COLOR TRENDS FOR SPRING 2012

The hot colors for 2012 are out and I thought I should share them with you!  Color trends can impact everything from clothing, make up, even home decor, like paint colors and wallpaper too!  Read on dear reader for this years color trends, hopefully some of your faves made the cut!

“Consumers look to spring for renewed energy, optimism and the promise of a brighter day,” said Leatrice Eiseman, executive director of the Pantone Color Institute.  For over 18 years, Pantone, the global authority on color, has surveyed the designers of New York Fashion Week and beyond to bring you the season's most important color trends. This report previews the most prominent hues for spring 2012. The Pantone Color Institute releases a report each year in which designers reveal their inspiration, colors and must-have items for the current year.  For spring 2012 designers are inspired by diverse influences, showcasing a range of styles and lifestyles, from free and playful and light and breezy, to contemporary classics. Colors likewise reflect these differing moods, encapsulating vivid brights, soft muted tones and fun-loving pastels.

 Although the report focuses on the color trends for fashion, these colors permeate clothing, make up, and even home decor. It may be fitting to be aware of the trends as a crafter, and certainly as a self-appointed make up maven! So, here we go:


SPRING 2012 COLOR TRENDS!

Provocative Tangerine Tango, an enticing juicy orange, is a vivacious and appealing refresher to enliven any one's outlook this spring.  Tangerine Tango is also Pantone's "Color of the Year" for 2012!

Providing a jolt of energy, Solar Power radiates warmth and cheer.

Fanciful Bellflower, a distinct ornamental purple, exudes uniqueness and creativity. 

Scintillating and sexy, Cabaret is a sensual and intense rosy-red — an excellent choice for summer clothing and cosmetics.

Sodalite Blue, a classic maritime hue, brings order and calmness to mind. Like an anchor to a ship, this dependable shade works with every color in the palette. 

Cockatoo, a tactile blue-green, is sure to make your spirits soar. This unusual hue adds a whimsical touch to the palette and will surely make a statement this spring.

Margarita, a piquant yellow-green, lifts spirits with its refreshing and stimulating glow.

Reminiscent of a blossoming garden on an early spring morning, fragrant Sweet Lilac evokes the fresh scents of summer. This delicate pinkish lilac adds a touch of romance to any wardrobe.

Natural versatile neutrals add practicality to this season's brights. Driftwood, an adaptable blend of beige and gray with a slightly weathered feel.

Starfish, a perfect warm summer neutral, complement all colors featured in this season's top 10.

For an ultra-bold vibrant look this spring, try mixing Bellflower with Tangerine Tango and Cabaret. Combine Margarita with Sweet Lilac and Cockatoo for a subtle alternative, or combine Margarita with Sweet Lilac and Driftwood for a more practical variation. Solar Power is best juxtaposed with Sodalite Blue. For a safer
bet, add a natural neutral like Starfish to the mix.


Spring and summer naturally evoke feelings of calm ocean waters and tranquil beach vacations. Vivid Hawaiian Ocean adds sparkle to any attire. 

Vintage Khaki, a timeless yet quintessential classic, is best paired with

Granita, a full-bodied and robust deep red.

Breezy Tradewinds creates the perfect combination for spring with Dazzling Blue.

Grass Green. This sporty yet classic golf green is sure to be a hit in active sportswear. 

And that's it!  The color swatches and most of the text were borrowed from the Pantone website.  The other pics I scrounged around for, but keep in mind all monitors vary so they may not view exactly.  

Now that you know the new trendy colors, are you gonna make an effort to use them?  Or will you do your own thing anyway?  I will most likely use them where I can, but that creative streak can be awfully stubborn!

Happy Colorizing!

Love and Hugs!

Jillie