Color trends for 2012 are similar to last year’s but all seem to take a small twist. Here, we’ll look at three trends that will impact the printed apparel industry to better understand the implications of these color sets.
Under the sea
As we begin 2012, the bold primary tones of the past morph into stronger, richer and more vibrant shades of blue and green. Strong cobalt and rich marine and royal tones comprise the darkest category of the blue tones.
As the blues lighten, we see tropical influences and transitions to blues with green undertones or vice-versa. These crisp, refreshing colors are reminiscent of Caribbean waters and underwater plant life. Azul, aqua and sea-foam green are energizing pops used in combination with the lighter spring whites and neutrals or the deep shades hunter and chocolate brown in the winter.
These color sets are excellent for subtle designs, most popular in men’s wear.
New life to neutrals
Similar to how blue tones become richer in 2012, the cold, stark gray and taupe shades transition to more steel and camel tones. Richer earthy tones with high saturation of color give life to these neutrals while still allowing them to be used as a neutral tone in combination with other colors.
Increased yellow undertones in the browns and tans—along with magenta and purple influences in the gray shades—offer a softness, warmth and approachability. They offer the capability to take on a new life when sharply juxtaposed with a cyan blue or a fluorescent purple. Neutrals are great for creating a soft look on any fabric; very popular with women’s and leisure wear.
Hot colors
Seemingly out of nowhere, 2012 brings about a new pop of color with electric and bright fluorescents. Traditional neon yellows, greens and reds are now competing with electric turquoise, fluorescent purples and even electric royal blues.
As the hot color palette expands in scope and popularity, this color group boldly takes on a more refined, mature approach with darker shades of teal, fuchsia and deep lilac while still maintaining the electric pop and strong fluorescent intensity.
Hot colors are very popular for young women and children’s wear. For boys and men’s wear, hot colors are best used as highlight or small wow factor areas in a design.
Color Psychology
When selecting colors for a logo or design, an artist should consider color as an equal partner in conveying a message. Many colors are tied to emotions and feelings— red with anger; green with envy or just feeling blue are example of these ties.
Blue illustrates peace, tranquility or hard work and loyalty (think “true blue”). This is a great color for conveying a conservative, dependable image.
Green can be associated with money or success, but is usually associated to natural themes. Like blue, it is a calming color, especially when it’s a shade similar to those in nature.
Red represents fire, passion and toughness. When red is included in a logo or design, it stimulates a faster heartbeat and breathing. A little red goes a long way, so it’s best used as an accent.
Yellow is a happy color, it bursts with open-eyed energy. It conveys happiness and creativity in design. Too much is over-stimulating; it’s best used as a highlight.
Orange is combination of red and yellow—conveying energy, passion and happiness while toning down aggressive qualities. Thus, orange is stimulating, yet warm and comfortable. Often used for youth and youth care designs.
Purple signifies nobility, wisdom and dignity. Therefore, using purple gives an aura of class and respect. It’s a color of fantasy and imagination, making it popular for adolescent and pre-teen girl designs.
Brown is an earthy color, suggesting grounded reliability. Dubbed as the new black, it is used as a soft key-line in many designs. Brown conveys a certain intelligence and sophistication in a design or logo.
Black connotes drama, mystery and timeless style. No other color is used as much to express a formal, elegant and authoritative look. It is also the color of choice for musicians, artists, and students of the arts.
Color is vital. But, knowing how a color can influence emotion or opinion will create a new dimension for the image. Learning how to use these influences will help a designer bring emotion into mix.
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