In the film ‘The Devil Wears Prada’, lead character Andy Sachs attends a meeting of fashion power people, who discuss the “personalities” of several similar-looking belts, making Andy laugh to herself. Andy’s boss, Miranda Priestly, states that Cerulean blue worked its way from Karl Lagerfeld’s catwalk collection to other designers, appearing eventually in mainstream chain and High Street stores. Miranda then comments “You are wearing an outfit which you think you have put together yourself, but in fact it was selected and determined for you by the people in this very room several years ago.”

It’s always exciting at this time of year when international colour forecasting teams publish their predictions for the upcoming seasons. These forecasts are picked up and interpreted by fabric and textile designers, furniture makers and paint companies.

Colour forecasters are influenced by economic and social factors when they predict change. This year, these factors reflect the upheaval arising from COVID-19, especially after spending so much time indoors due to lockdowns. With restrictions lifting, we look forward to more freedom of movement.

For colour forecasters, a focus on the natural environment leads their conversations and decision-making. We’re seeing wallpapers and upholstery fabrics featuring animal prints and foliage, such as brightly-coloured bird feathers or palm leaves.

The increased popularity of indoor plants is transitioning now into textile and wall colours. Homeware designers are expanding this, with cane and rattan baskets, furniture and light fittings.

This season, Dulux’s colour forecasters are selecting earthy neutral colours, receding into the background, with brighter colours used in contrast. Think back to the colours of the 1980s, such as coral, lemon, and ocean blue, bringing in a strong summer beach theme. Marble is still being used, but metallic finishes are being dulled down, rather than being shiny and sparkling.

These colours are about a bright sense of adventure, encouraging positive thoughts and creating reassuring spaces after the lockdown restrictions.

Published in the October 2021 Issue of The Trentham Trumpet