As you know, some trends stick around for longer than others. The LBD (little black dress) has been around for just about forever. Granted in some different forms, such as the recent one-shoulder fad, but it is still a staple in just about every woman’s closet. Other trends we are glad to say good riddance to. Thank goodness avocado didn’t make it out of the 70’s! One trend expanding more and more is the use of gray as a neutral. Instead of gray just being lost somewhere in the mix of the color palette, it is taking on a more dominant role. As such, it is being used in lieu of more traditional neutrals like beige, tan, etc. Gray is easily adapted and fits with a variety of styles.
As a nice balance between the two extremes of black and white, gray is a “perfect” neutral. It is softer than the two extremes. Therefore, it can be incorporated into a variety of color schemes. Taupe, cream and pure white are good examples of color groups gray works well with. Gray also provides a wide spectrum to select from. All the way from dove gray to a dark charcoal there are a thousand hues in between to choose from. Darker hues will provide a more dramatic look, while lighter ones will add just a touch of color. This offers great control of exactly what look you want to achieve.
As a neutral, gray has a lot more versatility than other more traditional neutrals. It is easy to add pops of color to a gray color scheme. Unlike other neutrals all primary colors (red, yellow, blue) compliment gray. For example while you may not put red with a sand color theme, it fits quite nicely with gray tones. Secondary colors (orange, purple, green) similarly look great with gray. It is a nearly universal neutral.
Although gray is traditionally viewed as a masculine or industrial color, it can be tweaked to reach a softer feel. Gray mixed with shades of pink, even yellow, can have a decidedly feminine impact. For example, a gray nursery can be brightened up with pink touches following the arrival of a bouncing baby girl. Similarly, because of its versatility, blue or green touches can be added if the arrival is a strapping boy.
Try incorporating gray into your home. Start with a powder room, master bedroom, even the entryway. To test the waters, select a light dove gray paint color such as Restoration Hardware Interior Latex Paint in Pumice. Add in accents of color, as well as darker shades of gray. Or to dive right in, go with a dramatic charcoal paint as an accent wall. Try Restoration Hardware Interior Latex Paint in Charcoal or even Flint. Again add pops of color and varying shades of gray.
Have fun exploring this new trend! As always, I would love to help with your endeavors. Please send me an email at jentri@insideidd.com
Welcome Inside,
Jentri
