Sometimes what experts in the field dictate does not have to be what ends up as a success on the street because, after all, taste and preferences are governed by perception and subjectivity. The same happens year after year, by way of example, with colour. A few weeks ago, Pantone ruled which colour would influence the world of fashion in 2020, as well as among other sectors such as design, decoration or advertising. The colour chosen is Pantone 19-4052 Classic Blue, a timeless blue shade that aims to provide calm, confidence and connection in a year that acts as a hinge between two decades. Classic Blue is the theory dictated by the colour authority after a year of research and analysis of trends. In practice, the reality is different because it does not always lead to success among the knowledgeable public that creates the trend and the moment, where the colour that is triumphing in fashion is lilac or lavender. And who endorses it? The answer is to be found on the catwalks of the Spring-Summer 2020 collections and it is put it into practice by celebrities, prescribers of style and experts in the field who have not hesitated to wear it on the street, thus creating an advance idea as to what will come next season.
On the catwalk
The latest creations from the big fashion companies flirt with lilac and lavender. Each one chooses the tone that suits them best, but always within the lighter, usually presented palette in monochrome looks in the company of complements in neutral shades. It is a delicate tone that brings uniqueness, femininity and a cold counterpoint to the ideal styles when temperatures are at their highest.
The vaporous chiffon and tulle dresses of Ulla Johnson or the extensive satin creations of Max Mara, the spectacular canvas-dresses with huge bows from Valentino, the most minimalist creations proposals with pronounced openings by Givenchy or even Alessandro Michele in Gucci have all made lilac into one of the most memorable looks of the new season. It is also worth remembering the impressive parade by Jacquemus amid the lavender fields of her native French Provence. The spectacular staging commemorates the tenth anniversary of one of the fashion-houses most in demand among millennials and the Z generation.
On the street
In parallel to the catwalks the most pastel purple began to (re) emerge strongly last year in the street style of the most influential fashion cities. Around the traditional parades in New York, London, Paris, Milan and Copenhagen (their street fashion show also deserves a mention), the style prescribers were the first to wear their outfits dyed in this singular colour that appeals to feminism.
Throughout 2019 some lavender looks have also been seen on the world’s most prominent red carpets. We remember, for example, singer Taylor Swift and her short dress with romantic-inspired frills to attend the Billboard Music Awards or the dress worn by the youngest of the Kardashians girl at the MET Gala 2019. Actresses Emilia Clarke and Charlize Theron also opted for a Lavender shade: Clarke opted for a Balmain dress at the 2019 Oscars gala and Theron for a tailor-like suit. Even the British it-girl, Alexa Chung, opted for this colour in a vintage style dress with lace and transparencies at the BoF Gala during Paris Fashion Week.
At Gratacós we also pay homage to the femininity of lilac and present some of the fabrics for next season. Some of them are have now in the sales. Ask us and we will advise you!