London designers are bucking tradition in favor for bright color ways for Fall/Winter 20-21. Pantone Color Institute recently published its F/W 20-21 palette for London Fashion Week—a color story that the color expert says evokes a sense of “optimistic determination and purpose.”
Considering the region’s uncertain political state following Brexit getting the green light, coupled with a looming global climate crisis, the uplifting colors might be just what society needs.
“F/W 20-21 is a story of mindfulness as we see a stripping back of color to the essentials,” Leatrice Eiseman, the Pantone Color Institute’s executive director, said. “Prevailing in singular color statements, our color story for F/W 20-21 conveys a message of strength and purposefulness with a sense of optimism.”
The color collection features 10 colors, including both classic and vibrant takes on red and blue. On the brighter end of the palette, Mandarin Red serves as a “provocative orange-infused red tone” and Exuberance Orange expresses spontaneity and happiness, Pantone described. Celery, a yellow-green color, adds a botanical vibe, while Strong Blue smacks of confidence.
The brights are paired alongside a sultry Samba Red, a reliable True Blue, a strong Military Olive and a cooling Ultramarine Green. Tawny Birch, a “woodsy tan” adds a rustic nature to the palette, while Burnt Henna does double duty, adding sophistication and earthiness, Pantone said.
A stable of F/W 20-21 classics can either stand alone or serve as a foundation for the other hues, Pantone said. Jet Stream, a shade of off-white, evokes a sense of raw and recycled fabric. Sheepskin adds a rich camel tone to the story, while Dress Blues and Sleet convey credibility and dependability.
The color collection for London Fashion Week complements the Pantone Color of the Year 2020, Classic Blue.