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Colour Origins

Colour Origins | Vermillion

Vermillion is certainly not for the fainthearted but, with the return of maximalism and ostentatious display, it may be time for this ultimate signifier of wealth to return in all its glory.

Colour Origins | Verdigris

Verdigris is not simply a luminous bloom on metal or a colour descriptor. It is a pigment in its own right, in production since ancient times.

 |  Colour Origins  | 10 February, 2025
Chrome Yellow

The history and cultural significance of Chrome Yellow, from its origins in 19th century art and interiors to contemporary fashion, design and architecture.

 |  Colour Origins  | 12 August, 2024
Rosso Ancora

Gucci’s determination to launch Rosso Ancora as a signature colour for the brand is an object lesson in the importance of making the perfect choice.

 |  Colour Origins  | 10 June, 2024
Gamboge

From poisonous purgatives to Flemish masters, this rich yellow has a distinctly chequered history.

 |  Colour Origins  | 11 March, 2024
Navy

Softer and more forgiving than black, sophisticated and sober, navy’s ubiquity gives it a pleasing and reassuring anonymity. If there is such thing as a fail-safe choice, then navy is it.

 |  Colour Origins  | 11 December, 2023
Rose

Could Rose be more of a variation on a theme rather than an actual colour? The sheer abundance of pinks under this banner, from palest blush to Barbie tones, would suggest that the word isn’t perhaps as precise as some colour names.

 |  Colour Origins  | 14 August, 2023
Avocado

Avocado has always swung wildly in and out of popularity. Now the current insatiable demand for natural greens sees avocado once again ripe for rehabilitation.

 |  Colour Origins  | 12 June, 2023
Beige

Pity the colour beige; this hardworking neutral has become the butt of jokes and the scourge of rented properties. Yet recent re-evaluation has revealed that this is a colour that shouldn’t be underestimated; just don’t call it by its actual name.

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