Cupcake

Photo: Marko Metzinger

More vibrant than black but just as adaptable, the color of the season is a standout in any setting.

Dinnerware, Robert Haviland & C. Parlon by Mottahedeh & Co. Cupcakes, Patti Paige Baked Ideas. Napkin, Julian Mejia Design. Pencil, Stabilo.
Flowers

Photo: Marko Metzinger

Leatrice Eiseman, head of the Eiseman Center for Color Information and Training near Seattle, isn't surprised to see a gorgeous go-with-anything color take off in this economy. "We want versatility," she says. "But versatile doesn't have to mean boring."

Flowers, Ovando Floral Design, $150.

Photo: Marko Metzinger

De-stress Signals
If blue and green are calming colors individually, they're the picture of serenity when combined. "We associate blue-green with foliage set against a clear sky," says Eiseman. "It brings your anxiety level down." So consider a sea change for your bedroom walls or living room window treatments.

Wallpaper, Flavor Paper, Graham & Brown, and Phillip Jeffries Ltd. Plate, Paola Navone for Richard Ginori Inc. Agate slice, Royale Minerals.

Photo: Marko Metzinger

"Don't be afraid to give this color a starring role. When I enter a peacock room, I'm automatically turned on by its unusual, jewel-like quality. I think, Wow, this person has good taste." —Anthony Baratta, Diamond Baratta Design in NYC

Shampoo, Oribe Hair Care. Tiles, Ann Sacks Collection, starting at $3 each.

Photo: Marko Metzinger

"Peacock accents wake up your decor for relatively little money. Go to HomeGoods and get blue-green lamps, pillows, and towels: They make everything instantly more interesting." —Elaine Griffin, NYC interior designer

Throw, Kumi Kookoon, $875. Pillow, Anthropologie, $58. Shoes, Tory Burch, $395.

Photo: Marko Metzinger

Macaron tower, Bisous Ciao Macarons, $250.

Photo: Marko Metzinger

Jewelry box, L'Objet Pour Fortuny, $395. Necklace, Roberta Chiarella, $78. Earrings, Nagicia by Tricia Kim, $105.

Next: How to wear teal