Color authority Pantone LLC, an X-Rite company, picked turquoise as the color of the year for 2010. Combining the serene qualities of blue and the invigorating aspects of green, turquoise (Pantone 15-5519) evokes thoughts of soothing, tropical waters and a languorous, effective escape from the everyday troubles of the world, while at the same time restoring our sense of wellbeing, Pantone says.

“In many cultures, turquoise occupies a very special position in the world of color,” says Leatrice Eiseman, executive director of the Pantone Color Institute. “It is believed to be a protective talisman, a color of deep compassion and healing, and a color of faith and truth, inspired by water and sky. Through years of color word-association studies, we also find that turquoise represents an escape to many — taking them to a tropical paradise that is pleasant and inviting, even if only a fantasy.”

Whether envisioned as a tranquil ocean surrounding a tropical island or a protective stone warding off evil spirits, turquoise is a color that most people respond to positively. It is universally flattering, has appeal for men and women, and translates easily to fashion and interiors. With both warm and cool undertones, turquoise pairs nicely with any other color in the spectrum. Turquoise adds a splash of excitement to neutrals and browns, complements reds and pinks, creates a classic maritime look with deep blues, livens up all other greens, and is especially trend-setting with yellow-greens.

In fashion, turquoise makes a statement that can look elegant and dressy in fine silk and gemstones, or casual and fun in cotton and athletic apparel. Because of its versatility, turquoise is a great accent color in jewelry, purses, shoes, hair accessories, and nail polish for women, and ties, shirts and sportswear for men.

For instructions on how to do the veined turquoise enhancements shown, click here for a step-by-step by Young Nails’ educator Amanda Dodge.

To read about the Pantone Color of 2009, click here.