Pantone Color Picks for Fall 2015

By Noelle Barbosa • September 1, 2015 • ART, FASHION DESIGNERS, STYLE

As September ushers in the end to summer and bitter-sweet start to fall, fashion aficionados will bid adieu to white linens and neutral cottons in favor of rich flavors and deep palates. Color plays an important role in setting the tone for the fashion season and no one knows this better than Pantone. Spearheading what’s lust-worthy in pigments, paints and other pretty things, this global authority on color asked designers from New York Fashion Week to select the top color trends for fall 2015. Here’s my take on what the experts had to say.

Dried Herb

Olive green was once designated exclusively for military garments and safari styles. Today, this earthy hue (flaunting hints of avocado and lime) commands the attention of Elie Saab who designs must-have pieces like this chic full-body jumpsuit and matching duster coat.

Desert Sage
Green + Gray = Desert Sage. Call it Dried Herb’s distant cousin, if you will. Dennis Basso channels the softness of this muted tone in a plush pull-over.

Stormy Weather

I once wrote about Claire Underwood, the ice queen of television drama with a couture-lined closet a mile long. It wouldn’t surprise me if Mrs. Underwood’s wardrobe includes a plethora of steely Michael Kors like the ones found in the designer’s ready-to-wear collection this season.

Oak Buff
Like golden rays peeking through turbid clouds after a storm-ridden day (literally and figuratively speaking), so is the intensity of Oak Buff. Badgley Mischka welcomes this fusion of mustard, canary and gold with a dazzling gown worthy of awards season.

Marsala

Rich, dramatic and full-bodied are not only the words plucked to describe a palate-pleasing red wine. They’re also elements found in Pantone’s color of the year, Marsala. Mugler designs an alluring two-piece with clean lines and bold accents. I need this in my closet!

Biscay Bay

Biscay Bay is where azure waters meet leafy green palms. Look closely and you’ll notice the color is deeper than the undertones of the Caribbean sea and edgier than the brilliance of a gem. Michael Kors casts a wintry spell on summer’s most sought-after hue with the production of this teal coat.

Reflecting Pond

Polished and refined – choice words that come to mind with Reflecting Pond. This solid navy commands sensible style. J.Crew takes a casual, yet elegant approach by pairing stone-washed denim with a swank blazer and ornate scarf dressed with gold embellishments.

Cadnium Orange

Cadnium Orange pays homage to the vibrant styles of the ’60s and ’70. Both youthful and optimistic, this color is soulful while remaining seasoned. Balmin channels juicy tangerine in this delicate micro dripping with fringe.

Cashmere Rose
Cashmere Rose is not just another pretty pink. This divine choice speaks volumes especially when utilized by Chanel.

Amethyst Orchid

If purple is the symbol of royalty, then Amethyst Orchid is its crown jewel (so to speak). Imperial and feminine with a diverse palate in its depth, this violet and plum blend beckons nobles to court and inspires the likes of modern man, Tadashi Shoji.