2020 will soon come to an end—and many people are breathing a sigh of relief as they look forward to a fresh new year!

With Canada starting to receive doses of a coronavirus vaccine, there’s a glimmer of hope that we’ll be able to see loved ones and travel again in the not-so-distant future.

And there’s just something special about the start of a new year, whether you’ve set a goal to achieve, a resolution to stick to or are dreaming of an epic vacation.

So, as we look forward to 2021 fashion trends, what better colours to wear than two that represent strength and hope?

That’s what the Pantone Color Institute has said their two choices—Ultimate Gray and Illuminating—are all about. Illuminating is a bright, warm yellow, while Ultimate Gray is a classic, neutral hue.

If you’re not familiar with the Pantone Color Institute, it’s a global organization that collaborates with clients to “develop a color and design approach consistent with their brand vision.”

Each year, experts from their institute research the latest trends in fashion design, interior design, movies, art and more. The colour or colours they choose set the tone for the next year’s most popular fashions and designs. Illuminating and Ultimate Gray will likely shape many 2021 fashion trends.

Before the Pantone Color Institute came along, there was no universal colour guide. That meant that one agency’s “sky blue” might be more of a “cerulean blue” to the printing company. This created confusion, inconsistencies and unhappy design clients.

In 1963, the institute developed the first colour matching system to create a universal standard. And ever since, fashion and interior designers have waited eagerly to see what colour they’ll choose each year.

In an earlier blog, we shared four ways that you could wear 2020’s Pantone Color of the year, which was Classic Blue.

Now, let’s look ahead at how to wear 2021’s Pantone Colors of the Year!

1. CREATE A BEAUTIFUL BALANCE. 

I’ve heard some of our clients say they don’t look good in yellow, or that grey is too drab. That’s not true! The trick is to find the right balance for your style and body.

For example, some people will shine in an all-yellow outfit, while others don’t feel comfortable in it. A pebble-grey ensemble might not appeal to some women, while others will gravitate towards this classic neutral.

A great way to wear yellow and grey is to combine them with other colours. You can look for unique designs and patterns that incorporate Illuminating or Ultimate Gray, like a casual sweater from Bella Amore Italy.

2. GIVE YOUR OUTFIT AN EDGE.

Yellow is associated with cheer and sunshine, while grey is often considered more formal. If you’re looking for something sleeker and sexier, consider tying in an animal print or geometric pattern.

This little black dress from Joseph Ribkoff is the perfect example of how small pops of yellow can take a more basic shade to a whole new level.

Or, you could be bold and bright in a yellow Frank Lyman top and eye-catching tropical-print pants.

 

3. LET YOUR LAYERS DO THE TALKING.

Layering your clothes is an easy way to make your wardrobe go further, and keeps you comfortable in changing temperatures.

Look for sweaters, jackets and scarves in various shades of grey and yellow. You’ll be set to mix and match a wide range of outfits using pieces you may already have in your closet.

 

It will be interesting to see how Illuminating and Ultimate Gray influence 2021 fashion trends. If you like these representations of strength and hope, try incorporating them into your wardrobe and home throughout the year.

As always, we’re here to help you choose clothing that makes you feel fabulous. Come and visit us at Malary’s on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays from 10am to 5pm. You are most welcome to book a private shopping appointment on Mondays, Wednesdays or Fridays. Call Yvonne at 604-838-6402 to book your preferred day and time.

Here’s to a colourful 2021!