Radiant Fusion

“A dazzling attention-getter” is how Pantone described its color of 2014, Radiant Orchid, in a December 5, 2013 press release. Each year Pantone, the experts who set the standards on color, announces a color of the year that influences fashion and beauty as well as home décor.  Radiant Orchid is a beautiful color that looks pretty on everyone.

You certainly don’t need to dress monochromatic Radiant Orchid from head to toe. You can easily incorporate the shade into your wardrobe by wearing a Radiant Orchid top or blazer with jeans. Or try wearing an accessory (shoes, jewelry, a purse, a scarf, or sunglasses) in a Radiant Orchid tone. Update your make-up by using a lipstick, tint, or eye shadow in the Radiant Orchid color palette.

Here is a board with a couple looks inspired by Radiant Orchid. One of my favorite pieces of clothing is a basic black pencil skirt, so naturally I first matched a Radiant Orchid colored top with the skirt. I then found the perfect dress and accessorized it with gorgeous jewelry from Henri Bendel and Alexis Bittar.

Looks inspired by Pantone's color of 2014 - Radiant Orchid

Looks inspired by Pantone’s color of 2014 – Radiant Orchid

Not only does Radiant Orchid work well with black, but it is also stunning paired with many colors. I chose some Pantone colors (below) that mix and match well with Radiant Orchid for spring. Even though Emerald was the Pantone color of 2013, it’s still a lovely shade to wear transitioning into spring. For example, Honeysuckle, Sand, and Radiant Orchid make a cute bright spring outfit.

This spring mix and match Radiant Orchid with these Pantone colors.

This spring mix and match Radiant Orchid with these Pantone colors.

Before you go shopping for everything Radiant Orchid, check your closet. You may be surprised how many pieces you already own that are this color or a very close hue. I found a few blouses and purses. One peplum shirt is radiant orchid on top and Dazzling Blue on the bottom part of the peplum.

Hope to see you all in this fabulous color of the year!

Dressing for Winter

Just because it’s freezing outside doesn’t mean you have to sacrifice fashion. Here is a stylish winter look made up of warm fabrics like leather and cashmere. Make sure your layers of clothes match in case you get warm and need to remove a sweater. Your finger tips and toes can quickly become cold in these chilly temperatures, so make sure to wear thick gloves (gloves with fur or faux-fur linings are a good idea), and a good pair of boots. I like the Tory Burch black boots shown below because of the wedge heel. You’re still wearing a heel, but can walk through snow – stylish and functional.  In these sub-zero temperatures, it is important to protect your eyes from the wind and sun so remember to wear your sunglasses.  A chic scarf is a must and should be large enough to wrap around your neck a couple times. Keep warm friends!

2014 winter look

Look well-dressed this winter by layering on leather and cashmere. Coat, sweaters, scarf, hat and gloves shown above are made of cashmere. Leather pants are a stylish way to keep warm.