Pantone Colour for 2020 – Classic Blue

Pantone colours are set by American company Pantone™ best described as the language of colour.

A chart consisting of 1,925 colours are used as a reference point for colour matching in the fashion industry.

Each colour has a specific reference number which is easier than trying to describe a colour. It is used to forecast trends; last year the colour trend was ‘Living Coral’ or Pantone™ 16-1546, a good choice if you ask me, but then I’m biased!

‘Classic Blue’ or Pantone™19-4052, has been announced as this year’s colour trend, which means it will be of most influence during 2020. This will be seen in clothing to household goods, kitchen appliances, furnishing, extending to cars.

In these instances it’s not so much about the psychology of colour i.e. blue can be considered calming (however, that also depends on the hue of the colour blue in question). If ever you have wondered, why, when shopping there is a dominance of one particular colour in clothing this is the ‘trend’ being set. Not all designers follow this ‘rule of trend’ some preferring to create their own colour palette for designs.

Interestingly, I have noticed there are a lot of yellow coloured garments in some independent stores for this season, a colour, as it happens, that wears well with blue.

The day dress pictured at the top of this article dates back to 1862; the development of natural and synthetic dyes were gathering in momentum, jewel-like colours being very popular, and bright blue being a favourite. While the blue colour trend has returned to peak favour in 2020, of course fashion designs have changed considerably.

From a designer’s viewpoint it’s fascinating to observe the evolution of fashion design not just from a historical viewpoint, but also that of society. The fitted bodice and voluminous skirt is called a ‘day dress’ or a form of dress for the day, as opposed to a dress which is a one-piece garment. In this instance, the numerous layers of undergarments, along with fitted whalebone corset (also pictured), which is worn on top of layering, with camisole tops, over which is worn the outer garment. All of which are considered to be morally acceptable attire.

Then and now comparisons do not equate on any level; just the thought of all those layers for the bodice and skirt has me reaching for a fan and a cool drink, as I sit writing wearing a jersey top, maxi skirt and a little shrug for warmth. Oh how far dressing for the day has changed, and what a relief, but that’s how women were expected to dress 158 years ago.

Photograph taken at V&A Museum garment made of Jacquard woven silk, trimmed with satin lined with silk cotton and whalebone strips. (Donated by Miss I.B. McClure.) Museum no T.2-1984.