By Jessica Tomes, TMD Social Media Director
“Radiant orchid blooms with confidence and magical warmth that intrigues the eye and sparks the imagination. It is an expressive, creative, and embracing purple—one that draws you in with its beguiling charm. A captivating harmony of fuchsia, purple, and pink undertones, radiant orchid emanates great joy, love, and health.” www.pantone.com
Hooray! Radiant orchid, a perfectly purple-pink hue, is the Pantone Color of the Year for 2014. And I for one could not be more excited. As a faithful TCU alumni and Horned Frog fan forever (despite some of our more recent humiliating losses in football), I am a huge supporter of purple power. After all, our school colors were purple and white. I have had quite a few purple items in my closet for several years now, and I am so pumped to share my love with all of you, our devoted TMD readers. Trust me, give it a chance and you will soon love rocking purple, too!
LROD is the new LBD.
The most obvious way to incorporate this gorgeous hue into your wardrobe is to purchase a fun little dress or top in the popular shade. Many clothing designers (both mainstream and high end) are embracing radiant orchid, a color that looks good on almost everyone. Nervous about pulling off this trend? Stay away from head-to-toe looks. Instead, pair a radiant orchid hued top with dressy dark denim for a night out on the town, or try a pair of fuchsia jeans with a summery white top for a daytime chic look. I predict we will see many versions of the LROD (the Little Radiant Orchid Dress) for weddings and special occasions in 2014.
Put a little radiant orchid in your step.
Us ladies are always looking for an excuse to buy a new pair of shoes, aren’t we? Stay on top of the radiant orchid trend with a new pair of sandals or a gorgeous pair of heels in this super fun shade. The bright hue is perfect for spring and summer, paired with a simple sundress or some equally playful printed shorts. A pop of color for evening is always a good idea (especially paired with a classic black cocktail dress). I have a pair of Tory Burch flats in this exact shade, and I have been able to wear them season after season—definitely worth the investment.
Accessorize, accessorize, accessorize.
One of the easiest ways to try out a new trend or a new shade is to update your accessories: think of this as a trial-run, a nod to convention, without a full-on commitment. A new purse, a new cell phone or iPad case, a pair of earrings—any and all of these are wonderful ways to incorporate the popular Pantone shade into your personal style. One of my favorite ways to incorporate a pop of color is with my arm candy. I love a brightly hued wristwatch, don’t you? When in doubt, a radiant orchid statement necklace is always a lovely option, especially paired with a plain white tee.
“It’s not what you spend, but how you wear it that counts. The key is to dress up inexpensive basics with accessories. Something like a beautiful designer bag or belt can make everything else look richer and more luxurious.” Chloe Sevigny
B is for beauty.
Another practical (and probably the most fun) way to try out a new color is by updating your beauty products. Why not rock a radiant orchid hued lipstick (with otherwise toned down makeup of course), or a punchy fuchsia eye shadow? Monotony is boring, and I know you, glamour girl, are anything but. Worried about trying out your new look on your cohorts at the office? Try a new shade of nail polish instead. Almost anything goes when it comes to nail color and art these days, so why not give radiant orchid a try? Both Butter London and OPI offer a few fun options for this season.
Favorite radiant orchid finds this season.
Badgley Mischka Nikki Pump. Kate Spade Alexandria Top. Kate Spade Carousel Bangle. Kate Spade Roxie Dress. Tory Burch Robinson Saffiano Case for iPhone. Tory Burch Miller Sandal in Dark Fucshia.
Born and raised in Southeast Texas, Jessica currently lives in Billings, Montana with her husband Tyler, and her one year old daughter Savannah. Jessica graduated from Texas Christian University where she studied Broadcast Journalism. (Go Frogs!) A writer, blogger, and fashion enthusiast, Jessica also owns her own business: Jessica Morgan Photography and Events. She loves everything about weddings, and is so excited to have joined the team at Tamara Menges Designs! She is expecting her second baby girl, Emma Kate, in March of 2014.