Colour of the Season: Maple Russet
The warm, grounded shade that speaks of quiet confidence for Autumn.
Why Maple Russet?
Maple Russet (#793327) is the kind of colour that feels like home.
For me it reminds me of the tile on our roof and the flecks in the bricks of our home growing up. I am looking forward to seeing it again this Easter weekend.
It’s deep, earthy, and quietly bold — like warm leather, baked clay from my last pottery class, or the final burst of autumn leaves before winter sets in. For anyone with an Autumn Colour Type, Maple Russet brings a sense of strength and warmth, grounding any outfit in richness.
This is a colour that says, “I know who I am” — quietly. It’s brings warmth to a wardrobe and is perfect for those who want their handmade garments to feel both welcoming and self-assured.
What Makes Maple Russet So Special?
Maple Russet is more versatile than you might think. It’s not just “brown”—it has red undertones that give it a quiet intensity. It’s warm without being overpowering, and rich without stealing the show.
It pairs beautifully with burnt oranges, mustard yellows, sage greens, and soft creams. You can also contrast it with navy or deep teal to add depth and interest. In short, it’s the backbone of an autumn wardrobe I believe.
Scroll to bottom for download form. It includes colour palettes and 5 of the common pattern types for men.
Ideal Fabrics for Maple Russet
This colour comes into it's own in natural fibres with texture or weight.
- Linen – This fibre texture emphasises the earthy warmth of the colour.
- Lightweight Cotton Twill – Durable, perfect for a shirt or relaxed trousers.
- Cotton Sateen – Adds polish and depth for special occasions.
- Dogwood Denim – Great for hard-wearing pieces like over-shirts or chore jackets.
It also works beautifully in prints—florals, dots, plaids or conversational motifs that incorporate other colours from the Autumn palette.
This is lighter than the Maple Russet but you get the idea of it in Linen. Beautiful.
4 Patterns to Sew in Maple Russet
This rich tone is an easy way to give handmade garments a sense of understated luxury. Here are four men’s patterns from the shop that suit it perfectly:
- Camp Collar Shirt – A classic made modern in a warm autumn tone. I love this in plain light weight linen. Style with navy or ecru trousers.
- Boxer Shorts – A surprise winner. This colour makes them feel thoughtful and personal. This is great in a patterned cotton.
- The Robe – Relaxed and confident. Maple Russet adds an earthy richness to everyday comfort. Again plain in colour but in a mid-weight linen.
- Lounge Pants – Whether at home or styled for casual wear, they’ll become a staple. These are fun in a Hickory or candy stripe in linen or cotton.
Use them individually or coordinate as part of a warm-toned capsule.
FAQs
1. Is Maple Russet too dark for everyday wear?
Not at all. Maple Russet is rich, earthy, and incredibly wearable, especially for those with an "Autumn Colour Type". It adds depth without being overpowering, and it’s an easy way to bring sophistication to casual garments.
2. Can men pull off a rusty red-brown like this?
Yes. Maple Russet works beautifully in menswear because it communicates strength, warmth, and grounded style. It’s flattering on warm or neutral undertones, and it pairs well with classic menswear neutrals like olive, tan, cream, and navy.
3. What fabrics look best in this colour?
This colour shines in natural fibres that have a bit of texture or weight, such as:
- Linen
- Lightweight Twill
- Cotton Sateen
- Dogwood Denim
- Corduroy or Velvet for cooler months
Avoid overly crisp fabrics — Maple Russet looks best when the fabric echoes its earthy tone.
4. Is Maple Russet just for autumn makes?
While it’s ideal for autumn, it can absolutely be worn year-round, especially if the person’s colour type suits warm, rich tones. It transitions well into winter when paired with deep navy or charcoal, and looks great with creamy neutrals in spring.
5. How do I use this colour in a capsule wardrobe?
Maple Russet is a perfect base or accent in a 5-colour capsule. Use it as a dominant garment (like a jacket or pants) or as a supporting piece (like jacket lining or shirt). In either role, it adds richness and balance.
6. I don’t have warm colouring—can I still use Maple Russet?
Possibly, yes—but it depends on your Colour Type. If you’re cooler or more muted, this colour may feel heavy or overpowering. That’s why The Fabric Formula is so helpful. It helps you find your best versions of trending colours (or swap them for something that suits you better).
7. Is this a good colour for sewing gifts?
Definitely. It’s a safe and stylish choice for men with warm or neutral undertones. If you’re unsure of the recipient’s Colour Type, Maple Russet tends to work well for those who wear earthy tones, browns, and olive greens naturally.
8. Can I sew all four patterns in this colour, or is that too much?
You can — especially if you use different textures or fabric types across garments (e.g., sateen for the boxer shorts, twill for pants, linen for a shirt). Alternatively, mix Maple Russet with colours from the free Autumn Palette download to create variety within the capsule.
Not Sure If Maple Russet Suits You?
That’s where The Fabric Formula comes in.
It’s an interactive guide designed to help you find your Colour Type and match current trend colours (like Maple Russet) to the version that suits you best. Whether you’re sewing for yourself or someone else, this tool removes the guesswork. I am so excited to make this available to you. It is a game changer. Feel competent with colour.
Because when colour and confidence align, sewing becomes even more satisfying.
Discover Your Colour Type with The Fabric Formula
