Dulux names three colours as its 'Colour of the Year' with Bira Direct in attendance

Dulux has broken with tradition by announcing not one, but three Colours of the Year for 2026 at a special launch event attended by the Bira Direct team.

The paint brand revealed the shades as part of a collection called Rhythm of Blues, marking the first time in its 25-year trend forecasting history that it has unveiled a trio rather than a single colour.

Dulux Event

The decision was made by a global panel of colour experts and design leaders, who agreed that a family of blues better reflects the varied moods and paces of modern living.

Dulux described the collection as versatile, capturing “moments of calm reflection, carefree bliss and bold fun” while offering homeowners the freedom to set the tempo in their spaces.

The three shades are Mellow Flow, which Dulux describes as a soft light blue that brings clarity; Slow Swing, explained as a deep grounding blue; and Free Groove, described as a vibrant and playful blue designed to energise.

Marianne Shillingford, Creative Director at Dulux, said: “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. Its 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, 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 three shades will roll out across Dulux retail ranges in the coming months, with point-of-sale displays highlighting how the palette can be used individually or together.

The Bira Direct team attended the launch, which featured the chance to meet the iconic Dulux Dog and explore three immersive rooms, each styled around one of the new shades.

The announcement follows last year’s True Joy, a "bright yellow", and 2024’s Sweet Embrace, a "soft and optimistic pink", with this year’s launch signalling a shift towards greater choice and flexibility for retailers and consumers alike.