SICO Paint by PPG Unveils 2021 Color of the Year: Blue-winged Warbler

At a time when consumers have involuntarily slowed down their lifestyles and are craving comfort and a sense of optimism, the SICO paint brand by PPG suggests taking a cue from nature with its 2021 Color of the Year: Blue-winged Warbler (6160-52). 

Blue-winged Warbler is fittingly named after the North American songbird, whose vibrant colors are admired by nature enthusiasts and outdoor adventure seekers.

“While much of the world continues to shelter in place, consumers have turned to nature to receive the comfort and relaxation that they have been longing for after months of feeling unsettled,” said Martin Tustin-Fuchs, senior marketing manager, Sico paint brand by PPG. “This fresh aqua color instills a feeling of positivity, transforming a space into a serene retreat from the world outside our doors.”

Blue-winged Warbler is a complex combination of blue and green to create a jade aqua tone, which emulates the depth of a pool of water or lush greenery in a dense forest. 

This color pairs nicely with light creams, warm beiges or floral accents, representing a breath of fresh air and a welcomed remedy after nearly a decade of commonly used smoky grays.

The increasing need for self-care, comfort and relaxation were recurring themes at PPG’s recent Global Colour Workshop. 

This annual event brings together more than 30 PPG global color stylists from the automotive, consumer electronics, aerospace, and home paint and stain industries. 

Over several days, the stylists analyze the runway, lifestyles, demographics, geographies, global events and cross-cultural societal inspirations to determine what colors will resonate and represent current consumer mindsets, including the Sico paint Colour of the Year.

In addition to Blue-winged Warbler, PPG color experts identified three color palettes that will resonate in 2021:

Be Well: Creating comfort

Intended for the consumer who wants to fully embrace mindfulness and intention, this palette showcases natural hues that are restorative, compassionate and optimistic. The colors celebrate the beauty of all kinds and relate to those who want to prioritize wellness in mind, body and spirit. The palette includes colors like Acoma Stone, earthy ginger with persimmon undertones, and Cool Green, a subdued green with an azure undertone. Both colors pair nicely alongside Blue-winged Warbler.

Be True: Anchoring reality

This palette celebrates authenticity and connection by imitating an artisan’s touch and renewing traditional know-how by layering vintage-inspired colors and recycled and contemporary touches. The palette is a mixture of organic and heritage influences with warm, earthy tones combined with jewel box hues. Church at Auvers, a rich maroon with chocolate undertones, grounds the palette alongside Cool Current, a glass-bottle green, and Blue-winged Warbler.

Be Wild: Activating optimism

A mood-boosting combination of colors, these hues are a celebratory expression of individuality and reclaiming power. Included in the expressive and creative palette is Jasper Blue, an unexpected periwinkle, and Limpid Lagoon, an aqua-blue with a deep-water undertone, both colors that pair effortlessly with Blue-winged Warbler.