Feb 18, 2013 01:36
by Natasha Saroca
Hands up if you’ve been glued to your computer/smart phone/tablet screen for the past couple of weeks, checking out all the action from New York Fashion Week and now London, where the fashionable set have converged for another round of runway shows.
Guilty? Then chances are you’ve noticed there’s a hot new trend that iconic designers and emerging talents have embraced alike. No, we’re not talking embellishments, metallic tones or sharp tailoring – though, these have also reigned on the runway – but the abundant use of a particular shade of green: emerald, to be exact.
Recently crowned Pantone’s Colour of the Year for 2013, this lively and radiant jewel tone is undoubtedly the must-try shade for the seasons ahead. It’s fresh, energising, bold, soothing and luxurious, all at once. And did we mention that it’s oh-so versatile and universally flattering, too? Best. News. Ever.
Spotted on the catwalks of Monique Lhuillier, Michael Kors and Vivienne Westwood, emerald green suits just about everyone, regardless of skin tone or hair colour – yes, even you, our fair and fiery red-headed friends – so there’s no excuse not to at least dabble with this decadent shade.
If your signature style is bright and bold, try rocking emerald from top-to-toe in the form of a dress or pantsuit, with coordinating accessories, and a hint of metallic and other electric tones for a chic contrast.
For those who are more wallflower than way-out-there, a colour blocked ensemble – with emerald as the starring shade – may be the best option for you. Likewise, wearing floral or graphic-print pieces with splashes of vivid green or accessories in this hue, offer easy ways to introduce a touch of emerald into your daily attire.
Apart from metallics and neutral tones, and a classic black and white palette, other colours that work a treat with emerald green include pinks, purples, orange and the spectrum of blues. When pairing emerald with these punchy hues, be careful not to go OTT – if in doubt, tone it down with pastels or classic tan, cream or beige to take the edge off.
From a cool colour-blocked jumper to a pair of glamorous bejewelled earrings, here’s our edit of emerald essentials to add to your autumn/winter wardrobe wish-list.
