The Color of Everything

Pantone 2010 Color of the Year: Turquoise 15-5119

The 2010 Color of the Year is Turquoise, according to global color authority Pantone, which sets standards for the design industry. Turquoise is a fluid, peaceful hue, one that combines the serenity of blue with the invigorating aspects of green.

“In many cultures, turquoise occupies a very special position in the world of color,” said Leatrice Eiseman, executive director of the Pantone Color Institute. “It is believed to be a protective talisman, a color of deep compassion and healing, and a color of faith and truth, inspired by water and sky.”

Turquoise also represents an escape to many, taking them to a tropical paradise that is pleasant and inviting–if only in fantasy, she added.

Little could Pantone have imagined another of this year’s interpretations: honoring the turquoise Gulf of Mexico waters that have been ravaged by the BP oil leak.

In addition to nominating the Color of the Year, Pantone creates nine color palettes for homes and interiors. Each palette reflects a distinct design point of view, such as whimsy, elegance or classicism. The colors don’t come out of nowhere. Each hue is carefully chosen with reason.

“Color is what happens in the world around us,” said Eiseman.

A few of today’s color influences:

* Soccer. American’s aren’t big soccer fans, but the rest of the world is. This year the World Cup tournament is being held in South Africa. In 2014 it will be in Brazil.

* Couture. Not long ago it took high fashion colors seven years to traverse the runway and into home furnishings. Today the timing is almost instantaneous, due to advances in communication and technology.

* Entertainment. Turquoise and cobalt blue that dominate “Avatar.” Unexpected color pops and creative combos found in the productions of Cirque du Soleil, Pixar and Tim Burton. The retro restraint of “Mad Men” and designer Tom Ford’s directing debut, “A Single Man.”

I always choose a Nail Polish Color of the Summer. This year I’m wearing OPI’s “Dutch Tulips,” a crisp rose that goes with pinks and reds alike. The free OPI iPhone App let’s you preview any of the 200-plus lacquer shades against your skin tone and nail length. You also can search for a color by name. If you like turquoise, try “Teal the Cows Come Home.”