Store locator
Favourites
Account
Dulux Announces First Ever Trio Of Shades For Its 2026 Colour Of The Year Collection
September 22nd, 2025
Share
-
Email
-
Facebook
-
For the first time, Dulux
announces three different hues as part of its Colour of the Year 2026 – a
collection of upbeat, versatile blues in the aptly named Rhythm of Blues
family.
Shop Now>>
The collection features
three shades: the airy and serene Mellow Flow™, rich and grounding Slow Swing™,
and vibrant and expressive Free Groove™.
Dulux has created three
unique colour stories to showcase how this trio can help us slow down, connect
and embrace creativity.
9th September 2025, London: For its 23rd year of colour trend forecasting, a panel of colour experts and design leaders across the globe have selected a trio of blue shades – collectively named Rhythm of Blues – as the Dulux Colours of the Year 2026.
This versatile family of blues reflects the different paces of modern life – from
moments of calm reflection to carefree bliss and bold fun – giving us the
freedom to choose our own tempo.
The three shades in the Rhythm of Blues collection each capture a distinct mood.
Mellow Flow™ is a soft, light blue that brings a sense of clarity, calm and open breathing space – reminiscent of fresh seaside walks and their rejuvenating quality.
Meanwhile, Slow Swing™ is a deep, velvety blue that offers grounding and reassurance, providing the same familiarity and cosiness as an inky starlit sky.
Inspiring
optimism in abundance is Free Groove™ – a vibrant, energising blue with a
playful, creative edge.
This is the first time Dulux has launched a collection of colours as part of its Colour of the Year activity, a decision that Marianne Shillingford, Creative Director and Colour Expert at Dulux, explains helps us steer away from focusing on trends, and reconnect with what we need our homes to provide:
“Blue has been the world’s favourite
colour for years – but it’s far from one note. It delivers a sense of fluidity,
relief, stillness and freedom, which is exactly what’s needed in today’s
fast-paced world.”
“It’s roots in nature give us something to connect to, as well.
When we see light blues like Mellow Flow™, we might think of soothing springs or sunrise skies, for example, or be reminded of the deep ocean’s chilled stillness with a dark blue like Slow Swing™.
Whereas Free Groove™ offers a more intense heat, like that of summer pool parties.
Some of us are slowing the beat to recharge and find balance, while
others are looking to crank up the volume and create spaces that are simply
fun.”
“Rhythm of Blues gives us the opportunity to do both – it’s a family of colours that can soothe, steady or excite, depending on how you play it.
This collection offers colours you can
find peace in, and colours you can dance to, centred around three distinct
rhythms to offer endless possibilities for changing the pace of your space.”
The Rhythm of Blues launch is accompanied by three colour stories – Free, Slow & Flow – each inspired by a different “tempo” of life.
Whether layered with soft neutrals for a
peaceful ambience, paired with rich earth tones for a grounded and welcoming
feel, or contrasted with bright, playful accents for a creative burst, the
palettes offer endless possibilities for personal expression.
1. The Free Colour Story
Creates a boundary-breaking space that feels upbeat and carefree. Somewhere we can think outside the box, embrace our inner child and find the freedom and energy to play, experiment and dream.
2. The Slow Colour Story
Creates a wholesome, human space that feels restorative. Somewhere we can reflect, refocus and recharge our batteries. Simple and peaceful, it’s where we can find ourselves and get ready to face the world.
3. The Flow Colour Story
Creates a friendly and connected space that feels in tune with the world. Somewhere we can get together and bond with the natural networks of life: our families; our communities; the earth around us.
Shop Dulux colours online or head into your local Brewers Decorator Centre.
