Color and trend converge in High Point

By Tracy Bulla -- Home Accents Today, 10/1/2007 12:00:00 AM

This market, the hottest trends in both color and style blend seamlessly in an inviting lineup of new looks. Despite some of the obvious, expected choices, there are still a few surprises in store.

Our cover sketchbook, Gold, takes this tried-and-true metallic to a new level with the addition of velvety brown tones, resulting in one of the season's sizzling hot color combinations. While many of our top colors have been "in" for a while now (think metallics, neutrals and black), a little twist on the expected breathes new life into these trend-right favorites. Golden hues of the non-metallic variety also play into the warmth and sophistication emanating from this sketch, set off by elegantly modern designs.

Black, which could have easily passed its sell-by date, is still going remarkably strong. Paired here with minimalist designs, black takes on an almost seductive meaning. Laser-sharp lines express a precisely curated slice of design, punctuated with accents of modern art and wire.

Next, neutrals complement to perfection the ongoing movement of design with a conscience. Blending both eco-friendly and rustic, organic looks, this sketch presents a lush, contemporary approach to ecology that's neither drab nor dreary.

Get ready for the welcome return of red this season. It's been so long since we've seen strong, ultra-glamorous color that nothing less would do to set off our classically Asian sketch. Eastern-inspired designs are tweaked with modern-day updates, but the essential exotic feel remains the same.

Finally, the pizzazz of lilac (and other grayed tones) puts some pop into the court of Marie Antoinette. French influences continue their reign, feting fun, fashion, femininity and a soupcon of frivolity.