Backdrop and Madewell Just Created an Exclusive New Paint Color, and It’s the Most Perfect Neutral Hue

published Jan 25, 2022

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In the cool-brand coupling I never knew I needed, Backdrop and Madewell just teamed up to create an exclusive new paint shade and corresponding clothing collection — both essentially the stuff of floor-to-ceiling and head-to-toe dreams.

This limited-edition collab stars the latest addition to Backdrop’s well-curated color portfolio, a pretty warm taupe hue dubbed Studio Hours. Touting an earthy, inviting, and slightly pink pigmentation, it’s a standout neutral that’s perfect for statement walls, all-over room refreshes, and any paint project in between. You can stock up on full or half-gallon sizes with Standard or Semi-Gloss finishes, plus the eco-friendly brand’s recently-launched Cabinet and Door paint options. Modern kitchen update, anyone?

As the name implies, Studio Hours draws full inspiration from artists, both on the creative and clothing fronts. The latter is where Madewell comes in, adapting Backdrop’s new hue into a line of matching workwear-inspired apparel and accessories. Think chore coats, overalls, sweatshirts, sneakers, and more — all equally stylish (it is Madewell, after all) and everyday-appropriate. That’s right, you don’t need a roll-up-your-sleeves DIY on the docket just to pull off these pieces — a premise Backdrop originally popularized with their versatile wear-anywhere Painter’s Shirt.

“We love joining forces with new and unexpected creative partners,” Natalie Ebel, Backdrop’s co-founder, added of the collab. “With Studio Hours, it’s been especially exciting to translate our perspective as a design brand into the fashion space with Madewell. The collection combines our take on a modern, new color with the silhouettes of classic workwear while celebrating the artistic process and the power of color as a means of transformation, from home design to apparel.”

Beginning today, Studio Hours is currently available to shop on both the Madewell and Backdrop sites. Prices start at $45 for the Green-certified paint and $14.50 for the clothing collection, with sizes ranging from XXS to XXL. And because I adore these two lifestyle labels — and consequently, this collab — dearly, I also pulled some of my favorite picks below. Even if you’re not ready to make an interior color commitment, this one-of-a-kind hue is really just too good to miss.

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Madewell x Backdrop Studio Hours Garment-Dyed Overalls

Madewell

$148.00

Am I currently wearing these overalls as I write this? Yes. Could I love them more? Definitely not. I was lucky enough to get my hands on this garment-dyed pair prior to the launch and, not only do they fit perfectly, but they also make me feel like my best, coolest, comfiest self. Plus, they’re super easy to style as a quick throw-on-and-go piece. If you’ve been looking for a sign to hop on the (pretty-hued) overalls bandwagon, this is it.

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2 / 6

Madewell x Backdrop Studio Hours Canvas Camden Tote Bag

Madewell

$78.00

From weekender bag to commuting tote to art supplies carry-all, this durable canvas creation can do (and stash) it all. There’s no skimping on practicality here, with a removable crossbody strap, two top handles, and external compartments — at less than $80, NBD. I’d be remiss not to mention the color, too, with the Studio Hours shade giving this bag an especially evergreen feel (read: SO much year-round use).

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3 / 6

Madewell x Backdrop Unisex Studio Hours Hoodie Sweatshirt

Madewell

$98.00

A new iteration of Backdrop’s classic white Painter’s Shirt, this unisex hoodie is made from Madewell’s (Re)sourced recycled cotton terry. It’s equal parts simple, stylish, and cozy with a relaxed, oversized fit. You can get the full Studio Hours look and layer this over the collection’s matching t-shirt, too.

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4 / 6

Madewell x Backdrop Court Sneakers in Studio Hours

Madewell

$68.00

Why yes, Studio Hours even comes in footwear form, ICYWW. The collab’s suede sneakers feature Madewell’s super-supportive Cloudlift insoles as part their MWL line. . . so you could say these shoes really are made for walkin.’ Available in sizes 5 to 12, the pair has major wear-on-repeat potential — including during a future Studio Hours paint project, just saying.

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5 / 6

Madewell x Backdrop Studio Hours Oversized Chore Jacket

Madewell

$135.00

Never underestimate the power of a good chore jacket — especially one with a unique-to-Madewell shade. And can we talk about those massive pockets!? It’ll work well on top of anything (promise) but you'll get style bonus points if you go monochromatic with the matching shoes or overalls.

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Madewell x Backdrop Studio Hours Gallon

Backdrop

$69.00

Last but not least, the modern-meets-classic Studio Hours paint itself (please clap). Painting may not be on your radar at the moment — which is totally fine — but if you’re understandably smitten with this color, you can actually order a $3 peel-and-stick swatch from Backdrop to see how it looks IRL. If you’re ready to dive in paintbrush first, I can also attest to the brand’s impressive convenience and guidance after using their products on my bedroom walls last fall. Basically, consider this your nudge to make that TikTok reno you keep revisiting an at-home reality.

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