Cotton Inc. Forecasts 2008 Color Trends

New York – Perspective, a palette that combines edgy brights with muted cools, and Chameleon, a mélange of subtle color variations, will be the fashion-forward palettes for home furnishings for 2008, according to the color and fabric forecast by Cotton Inc.

The two were among the six color trends presented by Denell Pepin, Cotton's product trend analyst, with color families that ranged from barely-there washed tones in the Pure statement to bolder, brighter shades in Borrowed and Wonder, a palette of candy colors with a youthful outlook, she explained. The sixth is Stability which adds peach to a palette dominated by blue and brown.

Blue, in fact, is the dominant color statement throughout the color families, Pepin emphasized. And it is seen in many shades and tones, from cool and dusty to bold and vibrant.

Perspective, Pepin pointed out, “has a high energy and personality level” that combines brights with a balance of cool shades. Key fabric looks are traditional motifs updated with fun interpretations, metallic accents, and updated stripes and paisleys as well as abstract florals. Classic motifs and constructions develop edge and attitude.

Chameleon represents the contrast between darks and open, light shades, reflecting changing personalities with their moods, Pepin said. Yellows and rich browns are key colors.

Pure has a dedicated palette with nature as the inspiration both for color and fabric, Pepin explained. Exaggerated details such as oversized chenille yarns, appliques, pucker and large scale prints are the key design elements.

Borrowed, as its name implies, borrows from global inspirations, with “bold, expressive bright colors” and interpretations of hand stitchery and aboriginal designs. Stability offers “a touch of elegance” while drawing on architectural elements and taking inspiration in fabrics from masculine influences. At the same time, Stability brings a touch of elegance, subtle texture and homespun effects to fabrics.

Wonder offers a bit of fun, whimsy and fantasy, both with a candy color palette and a youthful outlook in fabrics that are more fanciful than the other groups.

All colors in the Cotton Inc. forecast have Pantone identification.