Country Caper: A “Spirited Journey” through 2019 color+design

Dunn-Edwards recently released its 2019 color+design trends with the theme of “Spirited Journeys.” The five trend color palettes are showcased in a collection of animated video stories highlighting the textures, materials and cultural references inspiring the looks. The videos were rolled out one at a time earlier this summer.

This annual glimpse at how our culture influences popular colors and design is curated with months of research and analysis to provide the most accurate forecast of color, design and trend information. People are always interested in trending colors but that is just part of the story. The textures and materials pair with color to tell a story about what’s happening in our lives and the world around us.

“Country Caper,” our fourth trend story, highlights the Bohemian mood associated with idyllic countryside living in chic, subtle decorator styles. Immersed in casually colorful opulence, we learn to embrace the
beauty of imperfection. Creativity and personal expression abound. Crafted and textured, authenticity is rewarded.

Inspired by flowers and bouquets from southern gardens to outgrowths of architectural redesigns ranging from modest to majestic aesthetics. Strong displays of motifs add drama, while washed-out textures blend color identities. A pleasurable, soft and eclectic mix of high and low design with traditional and modern elements
complete this bucolic aesthetic.

Materials and textures of Country Caper lean to updated classics in layered or collage patterns. Intensified bouquets add punch to a classically upscale elegant aesthetic. These luxury florals — from English roses to exotic florals and beyond — are shown in an array of artistic expressions, including graphic design, freehand painting or ikebana versions.

IMAGE LEFT: RIFLE PAPER CO. IMAGE RIGHT: YAYOI KUSAMA: ALL THE ETERNAL LOVE I HAVE FOR THE PUMPKINS

Extra-large or multi-colored elegant geometric patterns add weight to design, while kitsch touches — such as wild and domestic animals (Chinese dragons, bunnies, snakes, parrots, monkeys, etc.) — create a refined couture burst of color and texture.

IMAGE LEFT: Zendaya at 2017 Met Gala in Dolce & Gabbana Gown. Zendaya Coleman attends “Rei Kawakubo/Comme des Garcons: Art of the In-Between” Costume Institute Gala. Arrives at Metropolitan Museum of Art on May 1, 2017 in New York City. (Photo by Rabbani and Solimene Photography/Getty Images) IMAGE RIGHT: Chanel, pre-fall 2018 fashion collection. A model walks the runway at the Chanel Autumn Winter 2018 fashion show during Paris Fashion Week on March 6, 2018 in Paris. (Photo by Catwalking/Getty Images)

Updated classics such as houndstooth, checkerboard, jacquards and polka dots pay homage to European country life. Lacquered finishes and voluptuous textures create saturated monochrome contrasts with fur, leather, ceramics and other textile products. And gourmet foods (real or printed), in motifs such as seasonal veggies, fruit and mushrooms, add additional beauty to the décor.

IMAGE: Paradis Restaurant

IMAGE: MARIA O’BRIEN HOME. Photo credit: Marcia Prentice

Color renews the essentials. Classic and elegant tones of rich hues are layered with graceful overtones. Fresh, moisture-drenched, succulent hues. This series of greens — whether soft, grayed, dark or chemical
chlorophyll — perk up the palette. Shade and light dance among Juicy red and chalky neutrals, greens
and purples, tender pastels, and warm browns.

IMAGE: EDEN LOCKE HOTEL

IMAGES: EDEN LOCKE HOTEL

Classics take on a cheerful and fancy display of intense, deep shapes, grounded with dark brown for updated opulence. Lush gourmand nuances create artistic moods. A still-life painting comes to life. Refined and enduring.

To find more inspiration through our 2019 color+design trends and check out the other four trend stories and videos, visit us here. To view the full range of trending colors for 2019, click here.