The color is slightly lighter than the picture but still very pretty. It's not quite a navy but not quite a teal. The rug is definitely softer than I expected (+ points) but is on the thinner side of rugs, but still good for the price. I'm glad we went with this size and not the 6x9 from another rug option. I would recommend the rug pad as well as it makes it a little more comfy and keeps it from slipping on our floors. Doggy approved as well!