Color Confidence

Pantone forecasts strong, bold hues for fall

By Deborah A. Yonick

(Originally Published June 2019)

According to the Pantone Color Institute, colors for autumn/winter 2019/2020 reflect a visceral palette that is relatable yet displays clever nuances for the season. The colors, and how they are combined in fall fashions, suggest a thirst for liberation and a desire to realize one’s own unique identity in how we wear, use, and express color.

There is more confidence reflected in what’s trending in fashion color, as consumers are unabashedly exploring bolder, stronger hues. This trend is underscored by the fact that Pantone, in recent seasons, started highlighting more colors as designers were upping their color ante. Now they report on the top 16 instead of top 10 hues, including a dozen standouts and four classic neutrals preferred by designers on the New York runways.

“This palette of versatile hues builds a sense of empowerment and confidence, enabling the wearer to c...