5 Color Trends Designers Promise Are Here to Stay

Trends come and go, but there are some things that remain timeless. This is especially true when it comes to defining what colors are 'in' and what colors are 'out.' While this year mostly showcased warmer tones, covering everything from buttery off-white to bright terracotta to bold Barbie pink, we learn time and time again that some hues have more staying power than others.

Of course, this can make designing a room feel overwhelming. As soon as one shade lands in the limelight, another exits. Is it even possible to remain timeless if you're decorating with color? As it turns out, yes—there are plenty of colors that are here to stay, according to those who use them most: interior designers.

In an effort to pin down which colors are more likely to last, we turned to a few of our favorite designers to share their opinions on which color trends are here to stay and how to work them into your own home. 

Shades of Pink

Pantone called it when they announced that this year’s color was Viva Magenta—a bright, bold hue full of joy and optimism. While this year might be remembered as a year full of bright pink, it’s the lighter tones that are likely to last in interior design. 

According to designer Caitlin Wilson, millennial pink was never just a fad. She assures us it’s quite the opposite—varying shades of the beloved hue will never go out of style.  

“Blush and rose pink both add a romantic touch to any space while still being versatile, pairing well with both modern and traditional decor styles,” Wilson says.

If you pick the right tone, blush pink can often act as a neutral, which means it can pair well with a whole host of other colors. To really add a pop to your pink, Wilson says try pairing it with green. 

“It’s a combination you wouldn’t expect, but makes a chic statement,” she says.

Black—It's Always Classic

Our interior trends often mirror the fashion world, and there’s a reason everyone needs a great black outfit. Interior experts say that this is true for our homes, too — black is always “in.”

According to Dan Mazzarini of BHDM Design, this fact is only enhanced when paired with white. It’s a combo he describes as timeless, modern, and the perfect backdrop for anything. Think checkerboard floors in a bathroom, black fixtures in a white kitchen, or white bedding set against a black bed frame. Eva Higby of Higby Design agrees, calling the pairing a versatile color combo that lends itself to timeless sophistication. 

“While it is a high-contrast pairing, black and white can be used to create a modern and bold look or a soft and cozy feel,” she says. 

To do this, Higby tells us all you need to do is slightly alter either or both shades. Just one subtle change can affect the whole feel of a room, making it warm and inviting or cool and contemporary.

Bold Shades That Act as Neutrals

When we think of neutral, we often think of calming, understated colors, like beige and greige. But Wilson says it’s officially time to rethink how we define neutrals. In fact, richer colors can absolutely act as neutrals if used to anchor a space.

“I’m thrilled to see more spaces incorporating richer hues in their designs,” Higby says. “Elegant, traditional, and beautiful interiors all have one thing in common: they embrace impactful color palettes." 

This is especially true when looking at the recent rise of earth tones. While they’re widely accepted as neutrals now, Mazzarini says that wasn’t always the case. 

“People tend to shy away from palettes with deep olive, terracotta, and sand, but we’re beginning to see these come along in popularity because of how they work in any intensity,” he says. 

Higby agrees, noting that earth tones are eternally perfect if your goal is to create a welcoming and inviting home.

“Olive, brown, and terracotta have staying power because they connect us to nature and resonate on a deeper level,” she says.

If you’re still on the fence, Mazzarini suggests brightening and muting the tones before you assess the final look, then, add the finishing touches. 

Warm Neutrals

While the last few years have shown us a definite tonal shift, there was a very recent time when all shades of gray dominated our feeds. While designers debate whether or not gray is truly “out,” others note that the move toward warm neutrals is one that’s likely to last—greige included.

One reason for the rise of warm neutrals is how they’re versatile enough to layer. According to Higby, varying warm shades of beige, white, and greige is a surefire way to add depth and interest while keeping things simple. 

“They provide a timeless and versatile backdrop that can be easily paired with different décor styles and accent colors,” she says.

Bold Colors

If your personal style is to live out loud, that should absolutely be reflected in your interiors. Being yourself will never go out of style, and some of the best color trends are the result of being fearless. Mazzarini points to periwinkle as one such color that can really pay off. 

“I’m not sure if I’m brave enough to do it yet, but it's a beautiful, bold color that's empowering and eye-catching at the same time,” he says.

Look at the colors that already exist throughout your home and see how you can elevate them by pairing them with the right neutral. Or, if you’re just getting started, try working off the colors you find in your closet—this can be a great way to pin down your personal style and make sure it’s reflected in your home. 

This is just proof of one thing: when it comes to your home, work with the colors you love the most, regardless of what the current trends and aesthetics say. Everything tends to go back around anyway, but using any of the above shades is likely to root you to a palette that’s timeless and eternal.