Jan 12
19
Spring 2012 Fashion Colors: Lively & Upbeat
Despite the fact that many of us are still clomping around in the thick of winter, it’s time for women to begin thinking about Spring 2012. Maybe it’s still snowing where you are, or perhaps it’s just dreary. For others, the beginning of 2012 has been sunny and dry. Regardless of your climate, after you see this spring’s sizzling fashion colors, you’ll feel like you’re on a lush tropical island, sipping a piña colada!
Each season, an exceptional powerhouse of a company called Pantone, Inc. determines the color palette that will dominate retail stores, big and small, all over the world. The self-proclaimed “authority on color,” Pantone’s seasonal color palette is determined by select world-renowned fashion industry leaders. Designers take into consideration the economy, technology, and the “needs, moods, fantasies, and aspirations of consumers.”
Do you ever notice how profoundly colors can evoke feelings, and even better, help you express those of your own? Pantone, Inc. is a master at the mind-color connection. “Consumers look to spring for renewed energy, optimism and the promise of a brighter day,” said Leatrice Eiseman, executive director of the Pantone Color Institute®. “They have learned how color can help them alter a mood, while providing the vitality and enthusiasm that enables them to experiment with new looks and color combinations.”
The Spring 2012 palette is brilliantly diverse, including vivid and playful tones, those more soft and breezy, and contemporary takes on classics. Let’s take a look.
- Tangerine Tango: a dramatic, seductive,
juicy orange hue. Exudes a “take charge” confidence! - Solar Power: a radiant nature-inspired yellow that projects warmth and cheer.
- Bellflower: a lavish, artistic bluish-purple with an artistic flair.
- Cabaret: an intense and sexy rosy hue. Will be reflected in cosmetics this season!
- Sodalite blue: a nautical, contemporary navy color that conveys stability and relaxation.
- Margarita: a zesty yellowish-green pastel. As refreshing as its name suggests.
- Sweet Liliac: a nostalgic, translucent pinkish-purple. Adds the perfect element of romance.
- Cockatoo: a whimsical, soft turquoise that evokes feelings of creative expression and joy.
- Driftwood: a perfect grey-beige with a slightly “weathered feel” to complement the other colors.
- Starfish:a warmer, sandy neutral that is sure to evoke feelings of comfort and security.
One thing to love about these colors is that any two of them will complement each other perfectly. And the neutrals are rich enough to wear alone! Without further ado, let’s take a look at all of the colors that we’ll be seeing on the racks in the coming months:
Anybody can wear any of these colors, even if it is not the primary color. If you feel as though any of these colors is too “out there” for your taste, try pairing it with a “safer” color to bring you out of your shell a bit. For example, if Margarita makes you look washed-out, 
there is no need to bathe yourself in it. Instead, try contrasting a feminine Sodalite Blue top with a chunky Margarita bracelet.
Pantone chose Tangerine Tango as its 2012 Color of the Year. “Reminiscent of the radiant shadings of a sunset, Tangerine Tango marries the vivaciousness and adrenaline rush of red with the friendliness and warmth of yellow, to form a high-visibility, magnetic hue that emanates heat and energy,” said Eisman. The color transitions well into fall, too!
Fashion designers are not the only experts who study Pantone colors. We should also see the Spring 2012 palette in the season’s jewelry, accessories, and makeup. If you do nothing else, try on a lipstick with a hint of Tangerine Tango in it. Most women, even mature women, can wear lipstick with a subtle orange hue. Nothing says, spring is here, and I feel great like a slightly exotic lipstick.
Challenge yourself this season to purchase a garment of which the primary color is one you’ve never worn. Sound daunting? Stepping out of your fashion comfort zone can give those of all ages, especially women over 50, a real confidence boost. Not to mention, the number compliments may surprise you. Good luck, and happy shopping! __________________________________________________________
Source: www.pantone.com, Pantone, Inc.
