2010 will be...turquoise

If leading color guide Pantone is to be believed, 15-5519 Turquoise's "serene qualities of blue" and "invigorating aspects of green" will be defining the mood of 2010.

According to the experts, turquoise is "believed to be a protective talisman, a color of deep compassion and healing, and a color of faith and truth [...]."

"We also find that Turquoise represents an escape to many," said Leatrice Eiseman, executive director of the Pantone Color Institute, "taking them to a tropical paradise that is pleasant and inviting, even if only a fantasy."

The color translates especially well into fashion and interiors due to its flattering qualities and its universal appeal that makes it easy to pair up with other colors: "Turquoise adds a splash of excitement to neutrals and browns, complements reds and pinks, creates a classic maritime look with deep blues, livens up all other greens, and is especially trend-setting with yellow-greens," Pantone said.

In particular, the color experts imagine the color to go well with trendy spas, bridesmaid dresses, and tableware.

Here are the trending colors from the past decade:

2000: Cerulean
2001: Fuchsia Rose
2002: True Red
2003: Aqua Sky
2004: Tigerlilly
2005: Blue Turquoise
2006: Sand Dollar
2007: Chili Pepper
2008: Blue Iris
2009: Mimosa

Site: www.pantone.com