There is reason to be optimistic at year's end, at least in the world of color. Pantone, the global color authority, released its fall '09 forecast and it shows a warmer palette than last year's blue and purple hues.
Thoughtful hope and calm restraint mark the 2009 year-end color palette from Pantone. This fall, optimism is in with the shade Honey Yellow offering a warm, sunny variation on the 2009 color of the year - Mimosa. Yellow often denotes happiness and hope. A yellow ribbon tied around a tree welcomes loved ones home while a yellow rose may symbolize joy and friendship. Although yellow is a primary color, it often works best as a companion shade, perking up purple or brightening gray. So look for yellow used primarily as an accent color with dark or neutral palettes.
Honey Yellow hints at a sunny future, while other colors in the forecast range from quiet neutrals to bright pops of teal and rose. Sustainability remains a key trend so other popular colors include Warm Olive and Nomad (a gray beige). While the '09 palette is more subdued and thoughtful than last year's colors, it does include a patriotic American Beauty Red and Purple Heart that offers a beautiful contrast to Honey Yellow. And yes, there is a new black - Iron is a less severe slate shade that grounds color and works well with everything in the palette.
Other trends to look for this fall and winter include Pastiche, a collection of unexpected colors and styles that has been influenced by Japanese anime. Lori Ryan, an MVP Art Director and resident scrapbooker says, 'I like to see what colors and trends are hot right now. But they’re not the strongest influence in our design. Instead, we look at the tone and client message to select colors and styles.'
Regardless of trends, fall and winter promise to be an exciting time in the world of design - with so many beautiful colors to choose from.
