As a designer, colour is one of the most exciting components to creating stunning images. The start of a new year is the perfect time to take a look at what trends are occurring in our industry and further afield.

Pastel Pinks and Blues
For those of you who don’t know…Pantone Incorporated, is the world-renowned authority on colour and provider of colour systems and leading technology for the selection and accurate communication of colour across a variety of industries. The PANTONE® name is known worldwide as the standard language for colour communication from designer to manufacturer to retailer to customer. For the first time Pantone introduces two shades, Rose Quartz and Serenity as the PANTONE Color of the Year 2016. As described by Pantone© ‘Rose Quartz is a persuasive yet gentle tone that conveys compassion and a sense of composure. Serenity is weightless and airy, like the expanse of the blue sky above us, bringing feelings of respite and relaxation even in turbulent times.’

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Smokey Greys
Fiona Parry-Jones, creative director at Von Haus Design Studio (Haymes) predicts a subdued palette for the new year. “Two colours I think will get noticed a lot in 2016 are the more earthy pastels like smoky greys and peachy pinks that reference natural and chalky minerals,” she says.

If you love grey and white marble then you will be glad to hear it will still be a big hit in 2016. Parry-Jones suggests adding brass to the look to create a harmonious space. “Brass will be more popular this year to create the wow factor.”

Simply White
Benjamin Moore Paints named Simply White their Colour of the year. Personally I am a big fan of white in graphic design, even though most of our clients are scared by white space. It provides a clean background, provides space for elements to breathe and allows you to emphasise objects or headings. It helps create professional, sophisticated and elegant designs.

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Rose Golds
We are still seeing hints of metallics. Rose Gold is the perfect partner with the pastel pinks and blues and creates a subtle glamour.