Never mind that the Colour of the Year – or COTY – predictions are chosen by a number of different design, trend and colour experts, and sometimes offer up quite different hues.
From paint and textile experts to digital and design colour brand Pantone, around this time of year we can expect the announcements for the following year to start arriving.
But because trend forecasters work so far ahead, these colours are actually chosen well before they are announced. Often they are used in a professional realm to help fashion, design, interiors and other brands select the tones they will create their products in, for upcoming seasons.
Which is why a selection for 2026 is also on our horizon.
A rich and bold colour called ‘Transformative Teal,’ is the first shade revealed as a hot pick for 2026.
Trend forecaster WGSN, a global authority on consumer and design trends and Coloro, a global authority on the future of colour, have banded together to announce the colour, sharing a shimmering metallic swatch of the hue.
“Transformative Teal is a harmonious blend of blue and green, symbolising nature’s diversity,” reads a release on the selection. “It brings a transformative and regenerative character to products, making it a viable option for brands seeking innovation and market relevance.”
“With the promise of becoming the most sought-after colour of the year, prepare to see Transformative Teal emerge across multiple markets.”
Experts have hinted that colours derived from nature will be big in coming years as we grapple with digital and social overwhelm, so we’re not surprised to see this colour emerge, though it’s strength of contrast is a little surprising. It perhaps serves as a link between the natural and digital worlds, with the emergence of AI as a dominant part of design.
Can you see this colour in your life going forward?
