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Butterfield: The new 2016 colour trend

The soulful combination of Rose Quartz and Serenity challenges traditional perceptions of colour association.

Every time a new year rolls around, a brand new trendy colour du-jour is announced to the world, representing what’s to come in the world of fashion, beauty, and design.

For 2016, the new coveted colour hue may surprise you. It’s the blending of two shades—Rose Quartz and Serenity—chosen as the Pantone Colour of the Year.

“As consumers seek mindfulness and well-being as an antidote to modern day stresses, welcoming colours that psychologically fulfill our yearning for reassurance and security are becoming more prominent,” said Leatrice Eiseman, executive director of the Pantone Colour Institute

“Joined together, Rose Quartz and Serenity demonstrate an inherent balance between a warmer embracing rose tone and the cooler tranquil blue, reflecting connection and wellness as well as a soothing sense of order and peace.”

According to Pantone, the soulful combination of Rose Quartz and Serenity also challenges traditional perceptions of colour association.

Many parts of the world are experiencing a gender blur as it relates to fashion, which has in turn impacted colour trends throughout all other areas of design.

This more autonomous approach to colour is overlapping with societal movements toward gender equality and fluidity, the consumer’s increased comfort with using colour as a form of expression, and a generation that has less concern about being typecast or judged based upon the tones and colours they choose to adorn themselves with.

Rose Quartz is described as “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.”

How can you incorporate these two airy and whimsical shades in your own spaces this year? The answer is simple: Find small and coveted trinkets and treasures you can easily switch out with these zen-inducing hues. Decorative quartz chunks, candles, pillows for a neutral sofa, or artwork laced with hints of both shades. And  consider mixing in other supporting tones in navy blue, denim, celadon and persimmon to help carry this look into beautiful, everyday living.