PANTONE REVEALS COLOR OF THE YEAR FOR 2015

 

 

Bye, bye Radiant Orchid, a new Pantone Colour of the Year, “Marsala,” has taken your place and is getting mixed reviews.

Every year, creative types in fashion and design eagerly anticipate which colour the Pantone Institute will crown the “Color of the Year.” This year’s winner goes to Marsala.

Yes, Marsala, the rich-flavored Sicilian wine you have splashed, or eaten, in a fancy dish of veal or chicken. So how will this color transition into fashion, beauty and design?

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

“Much like the fortified wine that gives Marsala its name, this tasteful hue embodies the satisfying richness of a fulfilling meal, while its grounding red-brown roots emanate a sophisticated, natural earthiness,” Leatrice Eiseman, the executive director of the Pantone Color Institute, said in the company press release. “This hearty, yet stylish tone is universally appealing and translates easily to fashion, beauty, industrial design, home furnishings and interiors.”

Last year’s color, Radiant Orchid, a shade of lilac/pink, was widely applauded and said to be a symbol of optimism. But this year’s winner, Marsala, is getting mixed reviews. Many critics are saying the color is unflattering and reminds them of a type of rust found in decrepit bathrooms or the obvious, dried blood.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

But Eiseman insists this year’s shade will appeal to men and women, and is flattering on all skin tones. “It’s a great go-to color for beauty.”

Pantone picks a new color every year based on the opinions of fashionistas as well as insiders from music, travel, movies and technology.

Now that Marsala has won the title, expect this color to pop up everywhere in fashion, beauty, technology and small home appliances.

 

—Toni-Marie Ippolito