Colour Fatigue: Why Certain Paint Hues Fall Out of Style

A growing sense of ‘colour fatigue’ is affecting home décor choices, driven by the prevalence of similar hues on platforms like Instagram and Pinterest. But what exactly makes a paint colour feel dated?

The Illusion of Trend

Colour consultant Fiona de Lys explains that the perception of a colour becoming outdated is complex. ‘Colours that stand the test of time are often a bit obscure in description, with varying hue,’ she says. ‘The ones that feel “statemented” and trending define time by default.’

Colour consultant Harriett Slaughter adds, ‘I’m not sure I believe in dated colours as much as I believe in dated applications.’ She cites ‘Matchstick’ by Farrow & Ball – a rich, clotted cream with a hint of peach – as an example: when paired with bright white woodwork, it can feel overly formal, but used throughout a room, it becomes more contemporary.

Shifting Preferences and Practicality

Interior consultant Patrick O’Donnell notes that grey is currently taking a backseat, stating, ‘Thankfully, it still seems to be taking a decorative backseat at the moment, which is pleasing indeed. Grey can be so unforgiving in our British climate unless saturated with generous natural light.’ He suggests alternatives like dark khaki or butter yellows for kitchen joinery.

Colour consultant Fiona de Lys also suggests that the way a colour is applied is crucial. “Take a shade like ‘Matchstick’ by Farrow & Ball, a rich, clotted cream with a hint of peach. When used with bright white woodwork, it can feel overly formal or traditional. But used all over, it becomes something else entirely. It feels cocooning and contemporary.”