I’ve noticed a color trend or should I say  a “lack of color” trend that I find interesting.  The trend I’m referring to I call “PALED”.  From cars to Christmas decorations,  the colors seem to be softer, a little less defined.  My tree this year is adorned with ornaments in golds, creams, silvers, and clear glass with white lights.  Wrapping papers are soft golds, greens, cream and silver along with coordinating ribbons.  Altogether, a very soft look.

I got a new car in February – it’s a pale gold – like champagne.  My husband’s new SUV is almost the same color as is my daughter’s new Mini-van.  We didn’t plan this either.

I went retailing the other day in a hip store, looking for a cool gift for my daughter.  A lack of any serious color, except for red, was noticeable.  There were plenty of blacks, greys, browns, creams, taupes, and beiges though. 

I was watching Candice Olson the other day, and she did a stunning room, all in very pale tones and it was truly beautiful.   It felt calm and relaxing, but had the touch of sparkle that sets her designs apart.  Check out her newest line of wallpapers from York called Dimensional Surfaces – lots of pale tones there as well.

Is this a reflection of our economy?  Are we anticipating holding on to things longer and afraid to choose a color that might seem trendy and outdated by next year?  Hmmm.