Color of the Year 2015: Marsala

There has been a buzz all over the blogosphere since Pantone released their 2015 color of the year: Marsala. After some of the more recent color choices (Radiant Orchid, anyone?)

Here is Pantone’s explanation for their choice:

Much like the fortified wine that gives Marsala its name, this tasteful hue embodies the satisfying richness of a fulfilling meal while its grounding red-brown roots emanate a sophisticated, natural earthiness. This hearty, yet stylish tone is universally appealing and translates easily to fashion, beauty, industrial design, home furnishings and interiors.

 

The Versatility of Marsala

• Equally appealing to men and women, Marsala is a stirring and flavorful shade for apparel and accessories, one that encourages color creativity and experimentation
• Flattering against many skin tones, sultry and subtle Marsala is a great go-to color for beauty, providing enormous highlight for the cheek, and a captivating pop of color for nails, shadows lips and hair.
• Dramatic and at the same time grounding, the rich and full-bodied red-brown Marsala brings color warmth into home interiors
• An earthy shade with a bit of sophistication, texture is the story in print and packaging. A matte finish highlights Marsala’s organic nature while adding a sheen conveys a completely different message of glamour and luxury.

Marsala might seem a little drab. Well, it’s definitely NOT one of my normal colors. But, I’ve come up with four ways that I could totally see myself using Marsala in 2015!

MAKEUP: You can’t deny that Marsala is a great color for nails & lips. It’s fun but sophisticated, neutral but bold. Would you rock it?

SKINNY PANTS: I’m all about the colored skinny jean – or even better, the skinny corduroy. Marsala is the perfect neutral color for that. Pair it with navy or green or white or black or brown – you can’t go wrong. (Except radiant orchid.. Don’t pair it with that.)

THROW PILLOWS + BLANKETS: I think that it’s funny that people say that Marsala is a fall/winter color, because I think that it pairs fabulously with my summer pallet – mint green, lots of teal, and pops of coral.

So, it makes sense that Marsala would make a great accent color in your home. I’d pick up a soft throw or down filled pillows in a great wine hue.

SHOES & BAGS: When in doubt, grab a Marsala crossbody or a pair of sweet pumps (or a wedge, or a bootie!) and pair them with your little black dress or jeans and a blazer. The pop of red is just enough to take any outfit from ordinary to extraordinary!

What do you think of Marsala?