Color Forecast for Apparel, Accessories, & Interior

Harmony

Fall/Winter Color Scheme 2011-2012

With the comfort and reassurance these colors bring, our society will be in Harmony again and create a positive social mood.

Colors from left to right: Brushed Gray, Midnight, Deep Lilac, Dark Rose, Mustard, Dark Night, Fuschia-Red, Cache, Leaf, & Cinnamon

Peace of Mind

Spring/Summer Color Scheme 2011-2012

After the soothing colors of the fall and winter lift consumers' mood, they will have a Peace of Mind wearing these delicate colors.

Colors from left to right: Melon, Champagne, Robins Egg, Creamsicle, Pink Ribbon, Daisy, Cotton, Lavendar, Ocean Blue, & Sand

The above color schemes are not only for apparel, but interior and accessory items as well. We have identified similar color trends for all three industries. As seen below, for 2010 colors of accessories (handbags, shoes, scarves, etc.) and interior (furniture, bedding, rugs, etc.) imitate those of apparel. 

Harmony & Peace of Mind Color Inspiration: 

• Past color trends show that in 2006 earth tones were very popular, which was a time our economy was still in recession. People were looking for comfortable colors, to soothe their negative social moods. 
• With the Presidential election in 2008, forecasters predicted bright, neon, and happy colors due to consumer’s excitement for change. In result, during 2009-2010 the fashion industry was full of bright colors. 
• Our society has not seen the expected and promised change, so therefore consumers are discouraged and unsure of what to expect. New issues have risen causing consumers to want answers and reassurance. Thus warm, soft, and pastel colors will dominate the fashion industry for 2011-12 to satisfy consumer needs and alleviate their negative social mood. Consumers will also be looking for versatile shades (such as black, gray, and soft shades), that can be easily layered and carryover season after season, as signs of a better economy are still far ahead. 

Sources:

• http://www.pantone.com/
• http://www.infomat.com/
• http://www.fashiontrendsetter.com/
• "Consumer Lifestyles in the United States." Global Market Information Database. Euromonitor International, 2009. http://ntserver1.wsulibs.wsu.edu:2684/PORTAL/Magazines/Consumers.aspx
• "Healthcare Costs a Growing Source of Insecurity for Americans." Global Market Information Database. Euromonitor International, 2009.  http://ntserver1.wsulibs.wsu.edu:2684/PORTAL/Magazines/Consumers.aspx