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A recent testimonial from one of
Lee's Color/Design students:
"I had written the presentation geared to the national sales managers so was a little nervous about the advertising people showing up. Well, it was a rousing success with hearty applause and, of course, I felt great.
I gave credit to you, Leatrice, for all the information I garnered and the workshop. And coupled with my good eye for photos, it was a succinct and stimulating class for those people."
~Ginger Parnes
Welcome to our brand new blog. It’s all about keeping you current on:
- Color News and Views
- Color Trends
- Color Factoids
- Color Perceptions
- Color Facts (or Fiction)
….as well as quotable quotes from our colorful leader and color expert, Leatrice (Lee) Eiseman.
Lee has written seven books on color. She is the Executive Director of the Pantone Color Institute, the director of the Eiseman Center for Color Information and Training and a color/design consultant to many industries. Fortune Magazine has named her as one of the 10 top decision makers for her work in color and she is widely quoted in the media.
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FORECASTS ARCHIVES
December 11, 2009
For those of you who may not be aware. Lee Eiseman names the color of the year for Pantone.
The color of the year for 2010 (drumroll) is Pantone's TURQUOISE.
The Associated Press posted an article announcing Turquoise as the PANTONE Color of the
Year for 2010. In the article, editor Samantha Critchell includes quotes from Leatrice Eiseman,
Tommy Hilfiger, interior designer Charlotte Moss, Kristin Martin, brand manager at Le Creuset,
and Jane Schoenborn, design director at Lilly Pulitzer. The article has also just appeared in
top newspapers including the LA Times, the Chicago Tribune and The Miami Herald. Yahoo
Finance has mentioned it, too, showing how important color impact is in the world of finance...
Click the link below to read the full article.
http://www.newsvine.com/_news/2009/12/07/3603525-top-color-for-2010-is-transporting-turquoise
For the full report click
http://www.pantone.com/downloads/articles/pdfs/Pantone-FCR-sp2010f.pdf
December 31, 2009
Design Guide The Source for Fine Home Furnishings, Products
and Services
Dallas-Fort Worth 16th Edition
Color Trends
As Director of the Eiseman Center for Color Information and Training,
executive director of the Pantone Color Institute, color forecaster and
consultant, a published author and self-proclaimed color addict, Leatrice
Eiseman is easily identified as America's leading color expert. Each year
she scours the globe-from market to market-looking for refreshing
inspiration in every corner of the earth, before translating her thoughts
into the next year's much-anticipated Color and Design Trends forecast.
High fashion reigns supreme in setting the pace for color, pattern and design
trends, "but look around you," says Eiseman, "color inspiration is everywhere."
The entertainment industry, food, graphics, packaging, technology and worldly
cultures-not to mention our own personal moods, ambitions, and needs-are a
few of the social influences that shape the way we see and apply color in our
everyday lives, she explains. "In this economy, people tend to 'burrow' as an
at-home diversion," she states, which creates a society that is less prone to
want to throw away or start over from scratch when it comes to creating a
comfortable and stylish home atmosphere. However, "People are always looking
to freshen and feather their nest," which is precisely what Eiseman aspires to
provoke in the lives of interior designers, decorators and homeowners...
 
Unusual color combinations create an unexpected look of sophistication"
traditional color hues are rapidly becoming a concept of the past." Another
suggestion-"add some whimsy,"-she recommends. "Show stopping colors
grab your attention and move you to stop and smile."
  
"...other pieces of advice include mixing bold vibrant shades with darker hues
for a seamless juxtaposition, or play up the neutral toned elements in your
home by accenting them with pops of dynamic and unpredictable colors."
  
Looking towards the future of color and design, Eiseman gravitates towards
aesthetic ideas that not only impact us now, but will unquestionably have an
even greater impact on us down the road.
People surround themselves with the colors that suit their lifestyle and their
moods," says Eiseman. Whether it's bold, bright, risk-taking hues, or a soft,
subdued natural palette that brings you home, coloring your world is about
evoking an emotion and capturing the soul. Armed and ready with inspiration
from the color queen herself, it's time to let your true colors shine through.
October 9, 2009
The Brilliance of Autumn
Abby Penning
Skin Inc.
September 2009
A bold flash of color is something many people are looking for these
days and they aren't being let down in the realm of makeup. The hues
for eyes, lips, cheeks and skin this fall are offering a much-needed jolt
of energy, blending well thought-out basics with smart swaths of red,
blue, purple, green, pink, orange and yellow.
"I call fall a study in contrasts. The colors are more unique and
thoughtful than we usually find for autumn," says Leatrice Eiseman,
the executive director of the Pantone Color Institute and founder of
www.morealivewithcolor.com. Acknowledging the season's pensive
mood but also noting a touch of newer things on the horizon, J. Scott
Berry, a professional makeup artist, and southeast regional manager
and skin care and spa consultant with Repechage, says, "Colors are
more sophisticated. I'd sum up the look as a return to basics with a
new millennium flair."
Eiseman adds, "Fashion designers are acknowledging the tricky
economic time by using dependable, fundamental basics, but people
also don't want to do the same old, same old, which is a great place for
cosmetics to come in and offer more of an opportunity to use color."
Of course, spa professionals and makeup artists are in a perfect
position to provide clients with the additional brightness new seasonal
colors can bring, so now is the time to invest in key new makeup items
for autumn.
Radiant Complexion
"As an esthetician, I'm most thrilled about the sheer foundations in
Leesburg, Florida. Well-maintained skin-always a top priority in spas-is
being showcased for the fall, and letting the complexion be one of
makeup's main features helps spa professionals display some of their
favorite techniques. "The look is really an incredible, perfect skin
foundation, so if the skin is healthy, it looks beautiful, and you can
just let it shine through," Berry explains.
To even out a facial palette, neutral hues in warm beiges, cool
taupes and creamy tans provide great base tones. "They're classic
shades that go with everything, and they're great bookends for the
more vibrant colors of blue, red and purple," Eiseman notes.
Clean, flawless skin also shows off a woman's personal coloring, but it
needs the right prep work, too. "Making makeup look great on the skin
is definitely all about exfoliation and hydration," says Tricia Campbell,
director of education for Jane Iredale-The Skin Care Makeup. "You need
a good moisturizer and a good eye cream; eyes need as much hydration
as possible."
Additionally, a simple step can help cosmetics stay in place. "Makeup
disappears as you wear it throughout the day," Berry explains. "You can
avoid this by simply applying a primer underneath foundation and eye
shadow. It's a quick, two-second step that helps the makeup last so
much longer." Kimberly Frey, creative director for Brush Up With Barbara
and Mineral Mine, agrees, saying, "Foundation primer is a perfect way of
prepping the skin for cosmetics. It helps so the makeup doesn't grab,
caking up in places. It just glides right on with a primer."
Properly maintained, well-treated skin offers a healthy, vibrant aspect
to any makeup look and, with an eve.smooth complexion, the possibility
to highlight certain colors and features on the face is even greater.
Creating that beautiful base of flawless skin is always one of the most
vital aspects of a good cosmetics look, but it is essential with this autumn's
focus on the skin.
Shining eyes
The eyes are the facial feature where some of the boldest, brightest,
most unique colors take the stage this fall. Serious base shades in
brown, green and gray are lightened up with pretty pops of pinkish
reds and bold purples for the eyelids, while deep shades of blue and
indigo are offering a particularly powerful punch in the liner department.
Berry comments, "There are a lot of earth tones, but they're not the earth
tones of several years ago, which were pretty dull. These have some
vibrancy, even if they are a little more matte, especially on the eyes."
Warm browns, earthy greens and yellow golds will help to ground
the more vivid eye shadow hues, as will an enriched shade of gray.
"The iron shade is a strong gray with undertones of brown. It's very
versatile and looks great against almost any skin tone," Eiseman
explains, noting that iron also matches well when mixed with little
bursts of pinkish orange and dusty deep pink on the lids.
Another strong shadow shade-purple-also isn't going anywhere,
although it's not quite the smoky hue from seasons past. "It's very
practical that purple is sticking around because people can reuse the
purple products they already own," says Eiseman. "To make it look
new, you can use different ways-contrast it with lighter, brighter color,
or wear it in a different way."
 
Those seeking a darker, smokier look don't have to go far in this
season's cosmetics shades to find a little more edge. "Eye shadows
for the fall include a sheer pink, a taupe nearly nude shade and a
smoky, metallic gray. Metal and rich metallic shades are really big for
the fall," Campbell notes. Eiseman also sees a metallic sheen to the
season, though she says she's noticing golds, silvers, bronzes and coppers
in more burnished, delustered states.
Eye liner-always a staple to help eyes stand out-is showing up in
interesting colors this season, but there is one in particular that's a
must. Campbell explains, "A key color for fall this year is blue-it is the
new black when it comes to the eyes. Using a blue eye liner on the inside
rim of the eyes really helps them pop, opens up the eye and makes the
whites of the eyes appear brighter." Eiseman also sees the presence of blue
in the season, saying, "It's not too bright, more subdued, but it's a classic
spring color that is showing up in the fall, which really helps bridge the seasons
and brings more versatility from the spring to the rest of the year."
This autumn's blue brings a little more moodiness than the traditional
spring pastel tints, though. In fact, to create a bold evening look, Campbell
suggest the following: "Take a blue eye pencil to cover the lash line and
use it lightly all the way up to the lid crease. Then, for a night out, add a
twilight gray shadow over the top of it for really intense, smoky eyes."
Multiple shadows and shades aren't always necessary for a bold, sought-after
eye, however. "You don't have to have three separate eye shadows to get a
three eyes shadow-look," says Berry. "With just one shadow, you can apply a
base loosely with a large brush. Then, with the same color and using a small
brush, you can create some contouring along the brow bone and in the crease.
Next, you can wet that same shadow to use as a liner, applying it along the lash
line with a very fine brush."
Frey also suggests refreshing eyes after a long workday, saying "A shadow
or liner color's intensity is really what changes from day to night in makeup,
and to make sure your eye makeup doesn't get washed out, an eyeliner sealer
can be used. It can help intensify the same color from a more work look to an
evening one while still using the same shades."
Jeweled Lips
Full and vibrant for autumn, lips are getting an infusion of color courtesy
of shades such as pinks touched with rose and orange, nutmeg-tinged
copper and the stalwart red. "I love red lips," says Berry. "Vibrant, bright
colors on the lips have been trying to sneak in since about 2002, and
American women really hadn't been buying it, but more and more, they
are coming around. Nothing is more attractive than red lips, and it doesn't
have to be fire-engine red, but just some good, bright color." With cooler
hues prevailing on the eyes, the mouth is a feature on the face that can
harbor warmer color. For example, a bold rose red color is something Eiseman
is also enjoying this fall. "It's not a bright cherry red, but a more vibrant
rosy hue. It's a great color coming into the holidays," she explains, calling
it a happy marriage of pink and red. Additionally, she notes, "It's really
flattering next to the skin."
Seeing a quieter side of autumn's lips, Campbell says the metallics will
also be moving down from the lids to the mouth, but in a more lip-appropriate,
warmer tone. "With the blues, silvers and metallics on the eyes, a great
nutmeg, coppery lip gloss gives the lips just the right glittery sheen with
a touch of smooth color," she explains. However, she notes, "You can do a
more dramatic lip too, maybe a really deep berry, to pair with really
silvery-sheen eyes."
Pairing the right lip color with the right eye color is really the target to
hit this fall, with some of the best matches being the hues opposite each
other on the color wheel. Eiseman suggest a more goldenly pink hue on
the lips to match eyes in a deeper purple, or going with a rose red to match
with iron shaded lids.
Pairing the bolder colors also requires a delicate touch with the texture,
Frey notes. "I think the matte lip is coming back around. It's one of those
things where everything old is new again," she says. "However, it's not
powdery matte; it's more like a lip stain that is geared toward a more neutral
look." The fresh pinks, reds and copper tones of lip glosses, stands and sticks
will help the mouth look lively this autumn-it's just a matter of finding the shade
that suits each client best.
Luminous Color
This fall really offers makeup options for anyone's taste, from metallically
sheened natural hues in iron and earth tones to deep, bold touches of
red, purple and blue. "The uniqueness of the season is going to come
from the different ways the colors are combined," says Eiseman. "It's
time to do something experimental-go for the unusual, the unique. Build
a beautiful mosaic out of the colors. You want to do what flatters the skin
tone the most. To only use warm colors on warm skin tones and cool colors
on cool skin tones is really doing a disservice to a woman, I think. You need
to have a balance of temperatures."
This season's shades are great to mix and match in whatever ways a
person prefers. "Everything is so versatile," Campbell notes. "You can
use a nude or nutmeg pencil to line the lips to go with a coppery
gloss, and use gold or silver to line the eyes for a shimmery pop."
You can also use the variety of hues to revamp the look a a client who
doesn't have too much to spare for a whole new color palette. "The
bolder colors are great as highlights, and they also acknowledge the
more conservative mind-set of the consumer," Eiseman explains. "Using
the color combinations helps give people something new."
Really, the key for this fall is to follow what looks best in a bold way. "If
you add a little color to the face and know how to do it right, it can give
someone a whole different-and a much better-day." Berry says.
August 24, 2009
Lee’s South African Tour
As some of you may already know, my assistant Bobbie and I visited South
Africa recently as I was asked to do presentations in Johannesburg, Durban and
Cape Town. Our hosts could not have been more hospitable (and fun). The
sponsors were Decorex Joburg 2009 together with Plascon Paints as the show
sponsor and media-partner DSty. Their mission was to ‘’guide visitors through
the maze of trends towards the highway of conscious living”. Now in its 16th
year, the show is the definitive mix of the emerging and the established, manufacturers
and suppliers – large and small.
Their theme was definitely green as they spoke to edible landscapes, food
forests and peach-pip pebble floors. Geothermal heating, vermiculture, earth-friendly
décor and salvage chic. Green is the buzzword du jour, giving rise to do-good
design, the inventive-reuse of hand-me-downs and a flare-up of all things organic.
Sprouting a forest of eco-caring ideas was the recurring theme for Decorex
Joburg 2009. The event showed visitors that it is possible to live an elegantly
frugal life by doing more with less. Decorex Joburg forms part of the Decorex SA
portfolio of decor shows and is owned by Thebe Exhibitions & Projects Group.
This of course, resounded with me as I have been including the green theme in
my thinking for the past several yers. Obviously, this is a world-wide concern.
According to Melanie Robinson, Decorex director, the show sets the example with
green exhibition practices, using the event as a role model towards greener living.
“While concepts such as ‘edible landscapes’ might sound slightly ‘out there’, by trying
radical ideas we can spark off positive energy to take exhibitors, staff and suppliers as
well as visitors on the exciting, lifesaving journey of going green.”
It is most encouraging that a new generation of designers featured at Decorex
shows are driven as much by ethics as by aesthetics,” she adds. “This is in step
with their new responsibility to analyze the life cycle of their designs and the items
they use: how a product is made, how it will be used and where it will go at the end
of its functioning life.“
The exhibition aimed at making Decorex SA a zero waste event, from reducing
packaging and re-use of materials such as banners to eco-friendly printing and
re-imagined green breathing spaces throughout the exhibition.
“The economic climate has catapulted recession decor to new heights, as opulence
and glamour make way for a new form of minimalism: getting by with what we have,
topped up with inventiveness”, adds Cairey Slater, general manager: exhibitions. “Add
eco-caring products to the mix and the result is a dynamic eclectic look – seen by many
as the decor style of the 21st century.”
SHOW THEME: NEW FUSION – URBAN AND CHIC
“The overall show theme ‘ New Fusion: urban and chic’ fits Joburg like a glove,”
says Nika Smit, Decorex marketing manager. “It reflects the trend-setting international
outlook, African roots, pioneering thinking, green consciousness and doing things on
a larger-than-life scale.”
“Edgy, confident, individual and highly expressive, Joburg has an urban attitude like
no other,” she adds. “More than a city, it’s a hatching place for all that’s über-Africa.
When people relax they do so in free style and to their own street beat – in penthouses
in the newly-revived centre of the city, town-houses in the suburbs, bohemian-chic studios
in a gritty industrial part of town; an eco-estate with the ‘best’ address, or a well-loved
family home in the warm heart of Soweto.”
PLASCON 2010 COLOR FORECAST 
Plascon’s 16-year relationship with Decorex SA as sponsor resulted in the most
colorful collaboration ever with the launch of the Plascon 2010 Color Forecast. In
step with global attention focusing firmly on Africa, this new collection inspired by
the splendor of the continent connects with its creative energy and natural splendor.
 
The four palettes of the Plascon 2010 Color Forecast -- Northern Exotica, Southern
Spectacle, Eastern Promise and Western Desert -- each represent the natural, cultural
and historical riches of their namesake geographical regions in Africa. Northern Exotica
is awash with blues and whites inspired by the French, Arabic and African influences on
Morocco and Tunisia. Southern Spectacle is an eclectic mix of purples, mustards, greens
and blues inspired by the diversity of South Africa. Eastern Promise is a warm palette of
vibrant spice colors including reds, oranges and yellows, drawn from the printed textiles
of the Samburu and Masai tribes of Kenya and beyond, while Western Desert is a collection
of rust, burnt umber and stone, drawing on the colours of the Namib and the markets of
Nigeria, Says Anne Roselt, Plascon Color Manager, “2009 focused on the “green movement”
and this continues into 2010. However, wherever we researched we found inspiration from
Africa coming up and therefore we have identified Africa as the major trend influence
coming through for 2010.”
 
Reasons cited for this include South Africa’s selection as host nation for the 2010
FIFA World Cup. “Add to this Nelson Mandela’s enduring global appeal and the fact that
the latest international newsmaker, President Barack Obama, has roots in Kenya.
Filmmakers are increasingly choosing the Mother Continent as the location for movies
and holidaymakers are hard pressed to find anything even close to the magnificence of
our National parks. And, not only did this year’s New York Fashion Week see African
designs showcased alongside the likes of Ralph Lauren and Louis Vuitton, but these
fashion greats themselves drew on the continent for inspiration for their own collections.”
I couldn’t agree more. Actulally, when I was first invited to do the presentations,
I was struck by the fact that I had already devloped a palette for the Pantone View
Home forecast for 2010 that was based on that stunningly beautiful continent. And when
Anne sent me her gorgeous palettes, I was vastly impressed by her choices and combinations
of color based on the four geographic regions of Africa mentioned above.
May 18, 2009
Pantone's color seers say earth tones for fall
By Catherine Dayrit
New York--Each season, the world-renowned color experts at Pantone release a report detailing
the palette of hues that fashion designers expect to be indicative of the season. And for fall,
designers are placing their bets on a rainbow of earth tones, from true red and deep orange
to vibrant blue.
"The fall 2009 palette is more unique and thoughtful than the typical autumnal hues of
years past," Pantone Color Institute Executive Director Leatrice Eiseman said in the report.
"Designers recognize the desire for fundamental basics that speak to the current economic
conditions, but also understand the need to incorporate vibrant color to grab the consumers"
eyes and entice them to buy."
Helena Krodel, spokeswoman for the Jewelry Information Center, says that what these
trends mean for jewelry is a proliferation of large gemstones in earth tones or rich deep
colors. The stones will be combined with chain-links or charms in precious metals, making
for oversized statement necklaces.
As for basic colors for the season, designers surveyed by Pantone selected "Creme
Brulee," a grayed-down beige; "Iron," a grounding color somewhere between brown
and gray that coordinates well with all colors in the palette; and "Nomad," which serves
as a bridge between the beige and light gray. Such tones serve as an ideal canvas for
jewelry, whether that means sticking to the monotone look with one of the all-metal
statement necklaces that will be big for fall, or selecting colored gemstones with intense
hues that pop.
Leatrice says that of the 10 colors, the neutral Iron received the highest rating from
designers, a choice that points to practicality.
"Designers are very aware that consumers are conscious of how they're spending their
money," she says. "They want something very consistent."
She also adds that over the last few seasons there has been more of a trend toward
"trans-seasonal" dressing, in which apparel and accessories can be used from one season
and into the next, so trends linger and aren't thrown out the door quite so quickly.
"If you love something, it's a shame to hang it in the closet," she says.
May 22, 2009
The Color and Texture Forecast
By Paul Makovsky for Metropolis Magazine
In uncertain times, some manufacturers emphasize subtlety and restraint, while others offer glossy bursts of optimism.
Trend forecasting is a subtle science, comprising equal parts research, intuition, and artful conjecture. It's also big business, with textile, automotive, and interiors companies laying out huge sums for insight into tomorrow's consumer impulses. Given the gloom and doom in the global economy, it's no surprise that positivity is a key motif in marketing circles today.Take Pantone's color of the year, Mimosa, which, like its bubbly namesake, should nudge viewers (or drinkers) toward a sunnier outlook. "Yellow exemplifies the warmth and nurturing quality of the sun, properties we as humans are naturally drawn to for reassurance," says Leatrice Eiseman, executive director of the Pantone Color Institute. But color is only one piece of the design-forecasting puzzle-texture plays an essential role as well, particularly when it comes ti textiles, carpets, and wall coverings. To better understand how these attributes are driving product and interior design, Metropolis polled 22 industry experts, asking each to choose a color and a texture that seem especially relevant now. Their answers form a sort of metaforecast of the look and feel of 2009 and beyond.
March 23, 2009
Skin Inc.
Excerpt from Approachable Beauty
by Abby Penning
How can color image consulting be enhanced during this gloomy enconomy?
Dawning in the midst of a gloomy economy, spring, the traditional season of renewal, may
not seem as refreshing this year. However, the incoming cosmetics colors - richly undertoned
neutrals that blend with bold shades of blue, red, pink, green and yellow - may be just the
thing to break through the gray gloom.
Leatrice Eiseman, executive director of the Pantone Color Institute and founder of
www.morealivewithcolor.com, agrees, noting that the array of exciting hues now
available in shadows, lipsticks, blushes and even mascaras can help keep things interesting
for those providing cosmetics services. “Makeup has got to offer alternatives,” she says.
“It’s about what looks good and works for different skin tones, and makeup is more
experimental and doesn't cost as much, so you can play with more options,” Eiseman
explains. “We can’t ignore that elephant in the room—the economy—but when you are
going through bad times, people don’t aspire any less to looking good.”
Super Fushia Salmon Lavender Vibrant
Lemon Red Rose Green
Palace Lucite Slate Rose Dark
Blue Green Gray Dust Citron
This information was compiled from Pantone, Inc.'s Spring 2009
Fashion Color Report. Pantone, Inc. is a global company that
standardizes the language of color. The Pantone Color Institute
studies physiological aspect of color and forecasts color needs.
Leatrice Eiseman is the executive director for Color Institute and
founder of morealivewithcolor.com The color names above were
assigned by Pantone, Inc.
All eyes on you
Eiseman expects to see gilded eyelids for the spring, with just a light gold or
silver dusting for the daytime and a little heavier hand playing a part for nights.
“We started in the fall with gilding everything, and that’s going to continue into
spring, with maybe just a little softer version,” she says. “Match with that yellow,
which is such a big color in fashion right now, because gold and yellow are natural
companions. The color of the year for 2009 is mimosa yellow, which is a softer,
kind of chamois type of yellow. Then there is also super lemon, which is incredibly
vibrant and offers another variation on the yellow theme. One is more subtle, while
the other is more of a bold, summery shade.”
Eiseman continues, “Lavender is continuing the purple trend that was big in the
fall, but it transitions to spring with a softer, more summery hue. It’s lightened,
and almost has a mystical aspect. And there’s also palace blue, which is like a royal
blue, but not quite. It’s very vibrant and not dark like a navy, so it ends up very
classic and with a great bit of sparkle.”
The blending trend is also something Eiseman has caught on to. “The neutral
colors in fashion are being used as a background to bounce the other, bolder colors
off of,” she explains. “One of the colors, a rose dust, is really a beige with rose
undertones, so it’s not just taupe-y gray, but has a really interesting note underneath.
There’s also a slate gray, which has very decidedly blue undertones. With cosmetics,
you can really build around that undertone, bringing the colors across the face,
beautifully coordinating a look and keeping it from being boring.”
Make it work
If you think creating a cohesive look with this season’s bold colors seems to present
a bit of a challenge, there are a few tricks you can use to help any makeup look
magnificent. One is balancing the face using opposite colors on different features.
“There’s more of a use of complementary colors together—those colors across the
wheel from each other,” says Eiseman. “Experiment with opposite colors, blues and
purples with the yellows and oranges. For example, if you have purplish lipstick, you
can do gold gilding on the lashes, or if your eyes have lavender touches, you can have
more of a warm-based color on the lips.”
The key is, even if things are tough and makeup’s colors seem mismatched to
the mood of the country and client, these brilliant hues are actually what you
can look to for inspiration. “If the colors are dismal, they can lead to being more
depressed, so maybe it’s the time to wear something with color to make yourself
feel better,” Eiseman suggests. “You can’t ignore what’s going on, but you find
ways to keep your spirits up, and colorful cosmetics can definitely help with that.”
A springtime frolic
Whether that means indulging in a wine-hued mascara, gold-flecked lip gloss or
beautiful new bronzer, tight times and the rebirth that comes with spring can be a
boon to makeup offerings. “Get out of the ordinary,” Eiseman urges. “That’s the
beauty of cosmetics. You can try new colors in accents and touches, and it helps create
a bridge to using more of that exciting color. And the spring is really the best season to
try something new.”
In other fashion news, Joy Sewing of the Houston Chronicle Online writes about spring colors, and quotes Leatrice Eiseman as saying, "In fashion, color often reflects what's going on in the world around us. Bright colors can help conjure feelings of happiness, while more subdued tones evoke a sense of calm." Sewing goes on to discuss how black and white have also taken a backseat to color this season.
Women's Wear Daily
The Tone for Tough TImes
by Cecily Hall
Top 10 Pantone Colors for fall
Designer palettes for fall seem to acknowledge the major issue of the day - the
recession. "The most popular colors for fall really represent a thoughtful palette. That's a
direct outcome of what's happening in the world around us, said Leatrice Eiseman, executive
director of the Pantone Color Institute, which surveyed designers showing at New York
Fashion Week to determine the most directional colors. She said the selection of somber,
neutral colors still has rays of light that will keep things interesting. :Designers are aiming
to comfort people - but at the same time, they have to still grab consumers' attention," she
said. Some, such as Kimora Lee Simmons for Baby Phat, worked in patriotic colors. "In times
like these, consumers have a tendency to return to patriotic colors," Eiseman said.
PANTONE 18-1306 IRON
Iron is the new black. Eiseman of Pantone said this shade of gray has a brown cast, "which
makes it a warmer, stronger gray. And it's not as foreboding as black." Its practicality and
dependability make this shade a staple for most apparel items in one's wardrobe, she said.
Consumers can combine it with more dramatic colors in the palette, such as number-two-ranked
Purple Heart, Honey Yellow (#5) or Rapture Rose (#6). "By using this color, designers are
acknowledging the practical, but mixing it with other colors in the palette will offer some
uniqueness," Eiseman said. Designers who incorporated this color into their fall collections
include Carmen Marc Valvo, Reem Acra and Charlotte Ronson.
PANTONE 18-3520 PURPLE HEART
Elie Tahari and Shaun Kearney for Cynthia Steffe weaved this deep version of purple into
their collections. "Purple is the most creative and complex color," Eiseman said. "It has been
so strong the last two seasons, and because people have been holding onto what they have,
they're more comfortable with purple now." This particular shade, she noted, is a fresh version,
"but it's still comforting to people." Mixing the color with other palette favorites, such as
eighth-ranked Warm Olive or Nomad, ranked ninth, "is a way to take basic color and give it a
more creative punch." Eiseman added that many designers may be seizing the opportunity to
incorporate the color into their accessories pieces, such as jewelry and scarves.
PANTONE 19-4125 MAJOLICA BLUE
Lela Rose, Brian Reyes and Maria Pinto - whose inspiration for fall was "a sense of smoky
calmness" - played with this variation on blue. "The blues, along with the grays, are considered
the most dependable, steadfast constant in people's wardrobes, Eiseman said. She added, "It's
not dull, because it has some interesting undercurrents and more complexity. It could be described
as a deep teal blue. " Playing colors such as Honey Yellow and Warm Olive against Majolica Blue
"make this color the kind of thing that all kinds of different consumers can reach for in their
wardrobes."
PANTONE 19-1759 AMERICAN BEAUTY
"Here's the feeling of patriotism at its finest in this palette," Eiseman said. "This is a true red,
meaning that it has some cool undertones and some warmth. It's a beautifully balanced color,
so it's easy for anyone to use." Designers Yigal Azrouel and Alice Temperley for Temperley London
worked this shade of red into their collections. Eiseman said American Beauty is an ideal color
for retailers because it has broad appeal and it looks good on so many people. She also admitted
that her first thought when she saw the color was to wonder how Michelle Obama and her
daughters, Sasha and Malia, would wear it. " I would think that designers are really going to try
hard to interject this color into her wardrobe," she said.
PANTONE 16-1143 HONEY YELLOW
"Honey Yellow is this fall's example of how important yellow has become to people,"
Eiseman said. Because of the deeper tone, "It's more subdued, which makes it the perfect
color for autumn." Christian Cota, who described his inspiration fro the season as "imagining
taking a trip to the center of the earth and back, exposing layers of minerals jagged edges of
rocks," played with Honey Yellow, as did James Coviello. Said Eiseman: "Combining Burnt
Sienna(#7) with this color is a classic, but one that's more unique would be mixing it together
with Rapture Rose."
PANTONE 17-1929 RAPTURE ROSE
A bright spot in the palette, Rapture Rose is a surprise for the season. "This color isn't
typical at all, but I think that designers are turning to it for a need to see a feminine and
playful, but still very warm, color," Eiseman said. She added that Rapture Rose could combine
easily with most other colors in the top 10, especially Iron, Burnt Sienna and Warm Olive.
"Another idea would be to mix it with American Beauty - reds and pinks together are unexpected,
a real attention-getter." Tadashi Shoji said of Rapture Rose , one of the most important colors of
his collection: "The color's freshness and vividness offer a bright future and clarity in an economic
climate that desperately needs a stimulus plan."
PANTONE 17-1544 BURNT SIENNA
Christian Siriano incorporated Burnt Sienna into his fall palette, saying his inspiration
was Egypt: "Through the richness of the sand and through the stone of the architecture-each
color is warm, bold and has the feeling of luxury." Alvin Valley and Rebecca Taylor worked with
the color for fall, too. Burnt Sienna is a fall's answer to orange, but Eiseman pointed out the red
and brown undertones which makes it a much more versatile orange than others. "It's very
dependable, it speaks of autumn and it's a classic with a color like number-one-ranked Iron," she
said. And mixing it together with colors such a Honey Yellow or Warm Olive would add more
dimension to any item. "You could also take this and give it a twist with a color like Purple Heart."
PANTONE 15-0646 WARM OLIVE
"People can recognize the complexity going on with Warm Olive," Eiseman said. This
variation of green is a spin on the typical greens one thinks of, she noted. "It's not your
usual citrus spring green. Because it has a lot of yellow, it's more exotic than a spring color."
She said the green family returned to the spotlight in the Nineties and has steadily climbed. "It's
been really strong lately, because working with greens is not a trend - this idea of 'green'- everyone
gets it...Designers are concerned about being eco-conscious." Along with designers such as Pamella
Protzel Scott for Ella Moss and Adam Lippes, Thuy Diep for Thuy also worked with this color, noting
that her inspiration was "a sense of renewal and optimism."
PANTONE 16-1212 NOMAD
David Rodriguez and Catherine Malandrino included Nomad in their palettes for fall, as
did Tracy Reese, Reese also noted that her most important color was arrange of different
beiges, "which serve as a foundation for pairing with rich and saturated brights." Eiseman
said, "Both Nomad and Creme Brulee [#10} are an acknowledgment of the fact that we need
to have good, practical colors anchor the others colors. They can provide the background for a
brighter color. "We'll see this color quite a bit in outerwear, but if a woman buys a coat in
Nomad, she can complement i with a sweater in Rapture Rose underneath."
PANTONE 13-1006 CREME BRULEE
"This is a great neural color that goes with everything else - put it next to any of the colors
in the top 10, and it works with any on them," Eiseman said. She noted that Creme Brulee is
really a warmer, softer variation of the color white for the season. "Something we're seeing on
the red carpet is a return to lighter gowns ---off-white, white--- I think it's an ongoing influence,"
she said. Nanette Lepore, Wichy Hassan for Miss Sixty and Kimora Lee Simmons for Baby Phat
all worked with Creme Burlee for fall.
Elizabeth Wellington of the Philadelphia Inquirer Online writes about Slumdog Millionaire's finale, and notes, "I thought it was extremely interesting that in the final scene of the movie of the year, Latika, played by Freida Pinto is wearing the Pantone Color of the Year, mimosa yellow." Wellington also quotes Leatrice Eiseman as saying, "It's everywhere. This shade is about warmth and sunlight, hope and optimism. It's about looking forward to a bright future."
September 12, 2008
Purple Passion
The Wichita Eagle
by Bonnie Bing
Call it eggplant, amethyst, grape, violet, boysenberry, aubergine, plum or wine. Whatever the
name, the colors you'll see a lot of this fall are from the purple family. Purple, a color tied to
royalty, reigns this season. For designers, many of whom had stayed with the somber colors
for many seasons, included bright, rich jewel tones in their collections for fall.
Among those who chose highly saturated purple tones for their fall lines were Tracy
Reese, Zac Posen, Peter Som, Elie Tahari,Kimora Lee Simmons for Baby Phat, the always
colorful Betsy Johnson and Douglas Hannant. Hannant says that a must-have for fall is a
spiral seam dress in imperial purple. He's so fond of purple that he told a source at the Pantone
Color Institute that he thinks it's an excellent color to paint a room.
Leatrice Eiseman, author of several books about color and the executive director of the
Pantone Color Institute, said, "I can tell you that purple is ubiquitous -- in fashion, home
furnishings, and its 'dual personality' is what makes it so interesting.
"Purple has a bit of the red undertone for excitement and sensuality while the blue
side of purple makes it more introspective and calming."
If purple isn't among the colors you usually wear, at least give it a try. Before you say,
"I don't look good in purple," remember that color analysts agree t
hat there is a shade of most any color that will look good with your coloring.
Perhaps your skin tone is better with a purple that has a lot of blue, while someone else
should stay away from the blue-purple and go with lighter shades with pink in them, or
the very dark, rich tones.
"Blue Iris" is a rich shade of purple that the people at the Pantone Institute are calling
the Color of the Year. This particular color of purple has a lot of blue in it, but is a much
more exciting color than navy blue, for example.
Team purple with gray from soft dove to charcoal, or with a fall favorite: green. You
also can wear deep khaki and rich camel with purple hues. And of course it works with
black, as well.
Solid purple isn't your only choice. Take a look at the wide variety of prints --abstract,
geometric and floral -- that have purple in them.
But if it's just a touch of the purple passion trend you want, choose from a wide
assortment of handbags, shoes, scarves and jewelry, all in shades of purple.
"There is interesting complexity that makes for an intriguing color," Eiseman said. "You
either 'get' purple or you don't. Purple lovers are those who love its complexity and drama."
August 19, 2008
Colorful Excerpts from
Purple Hues Enliven Perennial Color
by Linda Miller, Fashion Editor, NewsOK.com
Who knew a color could evoke feelings of dependability and constancy?
That's the power of blue. It's reliable, like the sky.
Unlike sky blue, navy, periwinkle and baby blue, which tend to be eternally popular,
the hue that's getting much of the attention this year is blue iris, a purple-blue that's
been named the color of the year by the Pantone Color Institute.
Insecure times call for a color that's reassuring as well as magical. No ordinary blue will do.
"There's something very sophisticated about it and a little bit mysterious," said Leatrice
Eiseman, executive director of the Pantone Color Institute.
Adding a pinch of purple to blue gives it more interest. It's not just ho-hum navy
blue. Purple gives blue personality, Eiseman said.
While fashion designers embraced this color and other ranges of blue for fall, purple
blues also are popping up in upholstery fabrics, ceramics and glassware, giving the
shade even more credibility.
"We know that green is connected to the environment, but so is blue," Eiseman said.
"It speaks about the environment, water and sky without having to be another green."
For those who don't gush about blue, Eiseman suggests giving periwinkle a close look.
"Periwinkle blue is the happiest of all blues," she said.
One thing to remember: Blues tend to have staying power. "It's not the kind of thing
you pull out of your closet and say, 'Oh, that's over.' Blues you usually keep around
longer," she said.
The blue blazer is the perfect example. "There's that feeling of dependability about
blue," she said.
August 13, 2008
BRITISH VOGUE
Lee's recent interview with Kay Barron
Why do you think that designers have gone for a more unusual sophisticated palette
for autumn & winter? (For example, Halston has chosen unusual combinations including
ochres, egg blue, aubergine and copper and have combined them in a way that they need
to be worn together, rather than with the contrasting black colours we have seen
previously.)
I think 'unique' is a key word here. There has been a movement away from
'cookie-cutter' looks, both in design and in color that has been gaining momentum
for several seasons. It really offers women the opportunity to exercise their creativity-a
more 'artistic' approach to fashion and a means of self-expression.
Are soft subtle prints and shades for autumn & winter a big incentive to buy?
I don't know that it is a 'big' incentive to buy, but for those who are of a more
practical nature, especially in unsure financial times, there is a sense that those
colors will not look outdated. They are more 'reliable' and that can provide an incentive
to buy. At the same time, the softer palette, especially neutrals can be accented with
more vibrant colors, providing a good background to that touch of brightness.
Do you find certain colours more soothing to work with?
In general, the more soothing colors are those in the cooler range, as in greens,
blue-greens, blue-lavenders and pure whites. Neutrals can also be soothing, as in
calming grays or taupes.
Which colours sell the best, in your experience?
One of the reasons that designers often use black is that it is often a color that consumers
defer to - it is not only safe, but it covers many bases - sophisticated, yet practical,
trans-seasonal, combines with many colors and is flattering to the figure. I don't have
actual sales figures, but this is what colleagues in retail report.
How do colours affect sales? Especially for autumn & winter seasons?
Colors always affect sales, since 80% of human perception is based on visual cues, and
color is the most vital part of that 'visual cueing', meaning that whether on display, in a
shop window, in an ad or on the web, color is what captures the eye. And in sales, capturing
the eye is all-important.
Are there colours which sell better in summer than in the autumn? Are the colours that
are coming through for autumn & winter unusual for the season?
As a general rule, it is the brighter or lighter colors, including white, of course, that do best
in that season. It is different to see those colors for an autumn & winter season, but again,
there has been a growing movement to making colors more 'trans-seasonal'. For example, a
light colored summer weight jacket could be layered in winter with either a warm cashmere
sweater, typically, a fall color such as russet or aubergine worn under, or winter outerwear
worn over it. That satisfies the need for both the practicality in challenged economic times as
well as the uniqueness mentioned above.
Which colours are you attracted to?
Personally I am drawn to Pantone's color of the year and that is Blue Iris. It is a beautiful blue
with a slightly purpled undertone, so it is soothing but a bit magical at the same time.
How do you predict colour trends? What is the process?
There are many things to consider. An awareness of socio-economic issues, such as
the economy or strong social movements that embrace a particular color family (as in
green associated with eco-awareness or Bono's red campaign). The world of art and
entertainment, an event that will garner world-wide interest (as in the Olympics). Even
food trends and health issues, travel destinations, buzz words that are starting to surface
(such as 'iconic' last year) as well as lifestyles. But we need to stay ahead of the curve-that
is the challenge.
May 5, 2008
The 2008 Crescent Color Trends program, includes Lee’s palette overviews.
As found in the
Crescent 2008 Color Trends Forecast
The latest trends in custom framing and home design.
W E L L S P R I N G
Water universally symbolizes cleansing and clarification. The Wellspring palette provides
expression of this life-sustaining force. Its variations on blue and aqua define water’s cooling,
soothing qualities. Deep undersea green, violet indigo highlight the blues with a glimmer of
effervescence. Porcelain and shades of Rust ground the combinations, providing balance.
C H I N O I S E R I E
The Chinoiserie palette suggests Asian-inspired design, a style based on the blending
of graceful shapes and charming motifs found in ancient Chinese porcelain, paintings
and silks. Chinoiserie artfully combines tones of Purple Wildflower with French Jonquil,
bright Azalea and hushed greens. And, as always, the traditional touch of antiqued Chinese
True Red.
A G R E S T I C
In this palette the culture of handcrafted materials takes a decidedly upscale direction.
It’s contemporized country, a redo of rustic textures and surfaces in new color combinations
that are both comforting and unexpected. For example, mix Russet with Wasabi and accent
the combo with golden Naples Yellow or Vibrant Hibiscus.
R E C O L L E C T I O N S
History repeats itself, but there are always interesting new adaptations that energize
traditional themes, usually through new color mixes and new materials. ReCollections
provides a link to the past, with Williamsurg Blue and muted Cong Green. Those warm
familiar tones take on a fresh look when combined with surprising hues like elegant White
Gold-Renaissance and warm English Rose.
N U A N C E S
Classic, nature-inspired neutral hues will always have a place in the world of home furnishings.
The Nuances palette provides a beautiful collection of neutrals that can be paired and layered
to create unexpected and intriguing accents. Combine Crimson with Tampico Brown or
Garnet and Highlight with Brownstone.
H I G H P R O F I L E
Inspired by the styles that have managed to survive the fads and foibles of the past, the
High Profile palette presents classic shades of Very White, Raven Black, Claret and Neutral
Gray. It gets its glamorous accent with an impact of Cranberry, Majestic Purple and glimmering
Silver – Renaissance and Gold – Renaissance.
E T H N I C C H I C
Today we have a plethora of design influences from around the globe. As urban nomads,
we can wander the world, physically and digitally, looking for the styling and color language
of other cultures that speaks to us. Ethnic Chic brings a new level of sophistication to this
trend, paring rich hues with softer neutrals. Try Purple Wildflower with Empress Gold and
Serengeti. Or juxtapose Sunset Clay against Calypso Blue and Sepia.
S A V O R I E S
The Savories palette gives you the ingredients to whip up something whimsical. In a stress-filled
world filled with commitments and concerns, this palette is your recipe for turning a living space into
a fanciful timeout. With its exuberant hues, you can create delightful blends like Maroon with Wasabi,
then accent with vibrant Naples Yellow.
April 28, 2008
Color Forecast 2009
Excerpt from Home Accents Today Magazine by Lindsey Strader April Issue 2008 Images from Pantone View home + interiors Forecast for 2009
Breathe Easy
Pantone Color Institute’s palettes focus on reinventing color as “consumers continue to be more
thoughtful than ever about what they are buying and the impact their choices are having on the
world around them,” says Lee.
Breath Easy is a Pantone palette that reflects the need to hold onto what we have in the world
around us. “Everyday concerns, not the least of which is environmental, plead the need to find a
place of respite and relaxation – to unwind and rewind.”
Cool tones invoke this calming effect the best, creating “thoughts of breathing easily, a constant
reminder of the clear, clean blues found in a cloudless sky, sparkling over a blue-green body of
water,” says Lee. "Breathe Easy incorporates pure bright white and variations of the blue theme,
including deep ocean and Provence blues," Lee said. "Garden greens, muted vegetables yellow-green
and the introduction of blue purple for a meditative tone, permeate this palette."
Wanderings
Pantone Color Institute created the Wanderings group. Lee examines the ever-fascinating exotic
tones. Travel–real or aspirational–to far-off destinations such as Nepal and Machu Picchu serves
as inspiration for this grouping.
“Dusky tones of rose, Dijon-like yellows and deepened taupe mix with both mineral and
Mediterranean blues and misted gray. All shades are dramatically embellished by rich gold and
scarlet red," said Lee.
Honesty
Not a novel concept for most, recycling is an environmentally friendly practice that continues
to influence home decorating and design, especially color, as ways for reusing products and
materials keep evolving.
Pantone Color Institues’ interpretation of the recycling influence can be seen in Honesty.
“Just as the name implies, Honesty speaks of a very real attempt at recycling – Creating
treasure out of what was destined to become trash,” said Lee.
This palette revisits shabby chic, with a heavier footing on chic than shabby, she said. An
appropriate subtitle for this palette could be “designer boutique meets flea market find."
Lee cited examples such as reusing discarded glass or ceramics to make artful mosaics, or
using eco-friendly vegetable or plant dye to color natural fibers. “Included in the recommended
mixes are unbleached whites. Tender greens, clouded corals, toasty warm tans and cool gray,
unexpectedly punctuated by velvety-red rose.
Solar Energy
Even thought there is generally a bigger movement in 2009 into blue, blue-green and purple,
warm is not going away.
This palette, titled Solar Energy, figuratively captures the dynamic power inherent in the sun,
depicting the rays of color that have come to symbolize an alternative to fossil fuels. When
you have a color like orange, which has been a slow, steady grower, reinventing the hue is key
to keeping the look new and fresh suggesting color combinations such as orange and gray for
an updated glow.
Mandarin Orange, Flame Orange, Artisan’s Gold, Celery, Fuchsia Red, Wineberry, Ash and
Blue Radiance make up the Solar Energy palette.
"Variations of mandarin and flame orange remain strong for future, with radiating gold
and green-based yellows reinforcing the vitality," said Lee. "A mulled purplish wine, fuchsia
red and eclectic blue add an interesting dimension to the mix, while an ashy gray provides a
calming neutral influence to this volatile mix," described Lee.
April 25, 2008
What indigenous colors would fit your city?
Here are a few mentions found in Marylou Luther’s column in The Plain Dealer
Dear Marylou: You once wrote that a famous color expert believes that cities have indigenous
colors. What is Cleveland’s shade? - U.W., Cleveland.
Dear U.W.: According to color expert Leatrice Eiseman, Cleveland is charcoal gray. In her
geographic chromatics, New York is black and Los Angeles is white. And the color comes in
between. “Chicago,” says Eiseman, is “similar to New York, but more dark, rich brown than
black. Houston is take-no-prisoners red. Miami is a cha-cha-cha mix of bright color. And Denver
is tan, rawhide and all shades thereof.”
April 8, 2008
The reason for yellow's surge in status?
This spring, style hands you lemon
USA TODAY's Lifestyle article by Donna Freydkin.
Yellow is anything but mellow this spring and summer. The sunniest of colors is bursting out
as the season's hottest hue.
The reason for yellow's surge in status? "It has a very clean, modern aesthetic. In a sense,
it's a fashionable neutral, says New York-based handbag and show designer Monica Botkier.
If yellow is your favorite, you never say: "Been there, done that."
Yellow is luminous and warm because it is strongly associated with sunshine. It sparkles with
outgoing activity. Yellow people are highly original, innovative, imaginative, idealistic, creative,
artistic and often spiritual. You love novelty and challenge and have an inquiring mind. You are
a reliable friend and confidant. You are optimistic and encourage others to do their best, so your
friends love your "up" attitude. Your ambitions are often realized, and you usually have a sunny
disposition, which makes you a fun "playmate", Lee describes.
Dear Color Lovers,
Remember when viewing colors online the computer monitor colors may vary. Thank hue for your understanding. .
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