So, what do you think?

So the colour of the year for 2013 is Emerald Green, according to Pantone. I was quite surprised actually, as the early money was on Monaco Blue - and as you know, it's one of my favourites. But I have to say, I do love Emerald - it's strong and distinctive and not for the feint-hearted. Used wisely, it's a show-stopper. Used not-so-wisely, it's a hot mess. So I hope you think my new range of emerald sea corals is firmly in the first category....

My Oceana Series in Emerald Green

for sale in my Etsy Store

I've put together some pics to show how lovely emerald can look. For me, I like it best when used as a pop of colour - the supporting act rather than the lead. A little can go a long way, but if you're game, it can really pay off - as the following pics show...

How gorgeous is this emerald chinoiserie wallpaper? It's in the home of the lovely Dagny of Scandinavian Chic, and I was smitten the minute I saw it. It's the perfect solution if you're a little scared of colour - a smaller space, away from the main living area is a great place to test the waters....

If you want to make a softer statement, try pairing it with soft tones of greens and blues - it lessens the impact and is soothing rather than strong...

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Here, the island is the stand-out, with the green repeated in the wallpaper pattern for a cohesive look...

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I love emerald with a grey background - it takes it down a notch yet still packs a punch. Although these tufted bedheads are not quite emerald, they'd work just as well if they were, and I love the pops of jewel colours in the room - the perfect accompaniment....