From the walls of Oz to Jacqueline Kennedy’s iconic engagement ring, emerald has captivated
the American eye for the better part of the past century. Now the elegant jewel tone
is making quite the comeback: It’s been named 2013 color of the year by Pantone.
“Symbolically, emerald brings a sense of clarity, renewal, and rejuvenation, which
is so important in today’s complex world,”
Leatrice Eiseman, executive director of the
Pantone Color Institute, said in a press release.
“This powerful and universally appealing tone translates easily
to both fashion and
home interiors.”
Akris, Dolce &
Gabbana,
and Stella McCartney
incorporated the luxurious hue into their spring 2013 lines,
and Sephora and Pantone
are teaming up to launch an exclusive beauty collection come
March.
Every year, Pantone determines the “it” color by polling fashion and interior designers
about the colors they’re working with.
Julia Farr, of the eponymous Friendship Heights boutique, is putting
the finishing touches on two emerald pieces from her fall collection: a silk chiffon
blouse and a velvet sheath dress. “I adore emerald green in nature, in home design,
in clothing, and in jewelry,” she says.
Farr says Washington women can easily incorporate the hue into their wardrobes by
starting small—with a belt, scarf, handbag, or piece of statement jewelry. For a sophisticated,
balanced look, she suggests pairing emerald with neutral tones such as white, ivory,
or taupe. In contrast, foundation colors like black and navy create an edgy, graphic
finish.
“The tone works well with most skin tones and hair color, so it’s a color to embrace
as we head into 2013,” says Farr. To get you started, check out our slideshow of 23
fashion and beauty finds in Pantone’s winning shade.
