I was so happy to get to New York for the New York Gift Show in August which features all of the vendors for gift, home furnishings, tabletop, kids stuff etc.and the newest designers. I tirelessly hit thousands of booths, something kicks in when I am let loose in a shopping frenzy. After surveying the current trends which I felt have been brewing for the last season or two, I compared them with the color trends that will be also going forward in 2008 and has been highlighted by the leader in Color, Pantone.
The most important trends for Fall 2007 are:
-Green Living
-Sophisticated Glamour
-Global Traditionalism
1. Au Natural/Green Living - Natural elements like raw woods, bamboo and rattan were everywhere at the gift show from rattan plate chargers to wood stools that could be used as extra seating or an extra side table. These materials are expressive of the environmentally conscious issues that are meaningful to us today. Colors were rich and comforting, reflective of the friendly earthy outdoors.
Color Story: New Neutrals, Grassy & Botanical Greens, Chocolate Browns and Indigo Blues anchoring delicate, Apricots and Rosy pinks, Sea glass blue and Creamy whites. For a pop of contrast a floral inspired violet is being added to the palatte.
Au Courant Home Tip: Think contrast, light Aqua glass backsplash behind chocolate stained mahogany cabinets. Great options for indoor and outdoor living whether it is tabletop or seating. 
2. Classic City Chic Sounds like basic black but nothing is basic about the sophistication and drama of Black & White. The crispness of white is now adding even more lightness when used greatly in an interior and paired with the Shine & Sheen of metallics, Rich Textures and Animal Prints; The sheen of patent leather, luster of chrome, the lux of fur and cowhide is saturated with elegance.
Color Story: The luxury of silvered Mink Grey, the luster of metallics bronze, copper, silver and the translucency of crystal easily create glamour. All finishes are rich but with the newest return of grey, the sleekness of silver and chrome are even more desirable. For extra drama add a pop of red.
Au Courant Home Tip: Decorative items like a Croc embossed bar tray, buffalo horn salad tongs, leopard throw pillows, or a cowhide area rug add instant glamour to a table and/or room ...too much is too good. 
3. Globally Inspired Urban Beauty: There is almost an anything goes approach to this trend. It is very much based on personal, handcrafted and traditional expression with an emphasis on home and heritage. Global Patterns and handcrafted designs are repeated in fabric and texture - circles, fleur dis lis, architectural details from the past are all found in shapes of mirrors, wall coverings, and accessories.
Color Story: Inspired by the senses, tactile and flavorful. Sun burnt ochre, berry dyed pinks, earthy greens, espresso rich browns, yellow curry, purple wine, and an intense dreamy grey.
Au Courant Home Tip: Bring in a hand dyed fabric on a pillow or chair, it will warm up any Family Room or Kitchen area. Pull colors out for paint and cabinetry stain to inspire an entirely new look. 
Please feel free to contact Lisa @ Au Courant Home for assistance with paint color selections, decorating, accessorizing and home staging services. Au Courant Home offers the residential services that will enhance living at home, including Aventura Real Estate Sales, Relocation, Home Staging & Interior Decorating Services.
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