While you can obviously wear any color whenever you want, there's no denying that certain hues just seem to fit certain seasons. Just like bright pinks, turquoise, and white seem to fit for summer, there are more muted, slightly darker tones that are arguably the best colors to wear for fall. In fact, I would argue that fall offers the best shades to wear because there are so many gorgeous options to choose from — and chances are, you'll even match the fall foliage show happening in the great outdoors.
So, which colors should you wear for fall as we begin to transition into cooler weather? Using a mix of classic fall colors and the Pantone Fall 2015 shades, I put together a list that will help you put together a stylish and trendy wardrobe for the upcoming season. As Pantone's website states, "This season displays an umbrella of accord that weaves earthy neutrals with a range of bold color statements and patterns to reflect a landscape of hope, fun, fantasy and all things natural."
When determining which hues are "in" for each season, Pantone experts travel the world to see which colors they notice the most. It's mainly in regards to fashion shows throughout New York City, Paris, Milan, and London, but as Leatrice Eiseman (the executive director of Pantone Color Institute), told Glamour, they also look at the colors most often used in films, new cars, makeup, and so much more.
You can of course opt to shun all of these shades and just wear all black every day, but throwing a little color into your wardrobe is never a bad idea.
1. Marsala
Ryan Ribbed Mini Dress, $15, Nasty Gal
Marsala is Pantone's 2015 color of the year, and since it's a perfect shade for fall and winter, you're definitely going to see it all over the place. Marsala is a red-brown wine color, and is pretty similar to burgundy or maroon. It's a gorgeous shade that complements everyone. This dress can be worn with tights, boots, and a sweater on cold fall days.
2. Mustard
Monki Zip Detail Long Line Cardigan, $16, ASOS
One of Pantone's colors for fall was is called Oak Bluff, but it reminded me of mustard — and since mustard is one of my favorite hues for fall, it was perfect! According to Pantone, it's a "mellow, comforting, and warming shade that brings good feelings." Mustard looks especially great on chunky sweaters and warm scarves.
3. Camel
Merino Turtle-Neck Sweater, $60, The Gap
Although camel wasn't on Pantone's list, I had to add it because it's such a classic fall shade. You can wear camel colors in literally any item of clothing, from pants to sweaters to jackets. Camel boots are also a great option because they're so versatile.
4. Olive Green
Lyocell Jumpsuit, $60, H&M
One of Pantone's colors is called Dried Herb, which is basically the same as olive green — already a great fall color. Try olive green basically any way you want to, especially in cargo, which is big this season. You can go for a cool jumpsuit like this one, or something more simple like a tee or sweater.
5. Gray/Blue
ASOS Curve Waterfall Parka, $78, ASOS
Another Pantone color is called Stormy Weather, which is supposed to be the same color as the sky on a stormy, rainy day. How fitting that this ASOS parka is literally the exact shade.
6. Sage
Cotton Shirt, $13, H&M
Desert Sage is another Pantone color that is a cool greenish/gray color. It's stylish, pretty, and a little bit different. I love how it looks in this cotton shirt.
7. Burgundy
Glamorous Neck To Neck Crop Turtleneck, $17, Nasty Gal
Burgundy is super similar to marsala, but it has earned a spot on this list because it's such a great fall and winter shade. And it's a little bit darker than marsala, so it's different enough! You can get burgundy in literally everything, but I personally love this turtleneck.
8. Dark Turquoise
Textured Knit Vest, $22.90, Forever 21
Pantone's name for the dark blue-green color on their list is Reflecting Pond, which sounds so pretty and relaxing. It's almost like a dark turquoise, which is such a nice shade. This knit vest is a perfect layering piece for fall.
9. Rose
Element Laurel Hooded Cardigan, $60, Nordstrom
Bored of earth tones? Pantone's list for fall colors also included some brighter, more feminine options, like their Cashmere Rose hue, which is kind of like a dusty pink. Pink may remind you of spring and summer, but in this slightly more muted shade, it looks perfect for October or November.
10. Orchid
Caslon Shirred V-Neck Tee, $9.90, Nordstrom
If you're craving something even brighter, go for Amethyst Orchid, another Pantone color. This vibrant purple will stand out among the foliage. Keep it simple with a plain tee like this one, or use this color in a formal dress to go out.
11. Orange
ASOS Tunic Top, $24, ASOS
What would fall be without an orange that matches the falling leaves? Pantone's orange is called Cadmium Orange, and it's a little bit lighter than the Halloween orange you may be thinking of. Try it in this tunic top.
12. Teal
Short-Sleeved Dress, $25, H&M
The last Pantone color is a gorgeous teal, called Biscay Blue. Teal may not be typically associated with fall, but as you can see, it blends in perfectly with everything else. And it's nice pop of bright color among all those earth tones!
Get out there and show that foliage who's boss.
Images: Redd Angelo/Unsplash; Courtesy Brands
