The color turquoise lies somewhere between blue and green, and is often known to represent water and evoke images of seascapes and tropical escapes.

Named after a gem that bears colors that range from sky blue to deep greenish blues, the color turquoise is used in many applications. Turquoise is known to have a calming, soothing effect. The color also creates a feminine appeal in lighter shades. Darker shades give a more sophisticated look. The different shades of turquoise come in many names:  darker shades are called teal or ultramarine, mid tones are called blue-green, and lighter shades or aqua or aquamarine.

Lighter shades of turquoise can also be called cyan. Although largely identified as a 60s or 50s color, turquoise has revived its appeal this year and has been seen sprucing up runways and design houses. The turquoise revival has also been helped along by Pantone, one of the top professional color agencies. Pantone has chose turquoise as its color of the year, replacing last year’s Mimosa – a warm shade of yellow.

You can easily upgrade your wardrobe to 2010 with a few wisely selected pieces, starting with turquoise shoes. The color matches exceptionally well with all neutrals: black, brown, white, and gray. The most beautiful combinations are made by turquoise and gray. Another excellent match is turquoise shoes with any chocolate-colored clothing.  Turquoise and chocolate is a classic combination that is right up there with the in-fashion look. While turquoise shoes with neutrals make a look that is truly excellent, nothing beats matching turquoise with blues and even violets. Because it incorporates shades of blue, turquoise shoes are perfect for light blue frocks, blue suits and jackets, and blue skirts. While turquoise appears to be a summer or spring color, the way it conjures images of the tropics and a general feel of escape, its appeal can work its way past these two seasons.

Because turquoise works rather well with orange, reds and browns which are fall colors, your turquoise shoes will extend their wear well into autumn an even in winter.  Choose darker shades in regular leather or suede to give yourself more range for seasonal dressing. Darker shades also work well with livelier colors like reds and pinks. A pair of strappy turquoise shoes will complement a red blouse or a pink top. Turquoise shoes will not be hard to find with turquoise being named color of the year. Match it with other accessories to complete the look.