“Marsala”-Pantone’s Color Of The Year

I love the beginning of a new year. Everything feels fresh and exciting. I have been voraciously reading up on the Spring trends and gathering information on how they can best be applied so that you benefit the most from the styles and tips and techniques I intend to share with you in the coming months.

Although our newsletter is just a little over 6 months old, I really enjoy being a part of it. The main reason is because of the unexpected degree of participation from you. So many of you have written in with your “comments, suggestions and questions” that all I have to do is pick one and our news letter practically writes itself.

Not only do your comments, suggestions and questions benefit everyone, they inspire me to want to learn more so I can provide the answers to your questions. Oh, and some of your comments are gems that any business would love to have posted on their Yelp page, Blog or other Ad medium.

Here is one of my favorites…I recently received this e-mail from my client Kathleen. It was such a thrill to read.

I had a “Michelle Moment” at a party the other day… A woman I had not seen in a while came up to me and told me how fabulous I was looking – the hair, the outfit, the colors I had on, etc.  I couldn’t help thinking that I owed it all to YOU!  I thought about your advice when getting dressed and had the confidence to pull it together and wear my clothes with confidence!

Thanks again-

Kathleen

Now if you received that from someone, wouldn’t it make your day?! I live to create these “Michelle Moments.” It certainly made mine!

When I receive such kudos, I realize how much what I do matters to you. And it inspires me to continue staying abreast about the latest in fashion so that I can help you be the best YOU, you can be. I have said it before many times but I will say it again, you are the reason why I love doing what I do. Please keep those comments coming, a girl’s head can never get too big.

Over the holidays I received a ton of e-mails. Some had a particular seasonal twist to them. Today I want to highlight one of those from one of my clients, David. I was excited about David’s question because it concerned “Pantone’s Color Of The Year” and I am just delighted over the color chosen.

Hi Michelle,

 

As you know I am a graphic designer. Color is a big part of my job.  Pantone recently released their color of the year: Marsala. I decided to e-mail you because I want to know if this color would work for me. And if so, can you make some suggestions on how I can wear it. I don’t wear ties anymore, so would it work in a shirt? 

Thanks, Michelle. I am liking your newsletter. My wife now receives them too, and she is excited to work with you this spring so you’ll be hearing from the both of us.

David

David, we are delighted that you e-mailed us with your questions. Although I follow Pantone’s color of the year, yearly, I am especially excited about this year because it is such a sophisticated color that works well for women and men. And I can’t say that every year.

Although Pantone’s color of the year isn’t strictly for fashion, it is particularly inspiring because of its versatility for fashion. In my opinion the color “Marsala” is an excellent choice for menswear clothing (Yes, shirts too!) and accessories.

Before I continue let me share with you who Pantone is and why they choose a “color of the year.” Pantone is the world-renowned authority on color. They provide color systems and the leading technology for the selection and accurate communication of color across a variety of industries. As a designer in the fashion industry, I used their color systems all the time when selecting the color of dyes for my fabrics, and the colors of prints, ribbons, laces and other trims. If you’ve ever wondered why so many designers seem to be showing all of the same or similar colors…well…now you know why.

Every year since 2000 Pantone has been designating a “color of the year,” to express in color what is happening globally:

“A color that will resonate around the world, the PANTONE Color of the Year is a reflection of what people are looking for, what they feel they need that color can help to answer. Not necessarily the hot fashion color of the moment, but a color crossing all areas of design which is an expression of a mood, an attitude, on the part of the consumers.”

“Marsala” is an earthy, robust color much like a fine red wine. The richness of the color is sophisticated yet down to earth and approachable, blending well with Whites, Taupes, Camels, and variations of Browns and Grays.

Here’s a few looks using “Marsala” in outfits for the weekend, business casual, and a 3-piece suit look:

Don’t let the richness of this deep, warm, red-brown hue limit you in pairing it with only neutrals. Try it with brighter blues, turquoise and teal greens, and hints of umber and amber. If you want to really make a statement try pairing it with an orangey red. As you can see, you can mix “Marsala” with these colors in a bold accent piece or in a complete outfit depending on your personality and style preferences. Even though “Marsala” is a considered a color, in these examples, it is treated like a neutral to pair up with color.

If you are not used to wearing much color, try wearing “Marsala” shown in a subtle stipe, check or plaid shirt or by adding a pop of it in an accessory such as a watch, scarf, hat, shoes, tie. You’ll be surprised on how universally appealing it is on many skin tones.

David, to answer your question on how you can personally wear this color, knowing your personality and coloring, I can see you wearing “Marsala” in a pullover sweater with a white shirt and teal green jeans for spring. When I shop for you in a few months, I will be sure to look for something like this for you! I hope that was helpful! And those of you who have booked sessions or plan on booking sessions please feel free to ask me to select something in “Marsala” for your sampling.

Next week we will talk about a great tip from my client Sheila who has added a great suggestion to our last newsletter regarding Angela’s question on wearing hosiery. Sheila, thanks for bringing up such a great tip. And you can look forward to another treat – a picture of Angela in sheer nude hose, rocking her LBD for her holiday party.

Now, it’s your turn. I’d love to hear from you.  Your insights and inspiration are appreciated so please share your stories in the comments below.

Blog me.

Love,

~Michelle