Designers should always know what colors are popular ? and which are about to become popular. Color permeates every aspect of a designer's life. Every brochure, logo, and website that a designer works on must have the right colors, used in the right ways. Without a firm knowledge of the current trends in color, a designer can quickly be placed on the back burner of the design world.

And because color trends can change so rapidly, it is important to investigate them often. Colors that were popular at the beginning of the year may not hold that status by July. Here is a look at some of the colors that are gaining in popularity as we hit the half way point of 2008:

Greens

It is no coincidence that, as people become increasingly aware of human effects upon the planet, the color green also becomes more popular. Green has long been used as a subtle color, often relegated to the background.

But greens are becoming used in bold ways more often. Yes, green represents the growing environmental trends, but it is a very versatile color as well. It is perfect in living spaces, due to its subtle properties and the fact that it is easy on the eyes.

Black and White

As any good designer knows, trends occur in cycles. And so it that, after decades of being seen as ?classical? and ?old fashioned?, black and white have reemerged as popular colors.

The simplest of all color schemes, black and white designs can lend a great deal of power to any project. This scheme exudes power and elegance. For a sophisticated feel, black and white can be the perfect choice.

Antique Colors

Another sign of a ?retro? trend taking shape is the increasing popularity of traditional colors. Colors that hearken back to the days before computers and digitally enhanced designs are becoming more and more in demand.

The colors that have enjoyed the greatest resurgence in this vein include deep reds, warm browns, pumpkin oranges, and deep hued blues. Think of old fashioned tapestry, and you will have a good idea of what colors are involved here.

Mid Tone Hues

As a follow up to greens, mid tone hues have also hit a crescendo in popularity. This makes sense, because as the other trendy colors have demonstrated, many people are searching for more classical looks in their designs.

Some mid tone hues that have regained popularity in the first half of 2008 include fern, palm, pine, and sage. While all of these are members of the green family, I thought it would be appropriate to give them a section of their own. Many people, including designers, do not associate these colors with their green parents.