Color Signals 2025, Story 1

Apr 23

Story #1 of the Color Signals 2025 forecast is New Citizen. This is only one of the four stories that were created to bring the 2025 forecast to life. Contact me if you would like to see the full report, at no cost, or if you would like to pursue a forecast for 2026-27. 2027 is already on the radar as it should be for most product and marketing planning right now.

Trend forecasting is an ongoing process and while there are seasons for forecasting events like Color Marketing Group’s ChromaZone workshops, my process continues all year long. As any forecaster will tell you, we are watching, listening and capturing the insights all of the time. I have a framework of historical influences and drivers for color/material/finish trends and that is the touchstone for ongoing observation and tracking. Most of the work is industry-inclusive, meaning I don’t limit it to any particular client or product. Once the basic bones of the forecast for the year are pulled together it can then be tailored to my client. These insights are not the directive for palette development but they are integral to understanding the end consumer and their future purchasing behavior.

NEW CITIZEN

New Citizen marks the evolution of personal empowerment—one where individuals claim ownership of their time, values, and voice. In a world shaken by pandemics, socio-political unrest, and rapid decentralization, people are choosing to opt out of rigid systems and opt into authenticity, flexibility, and self-definition.

This is not about selfishness, but sovereignty. It’s a cultural shift: away from dependence on institutions and toward decentralized communities, creative entrepreneurship, and modular careers. It reflects the changing nature of work, identity, and even location—where one lives no longer dictates how one connects or contributes.

Power is no longer top-down. Gen Z, Millennials, and even older generations are tapping into side hustles, passion-led businesses, and self-directed learning. Demands for work-life balance are no longer negotiable. We expect to be seen for the full complexity of who we are—and we refuse to shrink into neat demographic boxes.

In this new model, “mass appeal” is redefined. It’s not about one-size-fits-all—it’s about hyper-targeted resonance. People find their tribes and communities based on shared values, not geography. Brands that succeed speak directly, authentically, and with nuance.

COLOR DIRECTION

The New Citizen palette illustrates this grounded self-empowerment with colors that are strong, assured, and emotionally intelligent.

• Deep, saturated hues that carry weight and substance. These are not loud colors—they are confident and unshakeable.

• Mid-chroma tones that offer a sophisticated vibrancy without tipping into flashiness. They strike a balance between boldness and calm.

• Gem-like hues signal connection to the real world—self-made, tactile, but lived-in.

• Comforting yet determined neutrals provide a stabilizing backbone, much like the structure that comes from within rather than being imposed.

APPLICATION POSSIBILITIES

Consumer Goods

Tech & Lifestyle Products: Rich matte finishes on phones, wearables, and gear that feel grounded and mature—colors that signal long-term value rather than fleeting hype.
Packaging: Brands are leaning into color blocking and textured finishes. Labels reflect honesty and purpose, with colors that reinforce trust and clarity.
Stationery & Tools: Empowerment through aesthetic—deep teals, burnt ochres, and thoughtful magentas on everyday objects that reinforce self-direction.

Fashion

Apparel: Tailored silhouettes in grounded tones. The colors work across genders and generations—quietly confident, adaptable to both day and night.
Workwear & Loungewear: Materials that blend function and comfort—colors that can live in both professional and personal realms. Mid-chroma plums, gentle greens, and interesting golds offer adaptability.
Accessories: Bold accent pieces in muted golds, oxidized silver, and richly dyed leather tones—emphasizing individuality, not attention-seeking.

Home Interiors

Paint & Walls: Saturated, expressive colors in public spaces (living rooms, kitchens) and grounding, enveloping hues in personal spaces (bedrooms, offices).
Furniture & Materials: Natural materials in solid, reassuring tones—think oak, clay, slate. Statement chairs or couches in strong mid-tones offer a sense of presence and permanence.
Textiles & Decor: Tactile fabrics like wool, linen, and velvet in colors that invite touch and comfort. Accent items showcase individuality without breaking the harmony.

This is only one of the four stories that were created to bring the 2025 forecast to life. Contact me if you would like to see the full report, at no cost, or if you would like to pursue a forecast for 2026-27. 2027 is already on the radar as it should be for most product and marketing planning right now.

Peggy Van Allen