Pantone: Fashion Color Report


When we go shopping throughout the year, we tend to see certain colors in the spring, summer, fall and winter seasons. Not only do these colors reflect the weather of the season, they were chosen for us by professionals in the fashion industry. For each season, fashion designers, make-up artists, stylists and other experts collaborate together to predict fashion color trends which greatly influence colors of clothing we buy and what is thought to be fashionable. The fashion color report for each spring and fall season doesn’t come out at the beginning of each season. Instead, it comes out months in advance. The Fall 2012 color trend reports have been out for weeks already. This helps guide everyone in what colors to produce clothing in, and what colors to buy.

Here is the current Spring 2012 fashion color report:

Pantone Spring 2012 fashion color report
Courtesy: Pantone.com

The Fall 2012 fashion color report is also out, as shown:

Pantone Fall 2012 fashion color report
Courtesy: Pantone.com

I’m loving how there’s some overlap in colors for the current spring season and upcoming fall season (even though colors aren't exact, they’re very similar). If you’re like me and love buying clothes that are fashionable in color, this might a great way to see what will be “in” for more than one season. Pantone states that the 2012 Color of the Year is “Tangerine Tango.” I’m not usually a fan of orange hues, but this might have convinced me to grab something from the mall to spice up my wardrobe a bit!

As an added bonus, Pantone and Sephora have teamed up to create a limited edition “Color of the Year” make-up collection featuring “Tangerine Tango!” The products include nail polish, blush, lip gloss and more.

Diane von Furstenberg for Gap Kids


The latest designer to collaborate with Gap Inc. is none other than Diane von Furstenberg. This legendary designer was born in Belgium, and is most famous for the creation of the wrap dress (shown below). She has appeared as a judge on television shows including Project Runway and America’s Next Top Model.

Von Furstenberg teamed up with the Gap Inc. design team to create the new GapKids collection that will feature products for both babies and girls. This collection is perfect for Spring, since it showcases fun prints and bright colors. The line will feature playful pieces such as a “mini-me” version of her famous wrap dress for girls, rompers, onesies, and even baby items such as rattles and diaper bags. In the video on the Gap website, von Furstenberg says "This collection is really all about celebrating life, and celebrating color." The collection will launch in-stores and online March 15.

Diane von Furstenberg
Courtesy: shefinds.com

Diane von Furstenberg for Gap Kids
Courtesy: childmode.com

Diane von Furstenberg for Gap Kids
Courtesy: childmode.com

Spice Up Your White T-Shirt


I’m sure everyone has a plain white tee in their wardrobe, so I thought a few tips on what to wear with it would be helpful and inspirational. I'm sure the possibilities of white t-shirt pairings is endless. Just remember, fashion isn’t about following rules or copying what you see in photos and on models exactly. It’s all about what you want it to be and what inspires you!

1. Statement Necklaces

Style & Co. Multi Metallic Shell Necklace, Macy’s, $28
Style & Co. Multi Metallic Shell Necklace, Macy’s, $28

Filigree Butterfly Necklace, Express, $39.90
Filigree Butterfly Necklace, Express, $39.90

A plain white t-shirt will provide a simple background for your necklace to be the center of attention in your outfit. Since white is neutral and bright, it will add lightness to any outfit and can match with anything. Statement necklaces are an easy way to spice up a plain, white t-shirt.

2. Scarves

Orchids & Poppies Scarf, Forever 21, $10.80
Orchids & Poppies Scarf, Forever 21, $10.80

Orange Scarf, Windsor, $12.90
Orange Scarf, Windsor, $12.90

3. Classic Blazer

Blazer, H&M, $49.95
Blazer, H&M, $49.95

There’s nothing I love more than a perfect fitting blazer! Okay, maybe I love a lot of things, but a classic blazer is a must in every wardrobe. It can be worn casually and professionally, if you find the right one. A blazer over a white t-shirt is such a classic, effortless look. I grew up in the 90’s, and I remember that this look was stylish then. I’ve seen photos from the 80’s and it was stylish then as well (more of a ‘Miami Vice’ type of look, but that’s how fashion was back then!). Either way, I don’t see this look going out of style any time soon.

4. Skirts

Beaded Flapper Skirt, Forever 21, $22.80
Beaded Flapper Skirt, Forever 21, $22.80

Necessary Objects Satin Stripe Full Skirt, Nordstrom, $48
Necessary Objects Satin Stripe Full Skirt, Nordstrom, $48

I just LOVE wearing skirts in the spring and summer seasons. In the winter, I try to pair them with some warm tights or leggings. Skirts that are a bit more on the dressy side make white t-shirts look less casual and more put together. I love the white t-shirt + skirt look for date night. This look is comfortable and feminine at the same time, two things I love in every outfit.

Feel free to share your ideas on how to wear a plain white t-shirt as well! I would love to read all of your wonderful ideas.

Revlon Lip Butters: A New Favorite


A few months ago, Revlon released their newest lip products for the Colorburst line – the Revlon Lip Butters. I’m sure many of you have heard amazing things about these, and I’m here to tell you that it’s true!

I was skeptical at first, since I just wasn’t sure how much I could really trust the opinions of a girl on YouTube saying she loves everything. When I saw the display at my local Target, I just had to grab one and try it out. Despite not loving the color I chose that much (I chose Strawberry Shortcake, a blue-toned pink), I absolutely LOVED the formula! Retailing for around $5-8 at drugstores, the price is pretty great as well. It’s also great that this is a drugstore item, and can easily be found on sale throughout the year at multiple drugstores. Also, be on the lookout for coupons!

To this day, I’ve tried five different colors from the Revlon Lip Butter collection. I can honestly say that each of them are very moisturizing (hence the name Lip BUTTER), and are very buildable in color. There is no need to apply any lip balm before using these. I use these on my bare lips and never have problems, and my lips usually tend to get dry easily. These can be applied sheer if you dab it across your lips, but if you give it a few swipes, the color is opaque like a lipstick.

Each of the lip butters leaves a glossy finish. I know that some of them have slight shimmer to them, but they’re definitely won’t bother you. Personally, I really dislike most shimmer lip products, but these shimmers are so small, I barely notice them.

Also, I love the packaging. Not only is it functional and sturdy, the quilted pattern is a nice touch. Each lip butter cap is color coordinated to match the color of the lip butter, so no two are the same color.

After trying these for a few weeks, it seems like all of them have pretty good staying power. I can put it on in the morning, and not have to reapply it until after I eat lunch. That’s pretty amazing if you ask me.

I posted some photos below of the ones I have, as well as a few swatches.

Revlon Lip Butter
L to R: 001 Pink Truffle (my favorite!), 035 Candy Apple, 050 Berry Smoothie, 080 Strawberry Shortcake, and 095 Creme Brulee

Revlon Lip Butter swatches
Each swatch shown is with 3 swipes/layers
Photos taken by myself

I definitely would recommend these to anyone. They’re a great product at a great price. Hopefully this review helped some of you who were wondering about trying the Revlon Lip Butters. Feel free to ask any questions in the comments in case I missed anything!

Falling Into Spring Fashion


2011 is out, and 2012 has arrived! With the spring season approaching, I’m sure that a lot of girls are looking for what to wear when the weather gets warmer and the sun is shining brighter. So go on and get shopping, ladies! Even though these trends are coming up for spring, that doesn’t mean you can’t start wearing them now. Here are some upcoming spring trends to help you get started on a killer spring wardrobe:

1. Sheer Sweaters:

These lightweight sweaters are not only cute and comfy, but light enough to layer over a tank and under a cute jacket for spring. This effortless look is perfect for casual days such as going to school, or hanging out with family and friends on the weekend.

Peek-A-Boo Sweater $19.99 @ Aerie
Aerie Peek-A-Boo Sweater, ae.com, $19.99 (sale)

2. Nautical Inspirations:

This trend is setting sail with stripes, and navy blue hues. As well as being a great trend for spring, but it can easily cruise right into summer! ;D Personally, I love pieces that can be worn for multiple seasons. It saves money, time, and the hassle of wondering which trendy piece to pick up next for my wardrobe the next season.

Nautica Fashionl Inspirations
Clockwise from top: Sweater, H&M, $24.95; Rhinestone Anchor Studs, Forever 21, $1.50; Here's Looking at Me Kid Romper, Modcloth.com, $69.99 (sale)

 

3. Pastel Colors:

This sounds quite obvious, but lately bold, bright colors were all the rage in 2011. Now it’s all about the pastels. These soft colors will bright lightness to your outfit as you transition out of the darker winter colors. The skinny jeans shown below are great for those who love to make a bigger statement! Otherwise, a pastel colored blouse paired with your favorite jeans would be perfect as well.

High Waisted Skinny Jeans, $58.18 @ ASOS.com
High Waisted Skinny Jeans, ASOS, $58.18

4. Chunky-Heeled Shoes:

Perhaps I should call these the “anti-stilettos”? I’ll admit, I’ve never been a huge fan of stilettos. I’m a clumsy walker and they hurt my feet. I love how these shoes are becoming more popular for spring. They’re stylish and comfortable – at the same time! These chunky heels are a must for girls that didn’t think they could walk in heels before, and for the shoe fanatics – which is probably everyone.

BCBGeneration ‘Jodeci’ Pump, $72.90 @ Endless.com
BCBGeneration ‘Jodeci’ Pump, Endless.com, $72.90

5. Tribal Print:

This print is quite the opposite from some of the other trends mentioned, but that doesn’t mean it won’t go with anything. Every girl needs a fun, statement piece so why not something with a tribal print? This type of print draws a lot of attention, so make sure to pair it with something simple to balance your look.

Tribal print
L to R: Hinge ‘Faded Paisley’ Scarf, Nordstrom, $48; Sparkle & Fade Intarsia Skirt, Urban Outfitters, $39

 

 
Stephanie Tam
Fashion Babbler
Hello! My name is Stephanie and I am from Sacramento, California. I am currently majoring in Business - Marketing, and Apparel Marketing and Design (yes, two majors!). I LOVE anything fashion and beauty related. I hope to work and live in a big city one day. Follow @sonephanie!
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