In its April 2009 issue, Home Accents Today featured color marketers’ forecasts for 2010, which all point to a year where color will be an instrumental vehicle that will help consumers cope with the challenges posed by the economic climate and its effects on our lifestyles and psyches. Four broadly-categorized upcoming color trends have been identified:
A Neutral Palette – In times of great flux, few things are more reassuring than a serene, calming color palette. In 2010, neutrals receive an updated interpretation beyond the expected creams, tans, khakis and earth tones. Gray is heavily featured as a “new neutral”, and is interpreted with varying tonalities of olive green, silver, taupe, deep charcoal, brown, blue and pinkish beige with shimmer-like finishes.
The Color of Escapism– Global Destinations inspire luxurious and exotic colors that invite us to take a mental or physical break from the here and now as an alternative coping mechanism. Some countries/cultures that are expected to contribute significantly to this trend are: Russia, Dubai & Africa. The colors represented will be luxurious and rich with sophisticated depth. Metals, shimmer and translucency will dominate the color schemes represented by tones of gold, umber, plum, teal blue, royal purple and crimson reds. Spicy hues inspired by exotic flavors such as masala & curry mix with nature-inspired colors of the wild African desert and savannah.
Blissfully Young & Radical– A more vibrant collection of colors that – although radically contradictory to the other color trends – will coexist with them to provide a visual distraction and enticement for consumers to buy, and get out of their “frugalista” funk! Colors in this arena will be passionate, ingenious, manic, fun and portrayed in wild graphic designs and textures.
Mother Earth’s Embrace – Not surprisingly, the rise in eco-friendly consumer behavior, increased consumption of organic and “whole” foods has also given rise to a new color palette that will dominate in the 2010 product season. Organic colors will not be limited to earthy tones, but rather will be inspired by vibrant, fragrant and delicious-tasting treats found at the local farmer’s market.
So, get ready to enjoy a parade of product colors, textures and patterns aimed at lifting our spirits, and getting us back on the “shopping block”!
Fragrance Insights 
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