As with Fall 2015, 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, 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.
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.
