A Forecast Full of Color

credits: top 2: LoveFromGinger.com; bottom: deathtothestockphoto.com

Since our blogs are so easy to update (well technically!) I think it’s imperative that they reflect current trends so as to appear fresh and professional. Keeping up to date on trends is an important part of any design.

Of course some thought has to go into why you select a certain trend over another, but it’s a good idea to keep abreast of what’s going on. Follow Pantone or trend blogs. Search Popular pins on Pinterest. I make it a point to create a new Design Trend Pinterest board each time I discover a new one.

In continuation of the color theme that’s been happening on DYOB, today we have a special guest talking to us about color trends and forecasting! I find it fascinating that all of our trends are very carefully planned way in advance by a select few, don’t you?

I’m pleased to introduce to you Laura Lash Brzegowy! Take it away Laura…

As a color consultant, it is critical to stay abreast of the latest color trends. While not everyone chooses to incorporate them, understanding the trends allows us to create pleasing interpretations in both our homes and businesses. But, how are the trends established, which industries do they influence and what colors can be expected during 2014?

Forecasting Way in Advance

Before any color is heralded, it has been thoroughly vetted by color experts around the world. Arguably the most influential group of color experts is Color Marketing Group or CMG. Over 1,000 CMG color industry professionals meet annually to discuss noted color influences ranging from social issues and the economy to popular movies, runway trends and world travel.

From these discussions a color palette is developed showcasing the shades that will be trending two years in the future. For example, this year’s meeting to be held in Orlando, Florida, will predict the colors we’ll see most often in 2016. Knowing what colors will be popular two years in advance is important to industries as diverse as paint, fashion, transportation, entertainment, and consumer goods. Popular color sells, therefore successful product launches depend on accurate color forecasts.

The Industries Take Note

Many companies take cues from CMG’s predictions and create their own take on the trends as it pertains to their industries. Two of the most notable companies to do so are Pantone and Benjamin Moore. Pantone’s colors influence everything from printed media, to fashion, cosmetics and household goods, while Benjamin Moore inspires the most chic shades for walls.

As one would expect, there are similarities in both companies’ 2014 offerings, my favorite being the multiple shades of blue each is presenting. Ranging from pastel to vibrant or deep, I’m quite positive that America’s favorite color will be widely available in home decor showrooms this year.

Benjamin Moore 2014 blues

Color Drives Emotion or Vice Versa?

Noticeably absent from both the Pantone and Benjamin Moore palettes are gray or greige. This omission cleared the way for a more cheerful, whimsical approach to color that will be appreciated by those desiring a livelier atmosphere than gray provides.

Pantone’s Color Institute Executive Director, Leatrice Eiseman, states, “This season, consumers are looking for a state of thoughtful, emotional and artistic equilibrium. While this need for stability is reflected in the composition of the palette, the inherent versatility of the individual colors allows for experimentation with new looks and color combinations.” To that effect, a combination of pretty pastels and fun bright shades were combined to create color balance.

Pantone’s Color of the Year, “Radiant Orchid,” a blend of lilac and fuchsia, is a fresh take on a color that’s generally under used. For those wishing to experiment with this shade, try accenting it with dark chocolate, wine, charcoal, teal or persimmon for stunning results.

Pantone’s color picks for spring 2014

A Breath of Fresh Air

Benjamin Moore believes this will be the year of “A Breath of Fresh Air,” both literally and figuratively. Headlining their palette is a soothing spa like blue of the same name which dictates softening our approach to color. Because this ethereal color is found in nature and so easily combined with other shades, the color experts at Benjamin Moore suggest that it serves as a “new neutral.”

Grown up versions of pastel blue, green, pink and lilac are prominent throughout the 2014 collection, none of which hint of cotton candy. Also included are several nicely edited shades of navy, grape and teal which work beautifully as dramatic room colors or as a single accent wall.

According to Ellen O’Neill, Benjamin Moore’s Creative Director, “Our Color of the Year and Color Trends 2014 palette is a direct result of the fresh color cues and pastel trends we’ve seen throughout the home furnishing, fashion and even pop culture landscape.” For those interested in the collection, all 23 shades work harmoniously with one another taking away some of the fear involved with selecting more than just one.

I plan on adding feminine touches of “Radiant Orchid” to my bedroom, and thanks to CMG’s forecasts I know I’ll have no trouble finding accessories to fit the bill. I’ll also keep in mind that all of the pretty colored objects lining my favorite store’s shelves were forecast to entice me into making new purchases and re-paint my home two years before I even walked in the door.

Now that you know which colors will be the trendiest of 2014, which are YOU most excited to incorporate into your home, blog or business?

About Laura Lash Brzegowy
Laura is a color consultant in Bloomington, Indiana that enjoys making the world a more beautiful place one color at a time. Laura consults with home and business owners alike to ensure that not only do their colors work perfectly with their finishes but also conveys their personality. Laura’s natural gift with color keeps her in high demand with both local and virtual clients.

You can contact Laura at: inpursuitofcolor.wordpress.com or inpursuitofcolorbylaura@gmail.com.