DECORATING WITH JEANIE--2015 COLOR OF THE YEAR

Every year the people of the Pantone Color Institute decide on the Color of the Year. Unless you went to art school or work as a decorator or designer, you’ve probably never heard of Pantone or the Color Institute, but it’s the leading authority and provider of professional color standards for design industries and manufacturers around the world. At the Pantone Color Institute they study how color influences us, and they forecast trends, providing companies with information to help them determine which colors to use in their products. The Institute’s findings and choice of colors are responsible for everything from fashion to home décor, to industrial design and packaging, and more.

The 2014 Color of the Year was Radiant Orchid. We talked about Radiant Orchid last year on the blog. This year’s Color of the Year is Marsala, a creamy wine hue that’s about as far removed from Radiant Orchid as possible, as well as the last few years of color choices, which leaned toward bright tropical colors such as Emerald (2013), Tangerine Tango (2012), Honeysuckle (2011), Turquoise (2010), Mimosa (2009), and Blue Iris (2008).  

In contrast, Marsala is a deep, rich, earthy, dramatic and sophisticated color that will not only lend itself equally to fashion and home décor but will pair compatibly with a wide variety of other colors, including neutrals, taupes, grays, yellows, browns, greens, and blues.

Marsala is already being seen in everything from nail polish to makeup to clothing. You’ll soon see it popping up in furnishings and home décor. Will we see it in automobiles? Unlike Radiant Orchid, it's certainly a possibility.