Every December, the Pantone Institute chooses a color for the upcoming year, based on trends seen on the runway. While last year’s pick was Honeysuckle, a subtle blush pink, the hue for 2012 is coming in with a bang: Tangerine Tango is a bright, eye-catching orange with hints of coral and red. It’s passionate, vivacious, and sultry, and, the Institute says, it’s meant to “bring out the energy in all of us, to recharge and move forward.” Once you pick up a few basic pieces, the shade can be a neutral to pair with items you already have in your closet.
Here are our suggestions to get you started:
Thrown over a blush or cream blouse or shirt, this jacket immediately updates any outfit. Go for a pair of trousers to make the look office ready or a pair of dark denims for the weekend. Modekungen Figure Jacket ($86.36)
Whether it’s your work files, your iPad, or just weekend essentials, this affordable little crossbody goes with anything and holds a lot. Worn with your peacoat in the winter or over your shoulder with spring and summer outfits, this bag is sure to have passersby begging to know “Where did you get that??” Forever21 Structured Crossbody ($20)
Tan, black, and red are shoe staples—so why not add orange into the mix? Paired with a pair of black tights in winter and florals, neutrals and skirts in the spring and summer, these platforms are just right for a tango-filled night. Flavell Platform Pump ($100)
Add a little funk to your look with these tangerine tasseled earrings from Jenny Jenny. Wear them with muted colors as a statement accessory or go for a colorblock look by wearing them with an outfit full of fun shades. Jenny Jenny Tassel Earrings ($40)
Essie’s Capri is a tangerine match made in heaven. It instantly makes your manicure breezier and happier, and goes surprisingly well with whatever palettes are already in your wardrobe. Essie in Capri ($6-$8)
