Dutch chemicals company Stahl has unveiled its new colour forecast for autumn/winter 2008/2009 under an overall theme of the ‘feel good factor’.

Produced by the company’s Design Studio the main theme for colours is one of toned-down contemplation and meditation in a world of “big monochromes”, emotion and physical impact, contrasting with dramatic colours, textures and decoration.

The forecast is divided into six sections based on colour and atmosphere.

‘Daily Luxury’ shows how chic is returning into life with volume, structure and stylised, disciplined shapes. Like a chessboard, black and grey are the extremes of light and dark, whilst in between, colours are reminiscent of the greens and browns of a formal courtyard garden. Surfaces, which are inspired by the timeless charm of the equestrian world, have a look of semi-polished natural refinement.

‘Electric Party’ is a rainbow of colours, with an explosion of reds, peach-pinks, bronzes and purples. Together with rounded, puffed shapes and volumes, this is a world of joyful femininity in sparkling, decorated, evening wear for the woman who wants life and zest.

‘Eco-Energy’ is a colour palette that reflects the blurring of nature as winter closes in over the northern seas. Colours are warm and earthy neutrals which conjure up images of thick mists, stones in cold waters and grainy, windswept cliffs.

On a warmer note, ‘Up-Dated Vintage’ evokes a feeling of warmth and good cheer, of old times in front of a coal fire, with neutral greys alongside gentle old-fashioned pinks, suffused with yellows. Shapes are derived from the second-hand, used look while accessories are warm and full of retro-charm.

In ‘History Surfing’ minimalism is nowhere to be seen as the mood evokes the rich opulence of noble armour and knightly deeds. Burnished foil covers eroded patina in a range of copper and bronze which are underlined by pastel greys. Shapes are architectural and sculptural. Decoration includes metallic plates and studs.  If history provides a dramatic and glamorous fashion, so too does the modernism of the ‘Athletic Show-off’, although the look is very different. Glamorous functional shapes support visually rich surfaces in crispy metallics and out-of-focus holographics which carry contrasts of blues, greens, brown and terracottas in light and dark shades. Decoration is inspired by ice-skating couture with rich, often metallic colours and the amazing effects of sparkling beads stitched onto leather goods, bags, footwear and clothes.