If you think this paint colour is 'dated', it's because you're using it wrong – paint pros reveal how to use turquoise in your home for a bold, summery look
This Y2K colour trend may be everywhere right now, but here's how to give it longevity in your home
The Y2K revival charged back into fashion during lockdown and has shown absolutely no signs of slowing down since. And the latest outdated trend to become cool again? Turquoise. Although experts say this hue never actually goes out of fashion, provided you know how to style it well.
Blue was always destined to be one of the biggest colour trends of 2026, but I never expected that particular hue to be turquoise. But I’ve been seeing this bold, summery shade everywhere, from the racks of my favourite clothes stores, to the homes of my favourite influencers online.
This retro colourway is perfect for the summer months. It’s striking and refreshing, while offering some early 2000s nostalgia. Here’s how you can make it work in your home in 2026.
Why is turquoise trending?
If you’ve been seeking new blue bedroom ideas or blue living room ideas, turquoise is the curveball shade you should consider if you’re looking for a paint shade that packs a punch (and delivers on nostalgia). You probably remember turquoise’s last reign of popularity back in the 2000’s, but it actually has its roots in mid-century design.
‘The trend for turquoise dates back to as early as the 1950s, where a bathroom drenched in the shade was a common sight, as tiles, basins, sinks and baths were all blocked in colour. The shade was also common for kitchen appliances and accessories to add a pop of colour to more muted backdrops,’ explains Donna Taylor, colour and design manager at Johnstone’s Paint.
‘Last in the limelight in the late 2000s, the hue plays on nostalgia trends for Millennials and older Gen Z who are looking to decorate their first homes, with a 100% increase in Pinterest searches for turquoise colour inspiration in the last month alone.
‘This nostalgia movement, paired with the ongoing popularity of maximalism, has put turquoise back at the top of the wish list for those looking to redecorate this summer. The colour carries a playfulness and packs personality with its warm tone that blends blue and green to reach a vibrant middle ground,' Donna continues.
‘The Y2K movement is seeing people reflect on the 2000s and bringing back old trends. Capturing the essence of revisiting your inner child, turquoise is a fun, vibrant shade, and that’s why people love it!’
How to style turquoise in 2026
If your inner child is itching to add a splash of colour to your home, we say go for it. Turquoise will not look dated if you style it via a 2026 lens. Period. For this, it works best as an accent colour. You can even use it as your own ‘red thread’, adding pops of the colour throughout your home for a cohesive look.
‘Today, we're seeing turquoise used in ever more sophisticated and versatile ways. From colour drenching to feature walls and painted furniture, to using as an accent to rooms painted in warm colours like gold, clay red and pink shades,’ says Marianne Shillingford, creative director and colour expert at Dulux.
‘And for those looking to make more of a statement, turquoise can also be paired with sunny yellows, like Pale Citrus, or orange tones, such as Copper Blush, to create a vibrant, summer holiday-inspired palette.’
Donna agrees, again stating that turquoise performs well as an accent colour in modern homes. However, she does say it pairs well with lighter blues and cool pinks, such as Johnstone's Pink Cadillac (£18, Argos).
‘Turquoise often works well as an accent rather than the main colour in a room. This could be a feature wall, or to brighten up furniture like coffee tables, bookshelves or sideboards to add some personality,’ she says.
‘If you’re not sure how turquoise will fit into your home, start with some cushions and a throw to get used to it at first, before you start getting the brushes ready.’
Shop the turquoise trend
Inspired by the catwalk runways of Paris, Milan and London, this highly-pigmented paint shade is bold and expressive. Do you dare try it?
This shade of blue is stunning, and is complemented beautifully by the simple cream and pink lampshade. Pooky is always an excellent lighting choice, too.
If you don't want to pick up a paintbrush, a statement cushion can do a lot of heady lifting. I adore the bold blue and intricate pattern of this one.
I personally think the turquoise trend is perfect for summer, bringing holiday vibes to the comfort of your own home. And by carefully using it as an accent colour in your home, you’ll extend its lifespan long after the holiday season ends.
