Turquoise. The Pantone Color Institute selects a color each year that is based on its general sense of the world’s mood. Pantone says that turquoise, combining the serene qualities of blue and the invigorating aspects of green, evokes thoughts of soothing, tropical waters and a languorous, effective escape from the everyday troubles of the world, while at the same time restoring our sense of well-being.

“In many cultures, turquoise occupies a very special position in the world of color,” says 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. Through years of color word-association studies, we also find that Turquoise represents an escape to many – taking them to a tropical paradise that is pleasant and inviting, even if only a fantasy.”

Yellow. To be more precise it’s Mimosa, a warm yellow. Think the blossoms on a Mimosa tree or the cocktail. The Pantone Color Institute selects a color each year that is based on its general sense of the world’s mood. Pantone says that yellow expresses hope and reassurance, something needed in uncertain economic times.

“The color yellow exemplifies the warmth and nurturing quality of the sun, properties we as humans are naturally drawn to for reassurance,” says Leatrice Eiseman, executive director of the Pantone Color Institute. “Mimosa also speaks to enlightenment, as it is a hue that sparks imagination and innovation.”

Here’s a more in depth article on the announcement in The Washington Post.

The Color Marketing Group also announced its color trends for 2009 and says yellow is the standout accent color. The Winter 2009 issue of The Professional Quilter includes an article on all of CMG’s color predictions.

Yellow is my favorite color and can be found in various shades on the walls in my kitchen, guest room, one bathroom, the laundry room and the hall outside my office. I might have to find a place for Mimosa!