Spring 2012 color trends - Driftwood -

Not quite brown and not quite taupe is how we would describe Pantone 18-121 Driftwood. It’s the perfect neutral tone to compliment some of the bolder colors of the season like Margarita and Sweet Lilac. We aren’t the only ones who like Driftwood. Designers like Pamella Rowland, Diane von Furstenberg, Rick Owens and Rebecca Minkoff worked the hue into their Spring 2012 collections. 

What I'm wearing:

Leather jacket: H&M, Leggins: H&M Divided, Booties: H&M, Sweater: H&M, Bag: H&M, Belt: Temptation Boutique, Cardigan: Temptation Boutique, Jewelry: Swarovski, Watch: Guess

A leather jacket and layers!! Yep, that's my suit to brave the cold and rainy weather that we're facing in Holland right now. You wouldn't say it's actually May, but I still believe it's just a matter of time until the sun appears and the temperature rises. 

 As the mercury begins to rise and the days grow longer, the fashion industry is exploding with spring's hottest new color trends. Traditionally, eye-catching hues like oranges, greens, blues, pinks, purples and yellows grace the runways – eventually working their way into retail apparel and employee uniforms for work. While there might be some variation in terms of shades and intensity, you can often rely on spring styles to make heavy use of these bright, flashy colors. However, it seems that the industry has embraced a more downplayed tone this season – driftwood.

 Offsetting spring 2012's more energetic colors, driftwood is a versatile hue that brings natural and practical appeal to any wardrobe. Pantone recently named this subtle variation of traditional beige one of the season's most in-demand and appealing color trends – particularly when used as a complement to light greens and pinks.

 "Consumers look to spring for renewed energy, optimism and the promise of a bright day," said Leatrice Eiseman, executive director of the Pantone Color Institute. "They have learned how color can help them alter a mood and provide the vitality and enthusiasm that enables them to experiment with new looks and color combinations."

The restrained quality of driftwood also makes it an ideal shade for businesses looking to convey a sense of upscale approachability to customers and clients. Wearables Magazine shared Pantone's enthusiasm for this inviting neutral color, noting that fashion industry powerhouses Calvin Klein and Chloe recently embraced driftwood in their new clothing collections. In particular, corporate apparel can benefit the most from driftwood's subtle sophistication.

"Driftwood conveys a feeling of solidarity, creating a warm sense of comfort and dependability," industry insider Mary Ellen Nichols told Wearables Magazine. "[It] exudes a calming, relaxing effect on the wearer."

 Here are 10 Driftwood items to check out now:

1. DRKSHDW by Rick Owens Asymmetric Draped Cotton-Jersey Dress, $385
2. Cheap Monday Justine Dress, $45
3. Nation LTD Destin Dress, $179
4. J Brand 811 Ankle Skinny Jeans, $170
5. ASOS Dress with Lace Top, $71.62
6. ASOS V-Neck Pleat Waist Knitted Dress, $62.67
7. Balzane Crossbody, $930
8. Buchanan & Zavala Sleeveless Shell, $295 & Faux-Wrap Slit Skirt, $495
9. Diane von Furstenberg Metallic Canvas Lytton Minaudiere, $295
10. Chinti and Parker Strapless Bamboo-Jersey Maxi Dress, $270

Drift away into beauty this spring with this soft and subtle Driftwood brown!