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color association of the united states
The Color Association of the United States, established in 1915, is the oldest trend forecasting organization in America. The association issues seasonal fashion forecasts in three categories - men's, women's and children's - as well as an annual forecast in the field of environmental/interior design. Color forecasts are released 20 months in advance of a season. For the apparel forecasts, the palette is displayed in either colored yarns or silk fabrics; in the environmental/interior design category, the forecast is shown on a combination of silkscreened and textured fabrics. Each forecast is determined by an 8- to 12-member panel of working professionals from the relevant field, and is accompanied by an additional deck of swatches.
Contact: www.colorassociation.com
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 2005 / 2006 INTERIOR/ENVIRONMENT FORECAST
While color and design developments continue to reflect the wish for comfortable colors in a world of many uncertainties, new shade entries are of particular interest in three markets: cosmetic products, health care and hospitality. Two trends are noteworthy. One is an emphasis on reds, beige pinks and other soft brights. Another theme is an emphasis on honest or organic materials whose colors are soothing and of mid-value. These are reassuring colors, familiar to specific places. Several association members remarked on how the light and colors from different geographical regions were important sources for their palettes.
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CLARITY IN 2005-2006
Looking toward the future the Color Association is forecasting full spectrum palettes. Although leading color directions will be cools like Watery Blues and Greens, as well as sensual Purples like Lilac and Violet, Warm Oranges, Yellows and Pinks will continue to be a popular presence in American design. The important trend really comes in the area of clarity - no matter the hue, colors in the next few years will feel either fresh and clean or rich and vibrant. We have truly crossed the bridge from the smoky, muted color stories dominating the previous decade.
Ethereal Pales - Soft Creams and Silvers, Sea Foam Green and Light Sky Blue - are often inspired by romantic watercolors. Lush Brights - Glittering Teal and Ruby, Leafy Greens, Pretty Peaches and Coral - are evocative of exotic flora and fauna. Modern neons, especially Acid Greens and Fiery Reds and Oranges, are here to stay.
The resurgence of interest in prints and patterns is another force behind the trend in multicolors. In particular, vintage designers from Marimekko, Emilio Pucci and Lilly Pulitzer are finding new audiences. The three are connected by their use of chic, flat graphics and lively palettes featuring daring color combinations.
After almost two decades of dominance by Black, Brown and Beige in both dressing and interiors, happy colors are a strong antidote for our stressful times. As Color Association director Margaret Walch notes, "It is almost as if color is sounding a wake-up call, beckoning us to chill out amidst worries of global warming and political uncertainty. Additionally, the very vividness of the palette suggests a revitalization of individual style in troubled times."
The print media will play an increasing role in the imaginative use of a full color spectrum. Associate director Christine Chow remarks, "The growing importance of illustration, both digital and hand drawn, has allowed print artists to become more creative with the palette through subtle color variations, ombré effects and painterly finishes." The popularity of the rainbow may also lead to a renewed interest in holographic effects.
It is worthwhile pointing out that the resurgence in color does not signal the death of black. In fact, Deep Black, along with Optic White, is a perfect foil for modern brights. Additionally, both in fashion and in packaging, an all-black palette will make a dramatic understatement, but it will become increasingly important to use interesting textures, volumes and finishes to add modern allure to this look.
2005/2006 fashion FORECAST
A common theme that emerged from the association's forecasting sessions was the impact of processed, embellished or vintage fabrics on color choices. At the men's meeting fading, distressing, triple dyeing and the subjecting of color to other "workings" were explored in the light of new look denims and men's shirtings. At the women's meeting the preference was for faded colors and soft vintage hues. The children's committee discussed how clever finishes, whether in the form of matte or high gloss surfaces and textured appliqué effects, will continue to add interest and new dimensions to design.
Product design, whether in the newer technologies like cell phones or traditional home goods such as glassware, was cited as an emerging influence on clothing markets. More and more, a design rejuvenation is taking place in markets outside of apparel, with staple products like sewing machines being re-colored.
The three fashion forecasting committees all agreed that contemporary color has become less seasonal and even less gender specific. Thus, Aquas, Tight Teals, Ochres and Soft Purples are projected as leading colors on the cards for Fall 2005. Pairing summery and wintery hues will establish newness in color design directions.
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| A selection from the 2005/2006 men's fashion Forecast |
A selection from the 2005/2006 children's fashion Forecast |
A selection from the 2005/2006 women's fashion Forecast |
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