With 100 days to go before the new year, it may seem a little premature to proclaim the it colour for 2020 already, but paint manufacturers are caught up in some sort of trends arms race and can’t help themselves. (And who wants to let Pantone have all the fun?)

We don’t mind: the announcements that have been pouring into our inboxes about various predicted Colour of the Year have the common thread of featuring soothing, nature-inspired hues, and on a grey September morning, we’re more than happy to soak up a little chromotherapy from the ocean blues and meadow-y greens.

The predicted palette promises a colourful new year. Here are the colours to watch for 2020. 

Sherwin-Williams’ Colour of the Year for 2020: Naval

They say: “A rich navy hue that strikes the balance between calm and confident.”

We say: It’s a versatile shade that can be used as a timeless neutral, or as a dramatic statement. Pair with jewel tones for an Art Deco-inspired look, or with black and white for a cool sophistication. 

Behr’s Colour of the Year for 2020: Back to Nature

They say: “Reflective of biophilic shades found in nature, the ecologically inspired ‘new neutral’ is meant to bring the soothing feelings of the outdoors into interior spaces.”

We say: The grounding, sage-like colour instantly soothes. Pair with graphic black-and-white elements to avoid leaning too far into pastel territory. Woods and whites make for a pretty combination, too.

Dulux Colour of the Year 2020: Tranquil Dawn

They say: “A new decade heralds a new dawn and the hazy pale green tones of Tranquil Dawn are calming and comforting just when we need it most in our lives.”

We say: A slightly softer take on the millennial minty green of yesteryear, we’re very much on board with this refreshing colour that takes cues from nature. 

PPG’s Colour of the Year for 2020: Chinese Porcelain

They say: “Chinese Porcelain is a deep, shaded, orchid blue with a violet undertone.”

We say: Sophisticated and soothing, this is a blue that brings in the colour without too much intensity. This would be a great pick for the bedroom€”colours in this range have been shown to help with sleep. 

Glidden’s (Not) Colour of the Year 2020: Whirlwind

They say: “Grays have been trending for more than a decade. If It's not broke, don't fix it!” says the press release titled “Glidden Doesn’t Announce a 2020 Color of the Year”

We say: Glidden may be trying to overthrow trend fever with their cheeky “non-announcement” but they can’t stop us from embracing this cool grey-blue… or pairing it with some dramatic navy cabinets in the kitchen for a decidedly on-trend look.