Pantone Reveals ‘18-1438 Marsala’ as 2015’s Color of the Year

(IDEX Online News) – The waiting is over. Pantone today announced its pick for color of the year for 2015 – and it’s Pantone 18-1438 Marsala, a “naturally robust and earthy wine red.”

While it may not have the immediate draw for jewelers of 2014’s color of the year, Radian Orchid, gemstone color expert Gemewizard explains that the color matches its 3-6-2 (Light, Slightly Brownish, reddish Orange) Gemewizard color code, which corresponds to gems of brown-red colors such as almandine/pyrope garnet and red zircon.

Jewelers wishing to promote the shade could take direction from Pantone’s assessment that Marsala shades of make-up pair well with monochromatic mixes of peachy pinks, and sparkles against antiqued gold metallics.

Pantone said the shade is a versatile color for beauty and is an “appealing and sophisticated shade that's flattering against many skin tones.”

According to Leatrice Eiseman, executive director of the Pantone Color Institute, “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."

Marsala has already been a hit on the Spring 2015 runways and is a popular choice for jewelry and fashion accessories, including handbags, hats, footwear and the burgeoning market of wearable technology.