Pantone is a company that developed a system to make colors consistent across different industries. That is why every single Starbucks green is the same all over the world whether the logo is on a paper cup, ceramic mug or a cardboard box (and I knew someone whose job it was to check the stores, posters, advertising to make sure of that!)
The Pantone system makes it much easier for magazines to communicate specific colors to their printers for a cover logo and for clothing designers to communicate their color needs to the manufacturers.
Every year, Pantone decides upon a color that will influence fashion, home, industrial and graphic design the most that year. To determine which color it is, Pantone looks to everything from new films, art, music, technology and even to sports.
(If you want more in-depth info on how colors trend in fashion, check out my post about a how color trends develop here.)
Some past pantone colors of the year were Tangerine Tango (2012), Honeysuckle (2011), Turquoise (2010) and Mimosa (2009).
Pantone’s color of the year for 2013 is emerald.
Emerald is a very vibrant color and looks best on people who have a high contrast between their skin and hair (think Liz Taylor, Courtney Cox and Kristen Stewart) because it won’t overshadow them. (I will be doing a post on how to figure out what colors look good on you in the future. I promise!) Even if that’s not you’re coloring or you don’t want to wear emerald clothing, here is how to wear Pantone’s color of the year in lots of other ways.
Michael Kors ‘Cocktail Party’ Square Crystal Ring. The approx. setting width is 7/8″. It’s also available in Silvertone or Goldtone with a clear crystal. Free shipping and free returns. Was: $115.00 Now: $80.49
Timex Women’s Weekender Watch. Emerald green nylon slip-through strap with a round silver-tone brass case. 31mm white dial with numerals, two hands, green second hand, military time and luminous Indiglo® details. Quartz movement. Water resistant to 30 meters. $50.00
Urban Decay 24/7 Glide-On Shadow Pencil. If you want a fun look, wear this alone, or blend it with navy or black for just a hint of green (that’s what I do). Use the thin tip as eyeliner, or the side of the tip for a generous swipe of eyeshadow. All shades are paraffin, mineral oil, and paraben-free. Free shipping with a $25 purchase. Available in 11 other colors. $20.00
Tory Burch Logo Double Wrap Bracelet. I LOVE this!!! High-contrast colors pop from a glossed leather bracelet with signature gold studs. Approx. length: 15 1/2″. Approx. width: 1/2″. Free shipping and free returns. Available in 4 other colors. $95.00
kate spade new york ‘tiny’ flat Patent/ Cork. Cheerful patent trims the toe of a freshly flirty flat in cool cork. This is such a fun shoe for spring. Available in 2 other colors. Free shipping and free returns. $198.00
Free People Seamless Smocked Camisole. A smocked panel adds texture (and hides a belly!!) in a versatile layering camisole. Adjustable straps. Free shipping and free returns. Available in 3 other colors. $38.00
Estee Lauder ‘Pure Color’ Eyeshadow Palette Emerald Oasis. This versatile color palette allows you to play with intensities, mix and blend shades, express different attitudes—soft to bold. Holds five varying color intensities and finishes: matte, satin, shimmer or metallic. The highlighter is the magic touch. Use it to brighten the look and widen eyes instantly. The deepest shade structures and defines the eyes. Free shipping and returns. Available in 9 other palettes. $48.00
Articles of Society Acid Wash Skinny Jeans. This is so trendy for spring! Vibrant acid wash denim gives a pair of sleek and slim jeans an edgy vintage look. Inseam: 31″ with 11″ leg opening. Free shipping and free returns. Was: $69.00 Now: $46.23
Alex and Ani ‘Spike of Creativity’ Expandable Wire Bangle. Sleek spikes pair with smooth beading for a must-have bangle that easily adjusts to the perfect fit. Mix and match multiple styles for a playfully eclectic look. Anti-tarnish finish. Glass or crystal beads/goldtone or silvertone plate. Free shipping and free returns. $68.00
Cole Haan ‘Village’ Tech Tote. This grained-leather tote is cute and practical; it has a tech pocket inside to hold a tablet or slender laptop. It’s got an exterior slip pocket, interior zip, and cell-phone pockets. Free shipping and free returns. Fits most 15″ laptops. $268.00
Happy St. Patrick’s Day, and may the luck of the Irish be with you!
Illysia Neumann-Loreck
Thanks, Illysia, and I’m very much looking forward to your post on how to figure out what colors look good on you.
Very interesting article. I love this color and the skinny jeans are fab.
Those jeans would look great with a turquoise or navy top and so many other colors as well
I Love this Color . Very Fresh !!!
BraveChica.com
Such a great color for spring!