The Write Micro Trends

Strutting its Stuff

“Birds as a design theme have been [soaring] for a while, and they are still flying high. From songbirds to owls to peacocks (a breakout design trend to watch in 2011), birds add a natural touch to classic and contemporary styles.”
—Debra Gold

Around the World

“World style, the mixing of patterns and design motifs from around the globe, has gone from exotic to mainstream. In the stationery industry, Japanese-themed designs, classic Asian motifs and Chinoiserie; as well as the intricate repeating patterns of Morocco have been used as design inspirations, and reinvented with fresh color treatments.”
—Debra Gold

Vintage Value

“Vintage is back. We’re seeing a lot of classic designs with an 1800s and early 1900s feel, such as with calligraphy and flourishes. It may be this economic era, but nostalgia is a leading force of trends now.”
—Holly Brettschneider

Nuts about Squirrels

“I’m starting to see a lot of squirrels. They seem to be the new owls.”
—Meryl Hooker

Flighty Birds

“Hummingbirds are huge, definitely an upswing trend. I’m also seeing bees and ladybugs, but not as many butterflies.”
—Patti Stracher

Fashion Forward

“Paper is inspired by the colors of fashion. There is no separation between what is happening on Paris runways and Hollywood red carpets and what we are wearing, how we are decorating our homes, and what stationery products we buy. Judging from fashion trends right now, our future looks bright, as rich, vibrant hues – lively greens of all shades, turquoise, apricot, sunshine yellow, violet—add a cheerful accent to our lives. This year, Pantone named honeysuckle—a bright purple-based pink—as the hue to watch.”
—Debra Gold

Sharon Naylor

Naylor is the author of 30 wedding books, including Your Special Wedding Vows and Your Special Wedding Toasts.SharonNaylor.net