This new year brings intense new challenges, moreover, it’s also the start of a new era and decade, so the pressure is more felt. As a new era starts, comes the Pantone Colour Institute announcing that its 2020 color of the year is classic blue–a deep blue shade that has long been a staple making a comforting and relatable fashion statement. Pantone’s selection of Classic Blue for 2020 is richer when you consider the history of the Colour of the Year franchise, which began 20 years ago in 1999, when they also chose a serene shade of blue that represented the excitement of a new millennium and offered a calming visual to the anxieties that preceded Y2K.
About two decades after, blue comes full circle, coming as no surprise as a decade ends and a new one begins; Pantone revisits the blue color family. In fact, more than just being the color of the year, choosing classic blue is somehow a way to promote “buy less, buy better” mindset, that stands for timelessness and longevity. As our collective environmental conscience shifts, we are gravitating towards colors that won’t be out of fashion any time soon. It is also an inclusive color as blues are the most universally embraced color family due to being easily relatable, as shown in some of the fashion industry’s powerhouses including ATP Atelier, Diane Von Fürstenburg, Iris & Ink, Michael Kors, Michelle Mason, and Rag & Bone, to name just a few, incorporating the color of the year into their latest collections.
ATP ATELIER
These classic ATP Atelier ankle boots are made in Italy from dyed leather features a semi-round and pointy toe, side garterized fastening, leather and rubber outsole and mid-high semi pointed heel. One won’t need any convincing when it comes to adding this to their everyday collection of winter shoes–these ones are just too good to pass up on and a good way to embrace the color of the year trend.
ATP Atelier atpatelier.com
DIANE VON FÜRSTENBURG
For Diane Von Fürstenburg, their approach to Pantone’s color of the year is reflected in the brand’s jumpsuit that is inspired by classic tuxedos and makes such a great option for any party or gathering. It’s cut from sumptuous velvet, and has lustrous satin lapels and waist-cinching ties at the front, of course both in the color of a classic blue. Complete the look by accessorizing this with a pair of strappy sandals and a sparkling clutch.
Diane Von Fürstenburg Shoppes at Venetian, Shop 927, Grand Canal Street, Level 3, Cotai, Macau, +853 2899 8915, hk.dvf.comhk.dvf.com/
IRIS & INK
Iris & Ink inspires stylish women with collections that are forward-thinking, with a firm nod to the classics. Launched in 2012 by THE OUTNET, Iris & Ink perfectly balances comfort and style to create a wardrobe that works anytime, anywhere. One of the most timeless styles is the monochromatic ensemble, that only evolves as times go by. For Iris & Ink, their monochromatic look can be achieved by combining pieces like their tuxedo blazer, pleated skirt and a shoulder bag in shades of stunning blue.
Iris & Ink www.theoutnet.com/en-hk
MICHAEL KORS
Perfectly in line with this season’s classic blue trend, Michael Kors’s trench coat is cut from cotton-gabardine. It has classic details, including a double-breasted front, storm flaps and shoulder epaulets. Use the monotone belt to cinch the waist for a more elegant effect while emphasizing your waistline.
Michael Kors Shoppes at Cotai Central, Shop 1019a, Level 1, Cotai, Macau, +853 2885 3031, www.michaelkors.com
MICHELLE MASON
As a former model, Michelle Mason’s dependably chic diffusion line includes the label’s signature asymmetric skirts, leather leggings and silk tunics to be every woman’s go-to urban uniform. Perfect for the modern working women, these wide-leg trousers with a gathered waistband in lustrous silk satin is a perfect upgrade for corporate office wear. It features side pockets and invisible back zipper for a more modern and chic aesthetic combined with the color of the year.
Michelle Mason michellemason.net
RAG & BONE
This fringed cashmere scarf from Rag & Bone is made in Italy from soft cashmere in a royal and classic blue hue. It will contrast nicely against neutral sweaters and beige coats without being too loud. It has a wide, enveloping shape and fringed edges. Knot it around your neck or drape it across the shoulders to keep yourself warm while looking chic.
Rag & Bone www.rag-bone.com