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Check Out Highlights From the 2015 Pantone Fashion Color Report

What's new for Fall? These 10 colors, according to the experts.

Colors, like flavors, aren't easy to describe—try explaining "red," or "salty," to a friend to get a sense of what I mean. Thankfully, for the purposes of designers, poets, and foodies alike, it's in the minute variations on the basics that sensory vocabularies are built.

For all intents and purposes, international authorities like Pantone, who just released the PANTONE® Fashion Color Report Fall 2015, are the benchmark for when it comes to expressing the hues of what is already shaping up to be a vibrant year. Created by a select group of designers and influencers, the report is "a comprehensive overview of designers’ use of color in their upcoming collections," that details the top ten colors of Fall 2015 fashions. “The Fall 2015 palette is rooted in multi-faceted, androgynous colors that can be worn to portray effortless sophistication across men’s and women’s fashion; it is the first time we are seeing a truly unisex color palette,” explains Leatrice Eiseman, executive director of the Pantone Color Institute®. "Juxtaposition of color from opposite sides of the spectrum emphasizes poise and confidence on the runway."

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This year's collection pays homage to "progressive moments in American history—from the seductive ‘20s to the bohemian hippie and modernists of the ‘60s and ‘70s—while stringing together an affection for colors and styling that are innately easy to wear by both men and women." From PANTONE 16-0110 Desert Sage through PANTONE 17-3628 Amethyst Orchid, we've pulled together excerpts from the PANTONE® Fashion Color Report Fall 2015 so that this year, you'll know exactly what colors to wear, when, why, and how to describe them to your friend:

Rich and robust, Marsala incorporates the warmth and richness of a tastefully fulfilling meal, while its grounding red-brown roots point to a sophisticated, natural earthiness.

Indicative of our affection for color, Amethyst Orchid is the jewel in the crown of the Fall 2015 palette. Intriguing, vibrant and somewhat sensual, this enigmatic shade is an extraordinary hue that is unique, bold, creative and exciting.

A nod to the ‘60s and ‘70s, Cadmium Orange evokes a sentiment of optimism, fun and fantasy." It's also "a warm, welcoming and subtly dramatic hue that is striking enough to stand on its own or act as a bold contrast."

Cashmere Rose is a tactile and soft pink hue that renders exactly what it promises. Cultivated in its richness, Cashmere Rose displays a gently persuasive and composed pink that is more upscale than downtown.

Biscay Bay splashes up against more heated tones with its cool touch, combining the serene qualities of blue with the invigorating aspects of green. This cool and confident tone inspires thoughts of soothing tropical waters, transporting us to a place that is pleasant and inviting.

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Oak Buff is a mellow, comforting and warming shade that brings good feelings. One of nature’s many illustrious shades, this golden-yellow acts to nurture and comfort.

Conveying a message of credibility, Reflecting Pond is a serious shade that speaks to the need for stability and security.

Reminiscent of the sky on a gray, overcast day, Stormy Weather is dependable, cool and, above all, constant. Implying quality and luxury, it is a powerful blue-gray that is strong, protective and enduring.

Timeless and unobtrusive yet powerful enough to make a statement on its own, Desert Sage speaks to the feeling of naturally inspired colors that remind us of things that are real and not invented.

An olive green once thought of as strictly safari or military, Dried Herb is elevated this season to be sophisticated and chic. Closely related to nature, Dried Herb is an organic shade redolent of nature’s earthy fragrances.

The Report also includes color combinations, ensuring that your Fall look won't fall flat:

Combine Desert Sage, Stormy Weather and Oak Buff for a look inspired by the flora and fauna of Fall.

Both men and women can weave Cadmium Orange and Cashmere Rose with Desert Sage for a bold mix of bright, earthy inspiration.

Layer Cadmium Orange, Cashmere Rose and Amethyst Orchid for an exotic eye shadow look, or Desert Sage and Oak Buff for a softer, more natural appearance.

Add Dried Herb to nearly any combination for a bit more depth and interest.

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Biscay Bay provides a sprinkle of coolness to warm undertones or adds a harmonizing and subtle touch to neutrals such as Desert Sage and Dried Herb.

Highlight natural tones with a soft and subtle splash of playful Cashmere Rose and introduce sophisticated Marsala for an appealing and enticing vibe.

Click here to learn about the whole PANTONE® Fashion Color Report Fall 2015.

Related:

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