Fall 2007

Tracking Trends: 2008 By Patricia Call

Ravishing Reds

Reds run the spectrum from spicy adobe, to American-flag red, and onto a purple-infused red with Latin, European, and Asian influences. These softer reds are soothing. Adobe, a paprika-brown, is forecast for all home products and American flag red for electronics.

Gorgeous Greys

Deep grey is full-bodied with tones of green or blue. The importance of sustainability brings this color into the forecast. Sustainability stresses the importance of long-lasting, environmentally sound, energy-efficient products that hold and radiate heat. Think natural slate and New York blue stone: they are the inspiration for metal products, stone products, textiles, electronics, lighting, and cookware.

Bowled over by Blue

For greyed navy think cosmic, think tech. Navy takes on a deep and futuristic life of its own.

True Turquoise

Turquoise is clear, vibrant, and uninterrupted by any other over/undertones. It is rich and springs from the veins of our natural world. Purchase it on glass or metal to emphasize its distinctiveness. Traditional turquoise jewelry evolves with contemporary styling.

Natural Evolution

It’s called biomimicry. Products take their cues from the natural world. Use these shapes in clever and unexpected ways, to draw in customers.

Flirtatious Ferns

They shake and sway. Ferns are the feathers of the plant world. This pattern offers a natural arabesque on glass, textiles, metal, and paper.

Beautiful Birds

Graceful birds and insects appeal to our desire for freedom and flight. Think inventively when you purchase these designs, and your products will fly off the shelves.

Creative Cutouts

Trendy cutouts lend an element of peek-a-boo fun and mystery. Look for filigree patterns and cutwork on a wide array of products for ’08.

Ethnic Elegance

Globalization sure has its perks. A greater demand for products with an ethnic touch is forecasted.

A Splash of Sparkle

Sparkle livens up the everyday. A dash of glamor is to grace many products in the new year.

Patricia Call

Call is a chairholder and sits on the Board of Directors of the Color Marketing Group, an international non-profit organization based in Alexandria, VA, devoted to the effective marketing of color. Call is also a color and trends forecaster and consultant. She is a member of the American Society of Interior Designers.