Colour has a way of affecting our mood – while also reflecting society.

And that is exactly what underpins the annual colour trend forecast by paint brand Dulux.

Last week, I attended a beautiful breakfast to mark the launch of the 2019 Dulux Colour Forecast. We were taken on a journey through Dulux Colour Expert, Andrea Lucena-Orr, and Stylist Bree Leech’s global exploration of the “new” colour palettes.

They carefully curated their findings into the 2019 Colour Forecast of “Filter”, which comes from the reality of modern life, full of notifications and noise. It’s a backlash against both busyness and conformity, made up of four themes: Repair, Wholeself, Legacy and Identity. They are a natural progression from the 2018 Dulux Colour Forecast “Balance”.

“Filter” allows us to curate a space unique to the many layers of our identity, expressed through tonal, saturated and contrasting palettes to nurture, recharge and empower. It’s perfect for nurturing and empowering and is as diverse as the stories we have to tell.

As Dulux Colour Expert, Andrea Lucena-Orr explains:

Filter speaks to our collective craving for individuality and personal expression. It helps us mindfully tap out all the distractions and focus on the things that move and inspire us.

The four themes encourage self-expression and creativity to create joyful spaces that nourish our souls. As Andrea explains:

Our confidence with colour is growing, and with this the drive to create spaces that reflect our history, hopes and dreams. The result is a new kind of bespoke where the traditions of the past are celebrated in dynamic and modern ways.

So let’s explore the Dulux Colour Forecast 2019 – styled by Bree Leech and photographed by Lisa Cohen.

P.S. Check out the Dulux Summer Colour Trends Forecast 2019 here!

Wholeself

“Wholeself” comes from our search for wellness and is the “anti” to living in overdrive mode. It’s about seeing our homes as templates and a flip from multi-tasking to mono-tasking.

Visually, we see muted tones of mauve, warm neutrals and golds combined with curves, softness and comfort. And it’s my absolute FAVOURITE palette. Dreamy!

INSIDER TIP: “Millenial pink” as we know it is turning into peachier tones. I’m not complaining because see how incredible it looks below!

Identity

Identity is inspired by the younger generation – who have grown up in the digital world -and have a positive outlook and belief that they effect change.

It speaks to the rule breakers, with clashing patterns, quirky combinations and no-holds-barred brights full of optimism and cheer.

Consider “Identity” your anti-trend – and permission to use colour as you like it. It’s the ultimate expression of self. Anything goes.

INSIDER TIP: Use white as your base and bring in small areas of paint or coloured furniture.

Legacy

It’s tradition – like you’ve never seen it. Dark, rich and decadent “Legacy” takes the best from the past into the contemporary age.

Think saturated hues such as deep purple, russet and aqua, offset by brown-based pinks, paired with velvets and classic shapes interpreted in unexpected ways.

INSIDER TIP: This is your excuse to pair deep, moody shades with vibrant brights like petrol blue.

Repair

This theme can be described as the “earthiest” of the palettes. It reflects our desire to reconnect with nature and form a deeper understanding of our place in the world.

It’s an escape from our “tap in and tap out lifestyle” and a contrast to our ability to control everything with technology. Instead, this palette is about experimentation and repurposing without knowing the outcome.

INSIDER TIP: British timber is back as are browns. And you can’t go wrong with vintage finds.