Dover White by Sherwin Williams (SW 6385) is a soft, warm off-white that brings a welcoming feeling to any room. You might be looking for a paint color that isn’t too stark or too yellow, and Dover White strikes a good balance. This shade has a hint of creaminess, which makes it stand out from more pure whites.
If you’ve struggled to find a white that works well with your home’s lighting and existing decor, you’ll find Dover White’s versatility helpful. It pairs nicely with a variety of trim and accent colors, making it a reliable choice for walls, ceilings, and even cabinetry. Its undertones make rooms feel inviting without looking dated or dull.
Key Takeaways
- Dover White is a warm, creamy off-white by Sherwin Williams.
- Your lighting and coordinating colors can influence how Dover White looks.
- Dover White fits many styles and works well in different spaces.
What Color Is Dover White by Sherwin Williams SW 6385?
Dover White by Sherwin Williams is a soft, warm white that stands out because of its creamy undertone. It is a popular choice for both walls and trim in homes.
Color Family
Dover White belongs to the off-white color family. You will notice it has a subtle warmth that sets it apart from bright, crisp whites.
It does not feel stark or cold. Instead, it gives your space a gentle, inviting look. The yellow and beige hints make it feel cozy and lived-in without looking yellow.
This paint works well in traditional, farmhouse, and even modern settings if you want a softer look. It is especially helpful in rooms where you want some warmth, but still need a light paint color.
Dover White is often compared to Sherwin Williams Creamy, but Dover White is a bit warmer and has more softness.
Color Codes (Hex, RGB, LRV)
If you are mixing paint or working with a designer, knowing the color codes is important.
- SW Number: SW 6385
- Hex Code: #F0EADC
- RGB Values: 240 (Red), 234 (Green), 220 (Blue)
- Light Reflectance Value (LRV): 83
The high LRV means this color reflects a lot of light, making your rooms feel bigger and brighter.
Here is the color information in a table:
| Code Type | Value |
|---|---|
| SW Number | SW 6385 |
| Hex | #F0EADC |
| RGB | 240, 234, 220 |
| LRV | 83 |
This information helps you match Dover White with other colors or materials in your home.
Dover White by Sherwin Williams SW 6385 Undertones
Dover White has creamy, warm undertones that set it apart from cool, crisp whites. You’ll notice a slight yellow tint, but it’s soft and not overpowering.
If you want a white that feels cozy instead of stark, you might enjoy these subtle yellowish tones. This makes the color feel inviting in almost any room.
Some people see hints of beige when they look at Dover White, especially in rooms with warm lighting. In cooler light, the yellow undertones stand out a bit more.
Here’s a quick breakdown of what you might see in Dover White depending on your space:
| Lighting Condition | How Undertones Show Up |
|---|---|
| Warm Lighting | Creamy, soft, more yellow |
| Cool Lighting | Slightly brighter, more subtle yellow |
| Natural Light | Balanced, warm off-white |
Tip: Test this color in your room and at different times of day. The undertones can change with the light and surrounding colors.
If you pair Dover White with cool grays or blues, you’ll notice the warm undertones even more. With warmer accents like creams or beiges, Dover White will feel more neutral.
How Does Lighting Affect Dover White by Sherwin Williams SW 6385?
Lighting has a big impact on how Dover White looks in your space. The type and amount of light can change its warmth, brightness, and the way its undertones show up.
Natural Lighting
Dover White is a creamy white with soft yellow undertones. In spaces with lots of natural light, it can look bright and cheerful. Sunlight brings out its warm side, making rooms feel cozy and welcoming.
If your room gets light from the north, Dover White might look a bit cooler or even slightly grayish. In south-facing rooms, this color appears warmer and more golden. The shifting daylight can also make Dover White appear lighter or a bit deeper during different times of the day.
Large windows or open floor plans give Dover White its brightest and most true look. If you want a soft, inviting white that stays warm even on cloudy days, Dover White works well.
Quick Tips
- South-facing rooms: More warmth and creamy look.
- North-facing rooms: Slightly muted or cooler.
- Morning/Afternoon sun: Subtle shifts in brightness and undertones.
Artificial Lighting
Artificial lighting can change Dover White’s appearance, depending on bulb type and light placement. Warm white LEDs or incandescent bulbs will bring out its yellow undertones, making the color feel even creamier.
Under cool white or daylight bulbs, Dover White may seem more neutral and less warm. In evening lighting, if the space relies on lamps or accent lights, the color can look richer and sometimes a bit darker.
If you mix different light types, be aware that the shade can shift from room to room or corner to corner. Consider testing the color in your space with your actual bulbs and fixtures to see which effect you like best.
Table: Dover White & Bulb Types
| Bulb Type | Appearance |
|---|---|
| Incandescent | Warm, creamy, yellowish |
| Warm LED | Warm, soft, inviting |
| Cool LED | More neutral, slightly muted |
| Daylight | Brighter, less yellow |
Dover White by Sherwin Williams SW 6385 LRV (Light Reflectance Value)
Dover White SW 6385 has a high Light Reflectance Value, making it a bright and reflective color. Knowing the LRV helps you understand how this paint will look in different rooms and lighting conditions.
What Is LRV?
LRV stands for Light Reflectance Value. It shows how much light a paint color reflects. LRV is shown as a percentage from 0 to 100, with 0 being pure black and 100 being pure white.
A higher LRV means a color reflects more light. This helps rooms feel brighter and more open. Lower LRVs absorb more light, making spaces feel cozier or darker.
Designers use LRV to pick the right paint color for each space. For example, in smaller rooms or places with little natural light, a higher LRV paint can help make the area seem larger.
Dover White by Sherwin Williams SW 6385 LRV Range
Dover White SW 6385 has an LRV of about 82–83. This places it on the higher end of the scale. It reflects a lot of light, but it’s not a true stark white.
Because it’s so reflective, Dover White helps brighten dark hallways, basements, or north-facing rooms.
You’ll notice that Dover White is warm with a hint of creamy undertone. Its high LRV, combined with the warmth, means your walls stay light but don’t look cold or harsh like some brighter whites.
Here’s a quick table for reference:
| Paint Name | LRV |
|---|---|
| Dover White SW 6385 | 82–83 |
| True White (for comparison) | 100 |
Dover White by Sherwin Williams SW 6385 Coordinating Colors
Dover White works well with warm and neutral shades. Pairing it with balanced or earthy colors can create a welcoming and timeless look in your space. Here’s how three popular Sherwin Williams colors coordinate with Dover White.
Balanced Beige SW 7037
Balanced Beige brings a warm, mid-tone depth that blends softly with Dover White. This beige is not too dark but adds a clear contrast to Dover White’s creamy tone. The combination can make a room feel inviting but not overwhelming.
If you want a neutral color that stands out without looking harsh, Balanced Beige is a solid choice. It works well in living rooms, bedrooms, and hallways, especially where you want a cozy yet airy feel. You can also use Balanced Beige on larger walls and keep Dover White for trim, ceilings, or built-ins.
Try adding wood furniture and warm metallics like brass to highlight the space even more. Here’s a quick comparison:
| Paint Color | Use on | Mood Created |
|---|---|---|
| Dover White SW 6385 | Trim, ceilings | Light, creamy |
| Balanced Beige SW 7037 | Walls | Warm, calm |
Accessible Beige SW 7036
Accessible Beige is a lighter, more modern beige that leans slightly warm, but not yellow. When paired with Dover White, it creates a soft and natural look. This is a favorite choice if you want your space to feel fresh but not too stark.
This combination works well in both traditional and modern homes. You can paint main walls with Accessible Beige and use Dover White on trim, cabinets, and doors. The subtle warmth in both colors means they coordinate seamlessly without clashing.
Accessible Beige also pairs well with natural fibers, plants, and simple wall art. It’s a color that’s versatile enough for almost any room, helping you achieve a simple and peaceful look.
Relaxed Khaki SW 6149
Relaxed Khaki is a warm, earthy neutral with a soft green undertone. When used with Dover White, it gives your room an organic and grounded feel. This combo works especially well if you have natural textures or want to bring the outdoors inside.
Relaxed Khaki on the walls and Dover White for trim or wainscoting can add depth without feeling heavy. Universal khaki shades like this are great for family rooms and entryways, making them welcoming and easy to decorate.
Pair these colors with wicker, linen, and greenery to complete the look. Relaxed Khaki makes Dover White stand out but keeps the space feeling calm and balanced.
Trim Colors for Dover White by Sherwin Williams SW 6385
Choosing the right trim color can make Dover White stand out or blend in, depending on what you want for your space. Some popular trim options from Sherwin Williams look good with Dover White and help create different styles and moods.
Pure White SW 7005
Pure White is a soft, clean white shade that works well as trim with Dover White.
When you use Pure White for trim, you get subtle contrast. Dover White has warm, creamy undertones, but Pure White is a little more crisp, making the edges stand out without being too sharp or cold.
You might notice that Pure White trim gives rooms a fresh and updated feel. This combination is a favorite for modern and transitional styles, where you want clean lines but still a touch of warmth. Pure White’s versatility makes it a safe and popular pick if you want your trim to stand out just enough.
Here’s a quick comparison:
| Dover White SW 6385 | Pure White SW 7005 |
|---|---|
| Warm, soft white | Clean, crisp white |
Alabaster SW 7008
Alabaster is another soft white with creamy undertones, close to Dover White but just a bit lighter.
If you want your trim and walls to blend easily without too much contrast, Alabaster may be the choice for you. Alabaster gives a gentle, seamless appearance that can help make your space feel calm and cozy, especially in bedrooms or living areas.
Using Alabaster as trim gives a gentle transition between the walls and trim. This makes rooms look comfortable and relaxed. It’s also a good choice if you like a monochromatic palette where trim doesn’t distract from your wall color.
You’ll notice it works well in homes with traditional or cottage-style decor, where soft edges help create a relaxed mood.
Extra White SW 7006
Extra White is one of Sherwin Williams’ brightest true whites.
When you pair it with Dover White, the difference is much more noticeable. Extra White trim provides high contrast, making trim pop out from the walls and giving your room a very crisp, clean look.
This works best in spaces where you want a bright, fresh style. Modern or coastal rooms often use this combination for a bright, open feel. Just remember, if your room has warm lighting, Extra White may show the creaminess of Dover White even more.
Use Extra White when you want trim that looks very bright and frames your walls with clear, defined lines.
Real World Examples of Dover White by Sherwin Williams SW 6385 in Different Spaces
Dover White SW 6385 is a soft off-white shade that can feel warm and welcoming without being too yellow. Its subtle undertones help it adapt to any space, giving you flexibility for different rooms and styles.
Living Rooms
You can use Dover White in your living room to create a cozy and bright atmosphere. The color has a creamy warmth, which works great if you get natural light through the windows.
Pairing Dover White walls with white trim or dark hardwood floors creates a nice contrast. It can help showcase your furniture and décor without making the space feel stark or cold.
Layering textured throws, cushions, and area rugs brings even more interest and dimension when you have this soft neutral on the walls. Dover White also blends nicely with pops of color like navy or green.
Bedrooms
Dover White is a popular pick for bedrooms because it feels soft and restful. The slight yellow undertone makes the room feel inviting rather than plain.
You can use it on both walls and ceilings for a seamless look. Add light wood furniture or woven baskets for a cozy vibe, or try black metal accents to create some modern contrast.
Soft lighting, like table lamps or string lights, will bring out Dover White’s warmth even more in your bedroom. The color is gentle, making it easy to pair with soft pastels, muted blues, or natural linens.
Kitchens
Dover White shines in kitchens, especially if you want a bright but not stark-white look. It’s a favorite for both walls and cabinetry.
If you have white countertops or tile, Dover White cabinets keep your kitchen looking fresh without feeling too cold. The creaminess of the color pairs well with brass hardware, butcher block counters, or light grey backsplashes.
You could also use Dover White just for the upper cabinets and choose a deeper accent for lowers. This color is forgiving against fingerprints and smudges, which can matter a lot in a busy kitchen.
Bathrooms
Bathrooms with Dover White feel clean but still comfortable. If your bathroom has limited natural light, this color helps bounce what light you have, making the room look brighter.
You can pair the paint with crisp white trim or tile for a classic look or use matte black fixtures for a sleek, modern touch. Dover White also goes well with pale blue or soft green towels.
For a spa feeling, add wood accents like shelving or bamboo bath mats. The warmth of Dover White helps the space feel soothing instead of sterile.
Home Offices
If you want your home office to feel calm yet still energizing, Dover White is a solid option. The color helps reflect light, making your workspace brighter and more inviting.
Use it on the walls with deeper accent colors, like blue or charcoal, on cabinets or bookshelves. You could also add brass or gold-toned desk accessories for a bit of charm.
Dover White works with both modern and traditional office furniture. Plants and art stand out nicely against this gentle background.
Exteriors
Dover White is often used on house exteriors for a classic, timeless look. Its creamy undertones make your home look warm and inviting, without the harshness of a pure white paint.
It pairs well with darker roof shingles, black or navy shutters, and brick or stone details. If you want your exterior trim to pop, use a crisp true white next to Dover White siding.
This shade resists looking dingy, even after some exposure to sun, rain, or dust. It fits a wide range of home styles, from farmhouse to cottage.
Front Doors
Painting your front door Dover White gives you a subtle, elegant entryway. It’s a fresh option if you prefer a light front door but want something softer than bright white.
You can use Dover White with contrasting trim, black hardware, or colorful outdoor planters to help the door stand out. It works especially well if the exterior of your home is a darker color, so the door acts as a welcoming accent.
A Dover White front door pairs nicely with both modern and traditional porches. It also works year-round, never looking out of place with seasonal decorations.
Comparing Dover White by Sherwin Williams SW 6385 to Similar Colors
Dover White SW 6385 is a warm, creamy white that feels soft and inviting. It stands out from other whites due to its subtle yellow undertone, making each comparison special.
Dover White by Sherwin Williams SW 6385 vs Creamy SW 7012
Dover White and Creamy are both warm whites, but they are different in tone and depth.
Dover White SW 6385
- Undertone: Light yellow
- Look: Slightly more creamy and warm
- Best For: Cozy rooms needing extra warmth
Creamy SW 7012
- Undertone: Soft, neutral yellow
- Look: Less creamy, more balanced
- Best For: Spaces needing less yellow, but still warmth
When you put them side by side, Creamy feels more neutral. Dover White can show more yellow in rooms with lots of sunlight.
Dover White by Sherwin Williams SW 6385 vs Navajo White SW 6126
Dover White is lighter and has a subtle yellow tint, while Navajo White is a classic off-white with strong beige and yellow undertones.
Dover White SW 6385
- Feels soft, light, and fresh
- Works well if you want a gentle, inviting white
Navajo White SW 6126
- Shows more beige and warmth
- May appear darker in low light
Navajo White can make a room look more traditional. Dover White fits modern spaces where you want brightness without coolness.
Dover White by Sherwin Williams SW 6385 vs Antique White SW 6119
Antique White is noticeably deeper and has more beige compared to Dover White’s brighter character.
Dover White SW 6385
- Creamy with a touch of yellow
- Reflects more light and feels airy
Antique White SW 6119
- Strong beige and a slightly aged look
- Great for adding a cozy, vintage touch
In small rooms, Dover White keeps the space open. Antique White makes things feel more lived-in and traditional.
Dover White by Sherwin Williams SW 6385 vs Divine White SW 6105
Divine White is warmer and richer, so it may appear almost tan next to Dover White.
Dover White SW 6385
- Pale, creamy, and very light
- Suits spaces needing subtle warmth
Divine White SW 6105
- Closer to a very light beige
- Adds a bit more depth and richness
If you want a gentle off-white, Dover White is the safer pick. Choose Divine White when you want just a hint more color.
Dover White by Sherwin Williams SW 6385 vs White Duck SW 7010
White Duck is softer and more muted, lacking the yellow that gives Dover White its cheerfulness.
Dover White SW 6385
- Has a gentle, creamy tone
- Feels bright and welcoming
White Duck SW 7010
- Muted, with gray-beige undertones
- Feels calm and understated
White Duck is perfect when you want a subtle, quiet backdrop. Dover White is livelier, with more visual warmth.
Dover White by Sherwin Williams SW 6385 vs Classic Ivory SW 0051
Classic Ivory brings in more yellow and cream, while Dover White is softer and lighter.
Dover White SW 6385
- Balanced, not too strong or yellow
- Versatile for both modern and classic spaces
Classic Ivory SW 0051
- Brighter yellow and bolder warmth
- Creates a traditional, sunny look
If you want a creamy white that isn’t too bold, Dover White works well. Classic Ivory suits rooms where you want a golden, vintage vibe.
Complementary Colors to Dover White by Sherwin Williams SW 6385
Dover White SW 6385 works well with many shades, bringing out its warmth and softness. Pairing it with the right colors helps you create balanced rooms that feel cozy and relaxing.
Dover White by Sherwin Williams SW 6385 with Urbane Bronze SW 7048
Urbane Bronze SW 7048 is a deep, warm brownish-gray. When you pair it with Dover White, you get a modern and inviting contrast. The crisp white softens Urbane Bronze’s richness, making the dark color feel less heavy.
This color mix works great for trim, doors, or accent walls against Dover White walls. If you’re updating a living room, use Urbane Bronze for built-in shelves or a fireplace to make it stand out.
In rooms with natural wood or black fixtures, this combo adds depth without feeling too dark. The warmth in both colors keeps the space looking connected. You get a balanced, stylish look that feels modern but inviting.
Dover White by Sherwin Williams SW 6385 with Naval SW 6244
Naval SW 6244 is a classic navy blue. Its deep blue shade brings boldness and calm to any space. When paired with Dover White, the blue becomes more vivid, and the white feels even brighter.
This match is excellent for bedrooms or offices where you want a peaceful yet rich look. Try Naval on statement walls, cabinetry, or furniture, and use Dover White for the remaining walls and trim.
The combination works well with brass or gold hardware. Navy and white together can hint at a nautical style but still fit in modern and traditional homes. You get a clean contrast that feels timeless and fresh.
Dover White by Sherwin Williams SW 6385 with Sea Salt SW 6204
Sea Salt SW 6204 is a soft greenish-blue. It’s gentle, light, and calming, making it perfect for bedrooms, bathrooms, or nurseries. Dover White’s warmth makes Sea Salt’s cool tones shine.
If you’re after a relaxing feel, try Dover White for your main walls and Sea Salt for trims or smaller spaces. In bathrooms, Sea Salt cabinets or vanities look clean next to Dover White walls.
This duo also blends well with natural woods, wicker, and silver finishes. They both bring light to darker areas. You get a soft, spa-like glow that feels welcoming without being bold.
Dover White by Sherwin Williams SW 6385 with Retreat SW 6207
Retreat SW 6207 is a dusty, muted green with gray undertones. It works well when you want a relaxed, nature-inspired look. Dover White balances the deeper shade and brings out the green’s earthiness.
Consider using Retreat for accent walls, cabinets, or interior doors, with Dover White on the remaining walls or ceiling. This combination feels earthy and modern, especially with houseplants and black or bronze accents.
It’s a great choice for bedrooms, offices, or even open kitchens, where you want a grounded and peaceful space. The pairing keeps rooms feeling clean but interesting.
Dover White by Sherwin Williams SW 6385 with Stardew SW 9138
Stardew SW 9138 is a light, misty blue with gray tones. It brings a fresh, airy feel to a room. Dover White’s creamy look pairs well with Stardew’s coolness, keeping things lively but not stark.
Use Stardew for a bedroom accent wall, or in a home office to add interest without overpowering the space. Dover White walls and Stardew trim or shelving look crisp and clean.
This pair looks good with silver, chrome, or brushed nickel accents. Together, they help rooms feel larger, brighter, and more soothing. The contrast is gentle yet noticeable, perfect for modern spaces.
Dover White by Sherwin Williams SW 6385 with Pewter Green SW 6208
Pewter Green SW 6208 is a strong, moody green that has a hint of gray. It’s bold and dramatic on cabinets, built-in shelves, or an accent wall. Dover White’s light, creamy background makes Pewter Green really stand out.
This color combo suits kitchens, dining areas, or bathrooms that need both contrast and warmth. Pewter Green island cabinets or lower cabinets with Dover White uppers are especially popular.
Brass or matte black hardware adds interest and style. The mix balances dark and light, helping you achieve a cozy and up-to-date feel without the room looking too dark or busy.
Hi all! I’m Cora Benson, and I’ve been blogging about food, recipes and things that happen in my kitchen since 2019.