This season there is a move toward the cooler and softer side of the color spectrum. An eclectic, ethereal mix of understated brights, pale pastels and nature-like neutrals take center stage as designers draw from daydreams of simpler times. Remembrances of retro delights, folkloric and floral art, and the magical worlds of tropical landscapes restore a sense of well-being as we head into warmer months.
“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. 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.”
The lead color for women for the Spring/Summer 2015 season, PANTONE 14-4313 Aquamarine is an airy blue with a dreamy feel. Cool and calming, ethereal Aquamarine is a shade with a wet and watery feel. Open and expansive, this restful blue also acts as a stress reducer.
-
- Pamella Roland, Dennis de Jonghe, Elke Berr, Rina Limor.
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.
-
- Leon Mege, Stephen Webster, Thistle & Bee, Barbara Tfank
Generally not thought of as a fashion color, though it does come back from time to time, PANTONE 14-5714 Lucite Green is a soothing green shade whose time has really come again. Fresh and clarifying, cool and refreshing, Lucite Green has a minty glow. Light in weight and also in tone, Lucite Green seems almost transparent.
-
- Monique Lhuillier, Katie Decker, Mathon Paris, Bochic
Reliable and thoughtful, PANTONE 19-4052 Classic Blue inspires calm, confidence and harmony. Serving as an anchor to the Spring/Summer 2015 palette, Classic Blue is a shade that is strong and reliable. Just as with the sea, because of its waterborne qualities, this Classic Blue is perceived as thoughtful and introspective.
-
- Pesavento, Shamballa, Ulysse Nardin, Trina Turk
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.
-
- Jay Godfrey, Andrew Georghegan, Mulberry, Jochen Pohl
Aptly named, PANTONE 16-1720 Strawberry Ice is suggestive of a cooling and refreshing delicacy, yet its warmth as a color is quite appealing. Subtle and charming, Strawberry Ice is an ideal shade for Spring/Summer 2015. Both tasty and tasteful, Strawberry Ice is a confection color that evokes a feeling of being “in the pink,” emitting a flattering and healthy glow.
-
- Yael Designs, Vianna Brasil, Makur Designs, Bibhu Mohapatra
Spontaneous and gregarious, PANTONE 15-1247 Tangerine is a juicy orange shade that is energizing, yet not jarring to the eye. Versatile Tangerine is striking enough to stand on its own and adds vitality to a printed pattern. Good natured and friendly, but with a tangy edge, this fun-loving color invites a smile.
-
- Yoana Baraschi, Piropo Joyas, Syna, Erica Courtney
Just as the name implies, PANTONE 13-0720 Custard is a delicious and delectable yellow. Sweet and sunny, Custard is a cheering tone that brings thoughts of pleasant relaxation and comfort food. Engaging with its soft and mellow warmth and full of good feelings, subtle Custard has an affable and easy disposition.
-
- Jye’s, Giovanni Ferraris, Van Cleef & Arpels, Nicole Miller
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.
-
- Hervé Léger , Cris Porto, Jolie B. Ray, Sicis
More dominant for men than women in Spring/Summer 2015, PANTONE 14-4102 Glacier Gray is an unobtrusive gray that contrasts and enhances; bouncing off other shades without taking away from them as it slips into the background to allow other colors to take center stage. Nature’s most perfect neutral, Glacier Gray is a shade that is timeless. Quietly assuring and peacefully relaxing, Glacier Gray, is above all, constant.
-
- Victor Mayer, John Apel, Damiani, Dennis Basso
