ODD BITS: Pantone announces two serene Colors of the Year

Every year, Pantone has a little fun with the public by forecasting a Color of the Year. In the past, these have been sophisticated, lively colors that express the mood of the moment, and instantly become popular in fashion and product design. I particularly liked 2010's Turquoise, and I loved 2014's Radiant Orchid.

And last fall's color of choice for weddings, 

Amethyst Orchid -- wowza!

For 2016, the company has departed from tradition and chosen two surprisingly quiet colors, Rose Quartz (baby pink) and Serenity (baby blue). Perhaps this choice reflects a desire to find calm and comfort in a world gone mad, but I initially found the colors rather dull and passive -- suitable for stereotypical nursery decor but not much else.

The look of 2016?

Pantone calls their selection "a snapshot of what we see taking place in our culture that serves as an expression of a mood and an attitude."

Now that I've seen some uses of these colors in

home decor and appliances, they are starting to grow on me.

Kind of irresistible -- a rose-colored hand mixer.

Kate Spade rug

For more info on color technology specialists Pantone,

link here.