The KitchenAid Blue Willow and Cobalt Blue colors offer two distinct aesthetic directions for the brand's iconic appliances. Blue Willow features a light blue color with an intricate white pattern inspired by vintage Chinese porcelain, creating a classic, decorative look. Cobalt Blue is a deep, solid, and vibrant hue that makes a bold, modern statement.
Here's a detailed comparison to help you choose the right shade of blue for your kitchen style.
KitchenAid Blue Willow
Blue Willow is a special edition color scheme designed to evoke the timeless appeal of classic blue and white porcelain. With delicate motifs and a soft, light blue background, it transforms a functional appliance into a decorative centerpiece. This color is perfect for those who want their stand mixer or appliance to add a touch of vintage charm and elegance to their kitchen.
- What it is: A light blue color option featuring an intricate, repeating white pattern inspired by traditional dinnerware.
- Key features: Detailed, decorative visual pattern, light blue base color, vintage aesthetic. Best known on the Artisan Series 5 Quart Tilt-Head Stand Mixer.
- Price: Generally priced in line with other standard appliance colors, with stand mixers starting around $300-$450, depending on the model.
- Style: Traditional, vintage, farmhouse, cottage core, and classic. It acts as a nostalgic statement piece.
- Materials/Construction: The pattern is applied over the same high-quality die-cast metal body and durable enamel finish found on all KitchenAid appliances, ensuring it's resistant to scratches and stains.
- Pros: Unique and eye-catching patterned design. Lends a timeless, elegant air to the kitchen countertop. Blends beautifully with neutral or traditional decor. Hides smudges better than darker, solid colors.
- Cons: The pattern may be too detailed for modern or minimalist kitchens. Less versatile for future kitchen redesigns compared to a solid color.
Blue Willow is intended for those who appreciate ornate details and want an appliance that doubles as a piece of classic decor.
Shop this product: kitchenaid.com/colors
KitchenAid Cobalt Blue
Cobalt Blue is one of KitchenAid's long-standing signature solid colors, known for its deep, rich, and vibrant tone. It's a confident and versatile choice that provides a powerful pop of color without being overpowering. This shade has been a favorite for years because it works well in a wide range of kitchen designs, from ultra-modern to transitional.
- What it is: A solid, deep, cool-toned blue with a high-gloss finish.
- Key features: Rich and intense hue, uniform, sleek appearance, high-gloss, reflective surface. Available across a wide range of appliances.
- Price: Standard pricing for most KitchenAid appliances, with mixers typically starting around $300.
- Style: Modern, contemporary, eclectic, and transitional. It serves as a bold accent color.
- Materials/Construction: The color is achieved with a durable, high-gloss enamel coating over the standard die-cast metal body, ensuring the same quality and longevity as any other color.
- Pros: A bold, striking color that adds personality. Solid color is highly versatile and fits many decor styles. Classic and timeless in a modern way. Coordinates easily with other bold or neutral colors.
- Cons: The dark, glossy surface can show fingerprints and smudges more easily. It might feel too intense for kitchens designed around very soft, muted pastels.
Cobalt Blue is great for the home cook who wants their appliance to be a vibrant focal point in a modern or eclectic kitchen space.
Shop this product: kitchenaid.com/colors
KitchenAid Blue Willow vs. Cobalt Blue Comparison
Style & Aesthetic
The primary difference between these two options is purely stylistic. KitchenAid's Blue Willow is a decorative, patterned finish that invokes a sense of nostalgia. Its intricate design makes the appliance a gentle, vintage piece that complements traditional, farmhouse, or cottage-style kitchens. It feels quiet and classic, much like a piece of inherited china.
In contrast, KitchenAid's Cobalt Blue offers a bold, modern, and high-impact look. It’s a solid, uniform color that serves as a powerful accent in contemporary, minimalist, or eclectic kitchens. Its deep hue is assertive and simple, designed to be a vibrant splash of color rather than a decorative pattern. If Blue Willow whispers "vintage elegance," Cobalt Blue proclaims "modern confidence."
Quality & Durability
When it comes to the build quality, materials, and durability of the finish, both colors are identical. KitchenAid applies both Blue Willow and Cobalt Blue as a durable, high-gloss enamel coating over the standard die-cast metal body of their appliances. Neither color is more prone to chipping, scratching, or fading than the other under normal household use. Your choice will not impact the performance or lifespan of the appliance, and both come with the same warranty.
Price & Value
Blue Willow and Cobalt Blue are both considered standard color options and do not typically carry a premium price tag. The cost of a stand mixer or other appliance will depend on the model (e.g., Artisan, Classic Plus) rather than the color. From a value perspective, both are equal, the "better" value depends entirely on which aesthetic you prefer and will enjoy in your home for years to come.
Which One Should You Choose?
Both Blue Willow and Cobalt Blue are excellent choices, but they are tailored to completely different tastes.
Choose the Blue Willow if:
- Your kitchen has a traditional, farmhouse, or cottage-style aesthetic.
- You appreciate vintage patterns and classic design elements.
- You want your appliance to be a decorative piece rather than just a pop of solid color.
- You prefer a lighter color palette and softer visual accents.
Choose the Cobalt Blue if:
- You have a modern, minimalist, or eclectic kitchen design.
- You love bold, saturated colors and want your appliance to be a statement piece.
- You prefer the versatility of a solid color that can adapt to changing decor.
- Your kitchen features other primary colors or crisp, white finishes.
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the main difference between KitchenAid Blue Willow and Cobalt Blue?
The main difference is aesthetics. Blue Willow is a light blue with a white, intricate pattern, giving it a vintage look. Cobalt Blue is a solid, deep, and dark blue with a modern, bold feel.
Do Blue Willow and Cobalt Blue appliances cost more?
No, both are typically priced in the standard color range for KitchenAid stand mixers and other appliances. The price is determined by the appliance model, not the color.
Is the pattern on Blue Willow durable?
Yes. The patterned finish on the Blue Willow models is applied using the same durable enamel process as solid colors. It is designed to resist scratches and peeling with regular use and cleaning.
Which color is more popular?
Cobalt Blue has been a long-standing popular color in KitchenAid's lineup due to its timeless versatility and bold look. Blue Willow is more of a niche, stylistic choice that appeals to those with a specific interest in traditional or farmhouse designs.
How do I clean my Blue Willow or Cobalt Blue appliance?
You can clean both the same way. Wipe the exterior with a soft, damp cloth. Avoid using abrasive sponges or harsh chemical cleaners, which can dull the glossy finish over time.
Does Blue Willow match traditional Blue Willow china?
The design is heavily inspired by classic Blue Willow porcelain patterns, so it shares the same aesthetic spirit. However, it's not designed to be an exact pattern and color match to any specific brand of dinnerware.
Will Cobalt Blue fade over time with sun exposure?
KitchenAid's enamel finish is very durable and formulated to be resistant to fading. With typical indoor kitchen use, you should not expect the color to lose its vibrancy.
Are these colors available for all KitchenAid appliances?
Availability varies by product. Both colors are most prominently featured on the stand mixers, especially the Artisan Series. Always check the official KitchenAid website for the most up-to-date availability on other appliances like blenders or food processors.
At Interior Insider, we're dedicated to curating the best in home decor, interior design, and home essentials to help you discover brands we think you'll love. Every brand we feature is independently selected by our editorial team based on quality, design, and craftsmanship. When you make a purchase through our links, Interior Insider may earn a commission - which helps support our small team and allows us to continue bringing you inspiration and expert advice for creating your perfect space.
Looking for more inspiration? Explore our curated design guides to find your next favorite piece.
