Experts predict hot colors for '07

Retailers and manufacturers got a lesson in the latest color trends from two experts who spoke at the Kids Today Conference in Key Biscayne, Fla., last month.

Husband-and-wife team Arnold and Fran Sude of Los Angeles-based Design Options kicked off the sixth annual conference with a color trend forecast that applied to apparel as well as the home market. The duo's presentation was accompanied by a slide show featuring models and scenes that showcased the trends along with color swatches.

Arnold Sude said that color wise, the kids market was quite similar to adult. "Kids are becoming very sophisticated, and they know exactly what they want," he said, noting that the children's apparel department in stores often closely resembles the adult side. He also said there is a domino effect, with apparel patterns and colors often trickling down to bedding and bath décor and accessories.

For spring and summer 2007, the Sudes said neutral and earth tones, such as khaki, paprika, brown and olive, would remain popular for both girls and boys. The couple also showed color swatches specific to each sex. For girls, the top colors palettes include Tropical Punch, which are icy, saturated pastels; Full Bloom, vintage shades; Sweet Treat, a mix of red, pink, coral, wine and fuschia; Primary Brights, with yellow as a rising hue; and Funtasia, deeper, more saturated jewel tones that include blues.

For boys, next year's color palette includes Comfort Zone, neutrals with an edge; Out of the Blue, different shades of the popular boy's hue; and Bright Future, featuring colors like coral and lime.

Looking ahead to fall and winter 2007, the Sudes' forecast includes dusty pastels and plaids in lime and green hues for girls and plum and green shades for boys.

The key colors to keep an eye on for next year? "Gray is the new black," said Arnold Sude. The couple added that coral and orange would be huge in 2007 as well, with many retailers placing reorders for the shades. The team also expects red, in deeper shades like burgundy, will do well with both boys and girls next year.

When asked how colors play in different regions around the U.S., the Sudes said that middle America has traditionally played it safe, but thanks to the Internet, that is changing as children and adults try to emulate what their favorite celebrities are wearing or the way they decorate their homes.

"What's in Beverly Hills will get to Target, Mervyn's and JCPenney much faster than before," said Fran Sude.

Arnold Sude

Fran Sude