Packing a punch by being in the pink

Pink’s packing a punch in decor and proving that it doesn’t have to be confined to little girls’ bedrooms and flirty boudoirs.

With a whole variety of shades to choose from in the pink palette, it’s easy to conjure a grown-up, cheery, sophisticated or downright sexy effect for an interior.

And there couldn’t be a more appropriate time to ‘think pink’, as October is Breast Cancer Awareness month with its signature pink campaign shade.

It’s also ‘the’ hot shade of the season in the fashion world, with pink coats reportedly this autumn’s must-have garment. Where the catwalk leads, interiors always follow.

“Pinks and soft corals have been seen on the catwalks featuring in Burberry and Antonio Berardi’s fashion collections for 2014," says Judy Smith, colour consultant at Crown Paints.

“They’re also key in a palette of strong pastels that look fresh and new for interiors going forward. The wonderful thing about pink is that it’s versatile, flattering and marries well with many different shades."

If you’re decorating with pink, she advises using different tones and textures of the same colour to add depth and interest.

“Alternatively, bring a scheme right up to date by using pink and adding touches of something unexpected, like a flash of chartreuse (yellowy-green) or combining pinks with the highly fashionable, deep charcoal grey,” says Smith.

Those who just want to dip their toe could have a guilt-free splurge knowing they’re helping a good cause, as a number of stores, including Laura Ashley, Marks & Spencer and Debenhams, are supporting breast cancer charities by donating a percentage of sales for certain pink items. Here’s a selection of some of the prettiest pinks in town, some of which will see ten per cent of proceeds go to charity.

THE FULL-ON EFFECT Shake up a room by creating a feature wall with a vibrant pink wallpaper or paint.

“Pink’s a complex colour which can lift a space, particularly when mixed with contrasting colours and natural materials, like wood," says Mark Upstone, international head of display at Conran.

“Softer shades can be calming, or go bold and vibrant with pops of neon pink and contrast with white and chocolate brown.”

TOP TIP: Use bright pinks, he suggests, for the underneath of shelves or inside cupboards to add interest. The colour works well in alcoves, in contrast with a white wall, as it reflects light and adds warmth.

A PALER SHADE Pink is perfect paired with neutrals for a soft, feminine look, or a crisp clean effect which suits kitchens and bathrooms.

Lighter pinks soften a space and work well with a shabby chic decorating style, says Angela Whittaker at fabric specialists JAB Anstoetz.

“Pink’s an easy and forgiving palette to use and dusty or pale pinks are especially soft and easy to live with, creating a comfortable airy feeling to a room.”

TOP TIP: If you want to brighten the space a little more, she suggests picking another pastel colour as an accent and using it for a flower arrangement, artwork or cushions.