Looks like the world is finally going green: literally! As some of you might have heard by now, Pantone recently announced its Color of the Year for 2013 and they have chosen Emerald Green for the honors. Pantone termed emerald as “Lively. Radiant. Lush… A color of elegance and beauty that enhances our sense of well-being, balance and harmony.” But is this color for everyone?
Last year’s tangerine tango was full of energy and passion and excitement, emerald green is diametrically opposite to the tangy orange as it exudes peace and tranquility. It’s a bright color in its own right but it has a rather calming and restorative effect.
No wonder, spring/summer 2013 collections by Burberry, Micheal Kors, Kenzo, Acne, Vivienne Tam, Gucci, Zac Posen, Sportmax extensively featured this luxurious hue, while Tracy Reese, Nanette Lepore, Barbara Tfank, NAHM and Marimekko, also used emerald on the runway.
And why not? This uplifting jewel tone exudes luxury like no other color. But while emerald is a lovely restful color, it can be a bit difficult to carry. Many in the fashion world have completely decided to opt out of using this color or are otherwise sitting down with furrowed brows thinking how exactly to incorporate it in their palettes.
Here are my tips on how you can wear this color in 2013:
Makeup
What I like about emeralds is that it looks good on EVERYONE; it suits all skin tones, hair shades and eye colors.
- The best way to carry off emerald makeup is to use it on the eyes, of course. Stella McCartney, Christian Dior, and Kenzo all used emerald green eyeliners in their shows. You can use this either to line only the inside of your lower lid or you can
- If I may, I predict emerald eye shadow mixed with charcoal gray to create a smokey effect will be quite a favorite this year.
- Another popular makeup category for emerald is nail color. Don’t go for muted shades; instead opt for bright and glittery green nail colors.
Clothes
- Most people are just so scared of the Christmas red and green effect that they are afraid of wearing emerald with any color. If you’re not so comfortable, you can pair it up with neutrals like tan, beige or cream.
- If you want to go bold then mix emerald with royal blue or deep yellow.
- Emerald works well in small powerful doses so it translates well into accessories like belts and clutches.
- If you want to carry emerald on its own, the trick is to play with textures and add ruffles and pleats.
- If you really want to amp up the oomph factor for evening wear, you should go for emerald in materials like silk, and velvet which showcase its brilliance. Most runways featured this jewel tone in metallic shades.
- For daywear, swap the silks for cotton and go instead for bold, graphic prints in this color.
That’s all for today, I’m hoping to see some really cool emerald looks for the showcased section.