Holiday Color Formulas: An Unusual Concoction, part 2

Last year, I shared a series of color palettes featuring unusual color combinations. This year I set out to do the same. Decorating the tree is a big affair in the Bahamas. Our local department store usually has several fully decked out floor models. We did notice a few similarities to last year’s trees, but managed to find a few beautiful variations. My challenge this year was in being able to take close cropped shots of the trees. Most of them were up on shelves which meant my perspective was a bit different. It required creative cropping and editing in a few shots, but overall, I think you will love considering these palettes for non traditional projects.

Your Holiday Color Formulas Should Include Pastels!

The first palette makes me think about Easter and Spring.  I love the retro ornaments and the touches of sparkle.  The netting provides a soft texture but keeps the rich bright colors. It makes me want to go buy netting to create faux flowers for my layouts.

Pastels are a wonderful way to soften the traditional formality of a red and green color palette. Choose embellishments or patterned paper prints  that have a touch of whimsy.

Use a Favorite Season to Inspire Unusual Holiday Color Formulas!

This was another seasonal palette. A tree decked out in autumn finery.  I didn’t get a good shot of the owls that inhabited various portions of the tree along with pine cones and glittery orange stars. The first tree was inspired by spring and this one by autumn. Wouldn’t a summer inspired tree be lovely too?

Unlike the first palette, this one is pretty limited. It’s still quite striking though. If you are struggling with mixing and matching products from different holiday kits, choose one color and then look through your supplies for various shades of that color. They don’t have to be exact matches for you to be able to create your own striking custom kit.

Choose Red and Green, Then Add Just One Unexpected Color!

The rich pink and purple tones speak of decadence. This may just be the perfect palette for me to document new year’s eve. Though the pink is not quite Pantone’s Marsala, it kind of makes me think about both colors of the year being featured. Sort of an out with the old orchid of 2014 and in with the new Marsala for 2015.

This palette features the traditional red and green but adds just one other color. If the purple isn’t your cup of tea, choose your favorite color instead for a personal twist.

Blue and Silver Create and Elegant Holiday Color Formula with a Nod to Winter!

Of course, there is something to be said for blue and silver. This tree was a favorite of both my son and I. It features two of my favorite colors: blue and green. The silver adds just the right bit of sparkle. I think I have quite a few silver embellishments that are hidden in my stash.

I am looking forward to a little creative time after the holidays. Time in which my son will be spending time with friends and enjoying his new presents. Meanwhile, I continue to try to be present for him making holiday memories. I hope you are having as lovely a holiday season as I am.