Forget the fashion fads; black is the “new black.” Even when all of the other elements of fashion are in flux, black is a constant basic, season after season. “Although no one needs another basic black cocktail dress, black is still our number one seller,” says designer Carmen Marc Valvo. “So, it’s about making black special.”
Black is well-suited for 2010: It’s less “flashy” at a time when it’s considered gauche to flaunt, it’s a natural complement to rich hues and metallics, and it stands out as something truly original. It’s also a striking complement to several of Pantone’s must-have colors for Spring 2010: Tomato Purée red, Aurora yellow, Violet purple, and the new neutral, Pink Champagne.
The very same customer who, in years past, sought out the most brilliant of colorless stones is now searching for high-impact pieces at the other end of the spectrum. There is a desire to have the most unique luxury items, not the most perfect specimens of the luxuries of the masses.
As a result, the four C’s have slowly given way to the four E’s: exploration, experimentation, expression, and experience. Consumers are more willing than ever to look at products they may have passed on before, as well as to try (and buy) things that are new to them. The fashionable will be finding:
Be ready for browns all around in:
- Black diamonds paired with colorless diamonds;
- Inlaid gemstones and minerals in midnight hues;
- Blackened metals and dark-treated finishes;
- Carved tone-on-tone shadow designs;
- Sable elements in animal designs (such as eyes or spots);
- Men’s pieces with a multitude of inky stones; as well as
- Edgy, rocker chic looks. JQ
