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Pantone’s Color Choices for 2015 Impact Fashion

The Pantone Color Institute really sets the tone for fashion through their announcement of their color choices for the year to come. They’ve just made their choices for 2015, and already designers and people in the fashion world are abuzz with how they can incorporate the color choices into clothing.

If you want to stay on-top of trends in fashion, take a look at their color choices, their descriptions and their potential uses as well as why they were selected to be in the spotlight during the coming year.

Pantone describes color choices as moving toward the cooler and softer side of the spectrum, with a focus on an eclectic and ethereal mix of subtle brights, pale pastels and nature-inspired neutrals. There’s also infusion of retro sensibilities and some inspiration to be found from folklore and floral art.

“Many feel compelled to be connected around the clock because we are afraid we’ll miss something important. There is a growing movement to step out and create ‘quiet zones’ to disconnect from technology and unwind, giving ourselves time to stop and be still,” said Leatrice Eiseman, executive director of the Pantone Color Institute®. “Color choices follow the same minimalistic, ‘en plein air’ theme, taking a cue from nature rather than being reinvented or mechanically manipulated. Soft, cool hues blend with subtle warm tones to create a soothing escape from the everyday hustle and bustle.”

Marsala was given the top spot as color of the year and this is how the Executive Director of the Pantone Color Institute describes this option: Interesting on its own and a wonderful contrast for other hues, PANTONE 18-1438 Marsala serves as the foundation to the Spring/Summer 2015 palette. Sensual and bold, delicious Marsala is a daringly inviting tone that nurtures; exuding confidence and stability while feeding the body, mind and soul. Much like the fortified wine that gives Marsala its name, this robust shade incorporates the warmth and richness of a tastefully fulfilling meal, while its grounding red-brown roots point to a sophisticated, natural earthiness.

Other colors of note this year include:

Toasted Almond: Bringing balance to the coolness of the Spring/Summer 2015 color range is PANTONE 14-1213 Toasted Almond. A sun-tanned neutral, Toasted Almond offers comforting warmth and is indicative of a spontaneous spring, summer feeling. Timeless and versatile, Toasted Almond is an organic shade that speaks to authenticity and all that is natural—Leatrice Eiseman Executive Director, Pantone Color Institute

Scuba Blue: An invigorating turquoise, PANTONE 16-4725 Scuba Blue conveys a sense of carefree playfulness. Even though a cool shade, the vibrancy of Scuba Blue adds a splash of excitement to the palette. Scuba Blue offers a feeling of escape as it is reminiscent of a tropical ocean. This stirring and energizing shade takes us off to an exotic paradise that is pleasant and inviting, even if only a fantasy—lLeatrice Eiseman Executive Director, Pantone Color Institute

You can look at the full 2015 spring/summer color report here: https://www.pantone.com/downloads/support/FCR/PANTONE_FCR_Spring_2015.pdf

The report also contains information about designers using these colors. Let us know what you think about Pantone’s choices—are they a hit or miss for fashion?