Pantone Fashion Color Report Fall 2012

Designers skillfully balance versatile neutrals with bold, spirited hues to showcase the magic of color.

Sketch by James Coviello www.jamescoviello.com inspiration The quirky color combinations of early '60s interior decorations - think Olive refrigerator and Pink walls. prominent colors We are using two color stories that use bold contrast colors to really make our prints pop: Tangerine Pink and Black Polka dots on a Midnight Slate background or Citron Lime and Aqua dots on a Light Rust background. signature color We are using bright accent colors, such as Tangerine Pink, in prints as well as color blocking details to add pops of color while keeping the palette warm and dark for fall. must-have item A '60s inspired wool swing coat in an unexpected color such as Light Rust. cosmetic accents Bright lips in Berry Citrus colors complement the accent colors sprinkled throughout the collection.

[Carlstadt, N.J.], February 13, 2012 - Pantone LLC, an X-Rite company, and the global authority on color and provider of professional color standards for the design industries, unveiled the PANTONE Fashion Color Report Fall 2012, a comprehensive overview of designers' use of color in their upcoming collections.

"By playing to consumers' practical side with versatile neutrals, and boosting their confidence with bold, spirited hues, this skillfully balanced palette has something for everyone," said Leatrice Eiseman, executive director of the Pantone Color Institute.

The Top Colors for
Women's Fashion for Fall 2012 Are:

The Top Colors for
Men's Fashion for Fall 2012 Are:

Like the name implies, Pink Flambé is a delicious, vibrant pink with a bit of heat to it. Pair it with vivacious and enticing Tangerine Tango [more info] for an ongoing retro feeling. Or, to bring a calming element to the mix, combine these vibrant warm tones with Ultramarine Green, a deep, cooling blue-green. Ethereal Rhapsody is a grayed-down purple that also encourages comfort and serenity with its quiet, muted tone.

Honey Gold, a mellow, burnished yellow, suggests the soft-muted tones of sunlight to brighten a fall day. Pair it with sensible and strong Olympian Blue, a patriotic blue that will surely make its way into fall and winter athletic apparel.

Rich and robust, French Roast is a tasty, sophisticated hue that is a great alternative to the black and charcoal basics typically worn in the fall. Other staple neutrals include elegant and versatile Titanium, the quintessential cool gray, and Rose Smoke, a veiled rose tone that pairs well with Rhapsody and Titanium.

Similar to this season's palette for women, there is something for everyone in the top color selections for men. Rhubarb, a deep, pungent hue, brings intensity to the palette, and is best paired with Tangerine Tango and Honey Gold for a collegiate look. To hit the ski slopes in style, combine Ultramarine Green with Bright Chartreuse and Olympian Blue for the ultimate in winter athletic apparel.

Moving from the vibrant tones of fall to more neutral basics, Whitecap Gray is a classic off-white, reminiscent of an overturning wave under a winter sky. Sea Fog, a gray with a muted purple cast, exudes just the right amount of confidence and masculinity. Pair these two neutrals with the strength of Titanium for a subtle and sophisticated direction. Combine all three neutrals in a dress shirt or tie with basic, versatile French Roast for a classic fall look.

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