Rainbow Brights for Spring 2009

Bag Trends: Rainbow Brights for Spring 2009

Don't let the market get you down. Being in the black isn't always a good thing. It's a good thing spring is coming with some new brights to warm us up.


Spring 09 www.pantone.com		Spring 09 www.pantone.com		Spring 09 www.pantone.com

It is a widely held notion that fashion is not a serious necessity, but rather something amusing and frivolous. I completely disagree. When the world is falling apart, the once strong-holds of the economy crumbling and fear is rampant, fashion can play a big role in lifting the spirit, finding individual voice and reminding us that aesthetics (color, texture, shape) have a huge place in our lives. And if they don’t, they should.

That’s why I am thrilled with Pantone. The quintessential color makers have released their Spring 2009 and color palette and there is nothing more inspiring than all the brights they have brought out to shine. For those who can’t fathom wearing the vivid hues of the coming season, you’ll be glad to know that new neutrals have been thrown into the mix to add fabulous lucidity and depth. This canvas of blossoming color and vibrant hues evokes (as Spring does) freshness, new beginnings and a sense that all will be okay. And of course, it reminds us that ‘change’ is the word of the day. “New York’s fashion designers encourage hopeful attitudes with lively colors, while sophisticated, grounded hues address the need for stability in times of economic uncertainty,” said Leatrice Eiseman, executive director of the Pantone Color Institute®.

No fashion projection evolves without a backward glance towards the past. This season’s Lavender, Slate Gray and Palace Blue are all a nod to all the blues and purples that were rampant in Fall 2008. Lavender retains classic, romantic appeal and Slate Gray offers a neutral with intensity which can be paired with any of the other colors for Spring. Not as staid as navy and yet, still a stable staple, Palace Blue is bound to be a favorite with fashionistas.

A tremendous, although unusual complement to the blues is the citrusy Super Lemon. This bright, happy yellow screams optimism, exuberance and wonder. Yellow simply commands attention, which is probably why it persists season after wonderful season.

No modern color palette would be right without a pink. Spring 2009’s contribution has three diametrically disparate, but beautiful shades: Salmon Rose, Fuchsia Red and Rose Dust. Salmon Rose lends an iridescent glow, while still managing to remain understated and elegant. For those with a more vixen’ish bent, choose Fuchsia Red. This stunning tone is versatile and lends depth, confidence and grandeur to complement any outfit. Finally, the immortal mainstay beige undergoes a striking metamorphosis into Rose Dust, allowing you to add a neutral while still keeping the pizzazz.

Spring’s color palette can ever hardly be complete without a range of greens and Pantone brings some gorgeous and distinct tones of eco-friendly color. Nothing speaks renewal like Vibrant Green, a shade so invigorating and restorative that I can’t imagine anyone being anything but happy to see it. For a more subtle, but equally verdant shade, try Dark Citron; a hue that allows for a level of sophistication and restrained chic. And, if a walk on the wild side is what you’re after, try the crystal clear sparkle of Lucite Green.

So there you have it: a shimmering, glistening and integral palette for Spring. In that spirit, use this guide to buy a few key accessories in these stunning shades – it will go a long way to helping you break out of winter doldrums!

Author: Natasha Shamdasani (Want to become a Handbag Correspondent?)

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