I’m hunkered down indoors today due to freezing temperatures and drizzle, but that can’t keep me from thinking about fashion. I’ve recently written about New Year’s resolutions and 2015 weight loss tips and now it’s time to write about the “official” color of 2015…drum roll please…MARSALA! Huh? What’s that you say? Marsala? Yep, according to Pantone, the global color authority, 2015’s color is Marsala.
“It’s a deliciously warm shade you can almost taste just by looking at it.”
Pantone Color Institute’s Leatrice Eisman
That’s what she says, but you’re probably thinking, “I’ve heard about the Italian wine called Marsala and I’ve heard it used in chicken and veal dishes, but fashion and décor? Not so much.” Hold on though, it’s actually do-able!
My daughter Kristen recently purchased (okay, I purchased!) this simple yet stunning leather sheath at Hemline in Austin. She chose it because of its style and fit, but it’s actually the color Marsala! It’s also kind of amazing. Who knew?!
This is the 15th year Pantone has chosen a color of the year. Its annual announcement influences product development and buying in a variety of industries, including fashion, home décor, beauty and cosmetics, and graphic design.
Despite grumblings heard upon the proclamation of its “now moment,” Marsala is actually a very versatile color. Just like the wine that shares its name, the tasteful hue embodies richness and earthiness all at once. It is a long, cool drink of sophistication.
The shade is also appealing to both men and women, unlike Pantone’s 2015 color of the year, Radiant Orchid, and its red-brown roots make the flavorful shade the perfect pick for apparel, accessories, beauty products, and home décor.
“Marsala enriches our mind, body, and soul, exuding confidence and stability,” Eiseman adds. “It is a subtly seductive shade and one that draws us in to its embracing warmth.”
Okay, maybe a bit dramatic being that we’re talking about a COLOR, but we’ll go with it anyway.
FASHION’S NEW FRIEND
A hit on red carpets and runways, Marsala is an elegant statement color that works on everything from clothing to jewelry, handbags to shoes.
I recently saw these two cuties at way affordable H&M:
This “bandage” dress by Herve Leger may not be for everyone, but these Gap jeans and low-top Cons are!
And since I’m never one to walk away from a good plaid, let’s not forget our men friends!
The color compliments all skin tones and is best paired with neutrals such as navy or black or complimentary hues like mustard and metallics.
A BEAUTIFUL SHADE FOR BEAUTY PRODUCTS
Sultry and subtle, Marsala is a great “go-to” color for highlighting cheeks or adding a pop of color to eyes, nails, and lips. It pairs beautifully with gold metallics and bronzes. I recommend using it in one area on the face only, adding punch to either your eyes, lips, or cheeks but not all three.
AT HOME WITH MARSALA
When it comes to home décor, you could say hints of Marsala have been around for years. Remember the popular green and burgundy trend? What about painting those dining room walls red? Maybe Marsala has been lurking at home all along!
Today’s tone, however, is complex and full-bodied without being too dominant or overpowering. Marsala is bold yet understated. It’s not an Asian red on the walls and it’s not green’s best friend anymore. It adds elegance to a room and is best reserved for accent pieces, accessories, and paint. Again, think subtle. Think throws and pillows, bedding and rugs.
Not surprising, Marsala is perfect for kitchens and dining areas. The color is great in a stripe pattern, making it terrific for tabletops, dinnerware, and window treatments.
Two things to also consider when choosing Marsala products are matte and sheen. A matte finish will enrich Marsala’s organic nature while adding sheen with convey glamour and luxury. In short, 2015’s Marsala is both dramatic and grounding. It is a full-bodied and earthy tone that brings warmth to any home or office.
Marsala is definitely a statement-making color and one that is both tasty and trendy right now. As with any “it” thing however, I don’t recommend going crazy with it but I do recommend having fun with it. Maybe even enjoy a glass of Marsala while doing it!
Beyond Words 