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Trend Alert: Mixing Metals in 2018

Metals such as gold, silver and rose gold have been en vogue for some time, often paired with complementary flat hues to make an attractive palette or scheme. In the past few years, designers worked outside of the box and started pairing metal with metal in the face of past “rules.” According to many of the professionals featured in our 4th Annual International Wedding Trend Report for 2018, the mixing of metals will stay on-trend in the New Year, and new combinations will be highly in-demand.

As is true with many event style trends, the rage over metals started in the interior design world. Enrique Crespo, Owner of Crespo Design Group says, “Bronze, copper and gold have been hugely popular for more than five years, but it has reached its peak and antique brass is now the popular finish.” Event pros will, thus, want to look at antique brass as the next big thing in metals in the next few years, and play with combinations with other metals to find the look that clients will soon want for their events.

Photo courtesy Andrea Harborne Photography

Until recently, rose gold was the newest addition to the mixed metals family. “Combining rose gold and silver, or, rose gold and copper proved popular,” said Jane Riddell, Owner of Planned for Perfection. Ceci Johnson, Founder and Creative Director of Ceci’s New York agrees, saying that “Rose gold is still trending and important.” She foresees her celebrity couples combining rose gold with silver or gold, especially in their invitations, and then allowing those colors to spill over into the rest of their design.

Clients are always after the next best thing, however, so event pros will have to work on new ways to use metals together. Thankfully there are many combinations left to try! “Silver and gold are a match made in Heaven,” according to Belladeux Events, Kim Sayatovic, and one that hasn’t been too prominent in events to date. Anything combined with copper or bronze also stands to be big in 2018.

Photo courtesy Katrina Jayne Photography

Where do you see mixed metals being used in design? The trend is apparent across event categories. Tablescapes of platinum, copper and silver candle holders, or gold trays under centerpieces built in silver containers make attractive combinations. Mixing sequined linens and different metal colors can make a room look very dynamic and elegant.

There are many places from fashion accessories through lighting and décor that are perfect for a mixed metal makeover. What combinations do you plan to use in 2018, and where?

Kylie Carlson

Founder / CEO, The Wedding and Event Institute
Kylie Carlson is the owner of ...