Blue – the colour of the 2020
PANTONE BLUE
This year, Pantone has chosen blue as the Colour of the Year, which comes as no surprise. Fashion, colours, and trends do not emerge artificially; rather, they reflect the era and the state of society. Blue, as a reliable, classic, and pure colour, has taken over 25 years to resurface. A timeless and enduring shade, PANTONE 19-4052 Classic Blue is elegant in its simplicity. Reminiscent of the evening sky, its calming qualities emphasise our desire for a dependable and stable foundation as we step into a new era. It imprints itself on our souls like a moment of rest, bringing peace and tranquillity to the human spirit. PANTONE 19-4052 Classic Blue aids concentration and brings clarity.
THE SYMBOLISM OF PURE BLUE
Blue is the opposite of yellow; it has an inward effect. It evokes the endless sky, the deep ocean, and a sense of distance. Dark blue conveys the greatest level of authority. It symbolises virtue, wisdom, precision, and order, but also dullness and conservatism.
ROYAL BLUE
Historically, blue was derived from the indigo plant and the semi-precious stone lapis lazuli. Indigo-dyed fabrics have been found on 5,000-year-old mummies. In the 13th century, radiant blue was used to dye the robes in which French kings were crowned, giving rise to the term Parisian blue or royal blue.
BLUE BLOOD
Church dignitaries and aristocrats did not expose themselves to the sun as labourers did. Sun exposure was believed to be harmful. As the noble classes did not tan, the blue veins beneath their fair skin were more visible, leading to the belief that their blood was blue.
BLUE CLOTHING
If you want to project an image of seriousness, reliability, trustworthiness, and authority, opt for a dark blue suit. Dark blue suits almost all skin tones and colour types. However, as it can appear somewhat conservative, it is not typically associated with creativity.
BLUE CLOTHING AND YOUR NATURAL COLOURING
Dark blue suits all colour types, though for the lightest complexions (blonde hair, blue eyes, delicate skin), a slightly muted shade of blue may be even more flattering. Those whose colour palette includes both dark blue and black are advised to choose one or the other for better coordination. The exception is men who wear business suits, as their wardrobe should include both a dark blue and a black suit.
Explore some inspiring outfit and accessory combinations featuring this year’s blue:
https://www.styleoholic.com/classic-blue-outfits/
https://www.styleoholic.com/classic-blue-accessories/
https://www.styleoholic.com/classic-blue-outerwear-items/