Colour trends reflect what is happening in the world around us. We use colour to express in design what we want to see and feel in reaction to the issues we face globally.

Pantone –the largest and most recognised colour authority world wide–releases colour predictions every year that the fashion, cosmetics and interior design world hungrily devour. Historically, the fashion world begins these colour trends, and interiors follow suit. The colour of the year for 2011 is Pantone’s Honeysuckle #18-2120.

Colour of the Year 2011: Honeysuckle

The pinkish-red of honeysuckle revives the mood after the challenges we faced in the previous year, creating a hopeful, flirtatious feeling.

Features from Pantone’s 2011 Spring collection, shown below, offer peaceful renewals from nature in Peapod, Silver Peony, Beeswax, Russet, Lavender and Regatta.

2012 Colour Trends

Pantone’s colour predictions for 2012 include a bold mixture of saturated blues and violets, camel colours, earthy tones, warm olives, uplifting rose colours, dusty maroons and pinks.

Indigo Effects

This palette is rich, full bodied and royal and includes Pantone colours in Quarry, Indigo, Celestial, Elmwood, Royal Blue, Blue Indigo, Maroon, Woodrose and Pale Gold.

Subtleties

This palette is earthly, faded and dusty and includes Pantone colours in Leek Green, Fair Green, Stonewash, Brick Red, Coral Haze, Beryl Green, Lead, Nutmeg and Faded Rose.