PANTONE Fashion Color Report Spring 2016
Influenced by the world of art, new global doors opening and
the desire to disconnect from technology and unwind, designers this
season have gravitated toward a palette that is first and foremost
calming. Paying homage to the beauty of natural resources, colors
emerging in the Spring collections serve as vehicles that transport
wearers to more tranquil, mindful environs which encourage relaxation
first, followed by curiosity and exploration.
Designers were also inspired by the contrast of urban design
and lush vegetation, leading to unexpected color combinations and
collections reminiscent of architecture, travel and nostalgia. By
creating looks that truly represent the world we live in, both
constructed and organic, designers sought to awaken a sense of
reflection, followed by playful escapism. Artists, many of whom are
known for bold color usage and strong shapes and lines, played an
influential role in this season's styles – from Matisse, Picasso and
Frank Stella to Esther Stewart and Sam Falls. With Cuba and other
destinations south of the border top of mind, designers are playing with
courageous color statements that aren't afraid to be vibrant but at the
same time are combined with quieting, classic and more natural tones.
"Colors this season transport us to a happier, sunnier place
where we feel free to express a wittier version of our real selves,"
said Leatrice Eiseman, executive director of the Pantone Color
Institute. "With our culture still surrounded by so much uncertainty, we
are continuing to yearn for those softer shades that offer a sense of
calm and relaxation."
A Unisex Palette
Colors this season transcend cultural and gender norms. Vivid
brights give way to excitement and optimism, though quiet stability
prevails in this season’s palette. For Spring 2016 there are truly no
perceivable distinctions in color choices between the men’s and women’s
collections, both of which focus on a desire to breathe and reflect,
then play.
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The soothing, calming nature of colors in the Spring collections are led by Rose Quartz,
a persuasive yet gentle tone that conveys compassion and a sense of
composure. Like a serene sunset, flushed cheek or budding flower, Rose
Quartz reminds us to reflect on our surroundings during the busy but
lighthearted spring and summer months.
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The fashion and design communities, and consequently,
consumers, have been in love with orange for several seasons. Coming to
the fore this Spring is, Peach Echo,
a shade that emanates friendlier qualities, evoking warmth and
accessibility. It is an all-encompassing, tempered companion in the
playful orange family.
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Weightless and airy, like the expanse of the blue sky above us, Serenity
comforts with a calming effect, bringing a feeling of respite even in
turbulent times. A transcendent blue, Serenity provides us with a
naturally connected sense of space.
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A maritime-inspired blue, Snorkel Blue
plays in the navy family, but with a happier, more energetic context.
The name alone implies a relaxing vacation and encourages escape. It is
striking yet still, with lots of activity bursting from its undertones.
- While the majority of the Spring/Summer palette trends toward
calmness, a few diversions from the theme emerge that offer a contrast.
With Buttercup designers reveal a shining beacon transporting its wearer to a happier, sunnier place.
- A shade of aqua that leans toward the green family, Limpet Shell
is clear, clean and defined. Suggestive of clarity and freshness, its
crisp and modern influences evoke a deliberate, mindful tranquility.
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As in most any season, the need for neutrals arises. Essentially a basic, the subtlety of the lilac undertone in, Lilac Gray, adds a distinctive edge to this classic gray shade.
- The high energy Fiesta
is a harbinger of excitement, encouraging free-spirited exploration to
unknown but welcoming locales. A strong and fiery, yellow-based red, the
vivid Fiesta provides a stark contrast to the calming, softer nature of
this season’s palette.
- A transitional color that will take us through the seasons, Iced Coffee
manifests as another strong neutral for the season. With its natural
earthy quality, the softness and subtlety of Iced Coffee creates a
stable foundation when combined with the rest of this season’s palette.
- Green Flash
calls on its wearer to explore, push the envelope and escape the
mundane, radiating an openness that combines with the rest of the
palette in unexpected but serendipitous ways. The popularity of this
brilliant hue is representative of nature’s persistent influence even in
urban environments, a trend continuing to inspire designers.
Source:
Pantone
