Pantone has spoken: It's out with the orchid purple, and in with the marsala. Named for the decadent wine, Pantone's 2015 Color of the Year is a rich, robust color that elicits a refined-yet-earthy mood. And unlike last year's punchy purple hue, the earthy shade's got an unmistakably hearty attitude. "Much like the fortified wine that gives marsala its name, this tasteful hue embodies the satisfying richness of a fulfilling meal, while it's grounding red-brown roots emanate a sophisticated, natural earthiness," Leatrice Eiseman, Pantone Color Institute's executive director, said via press release. "This hearty, yet stylish tone is universally appealing and translates easily to fashion, beauty, industrial design, home furnishings and interiors."
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And clearly, celebs are already on board with the off-maroon color. Most recently, Blake Lively sported the smoky hue in a two-toned draped Gucci design at the 2014 Cannes International Film Festival. And at the 2013 Golden Globe Awards after-party, Miranda Kerrblew everyone away in an effortlessly romantic Zuhair Murad gown in the plush shade. Really, with friends like Blake and Miranda, how could marsala not catch on? Seeing far into the future, Mila Kunis selected a frothy tulle Monique Lhullier marsala dress back at the 2009 the Emmys. And look no further than Emma Stone's Lanvin gown from the 2012 Golden Globes for an exquisite example as to why marsala just plain works. And who could forget Kaley Cuoco-Sweeting's vino-inspired Vera Wang gown from the 2013 Emmys? The textured ball gown again put Pantone's favorite shade on the map, cementing it's spot as a red carpet shoo-in. Obviously, marsala isn't exactly new on the red carpet, but it's a longtime fan favorite that's made for some serious fashion moments. And for that reason, we're excited to see what else the hue can do in 2015. Read more at  long formal dresses
