Color Alert: MARSALA 2015 Color of the Year

Pantone has announced the color of 2015. A wine red tint is going to rule over fashion and interior design this coming year. Named after wine made in Sicilly, Marsala is a muted color that is a bit similar to the ever trendy oxblood, only lighter, washed out and with more brown to it.

Annually Pantone declares a particular color "Color of the Year". Twice a year the company hosts, in a European capital, a secret meeting of representatives from various nations' color standards groups. After two days of presentations and debate, they choose a color for the following year. For example, the color for summer 2013 was chosen in London in the spring of 2012. The results of the meeting are published in Pantone View ($750), which fashion designers, florists, and many other consumer-oriented companies purchase to help guide their designs and planning for future products.

Pantone (pantone.com) states Marsala as a "unifying element" and describes the color and its uses:

"The impactful, full-bodied qualities of Marsala make for an elegant, grounded statement color when used on its own or as a strong accent to many other colors."

"Add elegance to any room by incorporating this rich and welcoming hue in accent pieces, accessories and paint. Marsala’s plush characteristics are enhanced when the color is applied to textured surfaces, making it an ideal choice for rugs and upholstered living room furniture."

"Much like the fortified wine that gives Marsala its name, this tasteful hue embodies the satisfying richness of a fulfilling meal while its grounding red-brown roots emanate a sophisticated, natural earthiness."