Drift of Mist vs First Star: Side-by-Side Color Guide
Standing in the paint aisle, staring at endless gray swatches, it’s easy to wonder if they really look any different.
The truth is, the wrong shade of gray can leave your room feeling flat, cold, or lifeless, instead of calm and inviting. Sherwin-Williams’ Drift of Mist vs. First Star is a common debate because both are light, popular neutrals.
To make a smart choice, it also helps to know the different Sherwin-Williams paint grades before comparing colors side by side.
In this comparison, I’ll show you how they differ in undertones, lighting, and style so you can confidently choose the shade that works best in your home.
Understanding Drift of Mist and First Star
Before comparing them directly, let’s look at each shade individually.
Drift of Mist (SW 9166)
Drift of Mist is often described as a warm greige. It’s light enough to brighten a room, but its subtle beige-green undertones prevent it from feeling sterile.
LRV: 69 reflects plenty of light, making rooms airy without being stark.
This shade works best in living spaces, bedrooms, and anywhere you want to create a comfortable atmosphere. It adapts well to both natural and artificial lighting, often shifting between warm beige and soft gray depending on the time of day.
First Star (SW 7646)
First Star is a cool gray with crisp blue-purple undertones. Unlike Drift of Mist, it stays consistently cool, which gives it a modern, clean feel.
LRV: 69 just as bright as Drift of Mist, but its undertones make it read sharper and cooler.
This shade is excellent for kitchens, bathrooms, and contemporary interiors. It pairs beautifully with cool whites, black accents, and modern finishes like chrome or stainless steel.
Quick Side-by-Side Comparison
Choosing between Drift of Mist and First Star starts with their core traits. Here’s a direct look at both.
| Attribute | Drift of Mist (SW 9166) | First Star (SW 7646) |
|---|---|---|
| Undertones | Soft greige with subtle beige/green hints | Cool gray with blue/purple undertones |
| Light Reflectance Value (LRV) | 69 – reflects light well | 69 – equally bright but reads cooler |
| Warm vs. Cool Temperature | Warm, cozy, inviting | Cool, crisp, modern |
| Best Rooms | Living rooms, bedrooms, family spaces | Kitchens, bathrooms, modern spaces |
| Trim & Coordinating Colors | Alabaster, creamy whites, warm wood tones | Pure White, Tricorn Black, cool grays |
This chart shows the basics. Let’s dig deeper into how these shades behave in real spaces.
Appearance in Different Lighting
Lighting influences paint more than most people realize. Both shades can shift dramatically depending on natural or artificial conditions in your home.
Drift of Mist in Natural Light
In south-facing rooms, Drift of Mist warms toward beige, creating a soft backdrop. In north-facing spaces, it cools toward gray, giving a muted look.
Artificial lighting also impacts it; warm bulbs highlight beige tones, while daylight LEDs emphasize its gray side. This makes it versatile but unpredictable, requiring samples before committing.
First Star in Natural Light
First Star holds a bright, cool quality that shifts with light direction. In south-facing rooms, it feels airy and slightly softened. In north-facing rooms, its blue undertones become stronger, sometimes appearing icy.
Warm bulbs reduce this sharpness, while daylight LEDs emphasize its crispness. These shifts make First Star ideal for modern spaces, though it requires careful testing in dim areas.
Best Uses and When to Avoid
Each shade has situations where it shines and others where it may fall short, depending on style and lighting.
Drift of Mist (SW 9166)
- Best Uses: Living rooms, bedrooms, transitional spaces, farmhouse or traditional interiors. Works beautifully with wood, taupes, and warm whites.
- When to Avoid: In very modern spaces, its warmth can clash with cool stone or high-gloss finishes. In dim rooms, it may look muddy.
First Star (SW 7646)
- Best Uses: Kitchens, bathrooms, modern living spaces, minimalist homes. Looks best with crisp whites, black trim, and sleek finishes.
- When to Avoid: In cozy family rooms or rustic homes with warm wood tones—it can feel too cold and stark.
How to Choose Between Drift of Mist and First Star
Both colors look similar on a paint chip, but real results depend on light, flooring, and furnishings in your space.
Testing Paint Samples the Right Way
Never rely on small chips. Paint large test swatches on different walls, then check them throughout the day. Morning sun, evening light, and bulbs all change the look.
Compare Drift of Mist and First Star side by side so you can see how each responds to natural and artificial lighting in your home.
Considering Room Lighting and Flooring
Light direction and flooring make a big difference. Drift of Mist can soften cool floors or northern light, keeping a balanced look.
First Star works better with warm hardwood or southern exposure, where its crisp tone offers clean contrast. Always compare both shades in the actual conditions of your room before deciding.
Matching with Furniture and Decor
Look closely at your décor. If your home has warm textures like rattan, earthy fabrics, or rustic wood, Drift of Mist blends beautifully.
For homes with metal, glass, or gray-toned upholstery, First Star gives a sharper edge. Matching wall colors to existing furniture ensures the room feels cohesive instead of clashing with what you already own.
Alternatives to Consider
If Drift of Mist or First Star doesn’t fit, these popular alternatives offer balanced tones that may suit your space.
| Paint Color | Description | LRV | Undertone |
|---|---|---|---|
| Drift of Mist | Warm greige, soft neutral | 69 | Subtle beige-green undertones |
| First Star | Light blue-gray, cool-toned | 69 | Cool blue-green undertones |
| Agreeable Gray | Balanced greige, warm-neutral | 60 | Warm, green undertones |
| Crushed Ice | Light gray, subtle neutral | ~68* | Slightly cool, neutral |
| Repose Gray | Deeper greige, soft tone | 58 | Warm, subtle beige undertones |
These alternatives give you more flexibility, especially if you want a balance between warmth and coolness or prefer brand crossovers.
Care and Maintenance Tips
Once you’ve chosen your paint color, proper care ensures it stays fresh.
- Regular Care: Dust walls monthly with a microfiber cloth.
- Cleaning Marks: Remove scuffs quickly with a soft sponge and mild soap.
- Avoid Yellowing: Keep rooms ventilated and avoid harsh cleaners.
- Touch-Ups: Repaint high-traffic areas every 18–24 months to maintain an even finish.
- Keep Records: Save your exact color name and finish for future touch-ups.
Conclusion
Choosing between Drift of Mist vs. First Star comes down to the feeling you want in your home. Drift of Mist brings warmth and softness, while First Star keeps things cool and modern.
By testing them in your own light and with your furniture, you’ll see which one creates the right atmosphere. Both are beautiful choices; you just need the one that matches your style.
Keep finding my other paint color guides for more tips and ideas before you make your final decision.
