is much warmer than Pearly White. While Pearly White stays clean and crisp, Shoji White leans into beige and greige undertones for a cozier vibe.
Key Differences:
- Undertones: Pearly White is clean and neutral, Shoji White has warm beige-greige tones
- LRV: Pearly White (77) vs Shoji White (70) — Pearly White reflects more light
- Feel: Pearly White feels fresh and modern, Shoji White feels cozy and traditional
Pearly White is better for modern, bright spaces. Shoji White fits traditional homes where you want more warmth than pure brightness.
In north-facing rooms, Pearly White keeps its clean look. Shoji White can look a bit muddy. South-facing rooms make both colors look great, but Shoji White’s warmth stands out more.
Pearly White by Sherwin Williams SW 7009 vs Oyster White SW 7637
Oyster White lands between Pearly White and the truly warm whites. It brings subtle cream undertones—warmer than Pearly White, but not overly cozy like Greek Villa.
Comparison Chart:
| Feature | Pearly White | Oyster White |
|---|---|---|
| LRV | 77 | 75 |
| Undertones | Clean, crisp | Subtle cream |
| Best Use | Modern spaces | Transitional homes |
Oyster White is a good pick if you want something warmer than Pearly White, but you’re not into super yellow tones. It sits comfortably between cool and warm.
Both shades pair well with gray accents. Pearly White works best with cool grays, while Oyster White looks great with warm grays and beiges.
Pearly White by Sherwin Williams SW 7009 vs Natural Choice SW 7011
Natural Choice SW 7011 brings out more beige, making it much warmer than Pearly White. You’ll notice the difference in natural light—Natural Choice feels cozy and creamy.
Natural Choice has an LRV of 73, so it’s a bit darker than Pearly White’s 77. Pearly White bounces more light around and helps rooms feel brighter.
When to Choose Each:
- Pick Pearly White for kitchens, bathrooms, and modern rooms
- Go with Natural Choice for living rooms, bedrooms, and traditional spaces
Natural Choice looks great with warm wood and brass. Pearly White pairs better with chrome, stainless steel, and cooler metals.
In sun-filled rooms, Natural Choice’s warmth really shows. Pearly White stays consistent no matter the lighting.
Pearly White by Sherwin Williams SW 7009 vs Alabaster SW 7008
Alabaster SW 7008 is probably the most popular color people compare to Pearly White. Alabaster has a higher LRV of 82, so it looks brighter, and you’ll notice its subtle warm ivory undertones right away.
Main Differences:
- Brightness: Alabaster (82 LRV) reflects more light than Pearly White (77 LRV)
- Warmth: Alabaster shows gentle cream undertones, while Pearly White stays neutral
- Versatility: Pearly White works better for whole-home use, but Alabaster really shines on trim
Alabaster’s warmth feels perfect for traditional and transitional homes. Pearly White’s neutrality works better in contemporary and modern spaces.
Both are great in any room, but Alabaster tends to glow in bedrooms and living areas. Pearly White feels right at home in kitchens and bathrooms where you want a crisp, clean vibe.
Pearly White by Sherwin Williams SW 7009 vs Greek Villa SW 7551
Greek Villa SW 7551 leans much warmer than Pearly White, with strong cream and yellow undertones. While Pearly White stays clean and bright, Greek Villa creates a cozy, welcoming atmosphere.
Greek Villa’s LRV is around 75, so it’s just a bit less bright than Pearly White. The warmth really pops in natural light, giving rooms a sunny, Mediterranean feel.
Best Applications:
- Pearly White: Modern kitchens, contemporary bathrooms, minimalist spaces
- Greek Villa: Traditional dining rooms, cozy bedrooms, farmhouse kitchens
Greek Villa pairs beautifully with warm wood, terracotta, and earth tones. Pearly White looks better with cool colors, grays, and modern materials.
If you’re after the brightness of white but crave noticeable warmth, Greek Villa delivers. If you want clean neutrality, Pearly White’s your pick.
Pearly White by Sherwin Williams SW 7009 vs Creamy SW 7012
Creamy SW 7012 really lives up to its name, showing obvious yellow undertones that make it much warmer than Pearly White. The difference is pretty dramatic—Pearly White stays crisp, while Creamy feels like buttercream.
Creamy’s LRV is 73, so it’s noticeably darker than Pearly White’s 77. This changes how bright a room feels, with Pearly White making things feel more open and airy.
Style Preferences:
- Modern/Contemporary:
Complementary Colors To Pearly White by Sherwin Williams SW 7009
The warm undertones in Pearly White pair beautifully with cool blues and greens. These combinations give you classic and bold options for home design, depending on your mood.
Pearly White by Sherwin Williams SW 7009 with Naval SW 6244
This pairing might be one of the most striking combos out there. The deep, sophisticated navy of Naval SW 6244 creates a dramatic contrast against Pearly White’s subtle warmth.
Naval works perfectly as an accent wall color. You can paint one wall in Naval and keep the other three walls in Pearly White for a balanced look.
This combo feels right in bedrooms and living rooms. The navy adds depth but doesn’t take over the space.
Try Pearly White on baseboards and crown molding for trim. You’ll get crisp, clean lines that highlight both colors.
Best Applications:
- Master bedroom accent walls
- Kitchen island cabinets
- Home office feature walls
- Dining room wainscoting
Pearly White by Sherwin Williams SW 7009 with Smoky Blue SW 7604
Smoky Blue offers a softer approach than Naval but still gives you beautiful contrast. This gentle blue-gray has enough depth to complement Pearly White without fighting it.
The combo feels calming and peaceful. It works especially well in bathrooms and bedrooms if you’re aiming for a relaxing atmosphere.
Try Smoky Blue on bathroom vanities with Pearly White walls. It gives your space a spa-like vibe.
For nurseries, this pairing feels gender-neutral and soothing. The colors work together to create a gentle environment for sleep.
Room Ideas:
- Guest bathroom vanities
- Nursery accent walls
- Powder room cabinets
- Laundry room storage
Pearly White by Sherwin Williams SW 7009 with Pewter Green SW 6208
This nature-inspired combo brings outdoor freshness inside. Pewter Green SW 6208 has gray undertones, so it never feels too bright or overwhelming.
The muted green adds earthy sophistication. It pairs naturally with Pearly White’s warmth and creates a balanced palette.
Pewter Green looks fantastic on kitchen cabinets next to Pearly White walls. The result feels modern and timeless at the same time.
Try Pewter Green on built-in bookshelves in living spaces. The color adds visual interest but keeps the atmosphere calm.
Popular Uses:
- Kitchen cabinet colors
- Built-in shelving
- Mudroom lockers
- Bathroom tile accents
Pearly White by Sherwin Williams SW 7009 with Cascade Green SW 0066
Cascade Green brings more vibrancy to your palette than Pewter Green. This fresh, medium-toned green creates an energizing but still balanced look with Pearly White.
The combo works beautifully in spaces where you want to feel refreshed. Think breakfast nooks, sunrooms, or home offices.
Use Cascade Green as an accent through furniture or decor. Paint dining room chairs in Cascade Green and leave the walls Pearly White for a playful twist.
For outdoor spaces, this pairing ties indoor and outdoor living together. It’s a good pick for screened porches or covered patios.
Best Spaces:
- Breakfast nook walls
- Screened porch ceilings
- Home office built-ins
- Garden room accents
Pearly White by Sherwin Williams SW 7009 with Distance SW 6243
Distance brings a sophisticated blue-green that feels calming and refined. There’s enough gray in it to act almost like a neutral, but you still get subtle color interest.
The pairing gives you a coastal-inspired palette without being too on-the-nose. It works in both traditional and modern homes, which is honestly pretty rare.
Try Distance on bedroom walls with Pearly White trim. The look is serene and almost spa-like for sleep.
In bathrooms, use Distance for lower cabinets and Pearly White for uppers. You get a nice visual weight at the bottom of the room.
Design Applications:
- Master bedroom walls
- Bathroom two-tone cabinets
- Reading nook paint colors
- Closet interior walls
Pearly White by Sherwin Williams SW 7009 with Moody Blue SW 6221
Moody Blue brings a deeper drama than most blue options, but it doesn’t lose its sense of sophistication. This rich blue-gray pops against the warmth of Pearly White, and honestly, the contrast feels pretty striking.
If you want to make a statement, this combo really delivers. It works especially well in dining rooms or tucked-away home libraries where you want a little wow factor.
Try painting an accent wall in Moody Blue behind your bed’s headboard. The rest of the walls in Pearly White will keep things balanced and not too heavy.
In the kitchen, Moody Blue looks fantastic on a big island. Pair it with Pearly White cabinets around the perimeter for that classic two-tone vibe.
Statement Areas:
- Dining room accent walls
- Kitchen island cabinets
- Home library walls
- Master bedroom headboard walls
Hi all! I’m Cora Benson, and I’ve been blogging about food, recipes and things that happen in my kitchen since 2019.