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.
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.
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.
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.
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, withlots of activity bursting from its undertones.
While the majority of the Spring/Summer palette trends toward calmness, a few diversions from
thetheme emerge that offer a contrast. With Buttercup designers reveal a shining beacon
transporting it's 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.
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
unknownbut 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.
I am finding this whole colour collection a really versatile and usable collection especially for my
Baby Boutique
Rose Quartz. Pop along and have a peeking my little store
here
