by Kathy Deutsch

Created on: January 07, 2009

With the theme of 2009 being "hope and change", there are definite changes in fashion's colors. The basic colors are back. Splurging on a new wardrobe is out. But with the addition of just one piece in the new, hot colors, an older outfit will look fresh. The colors of 2009 are different because they are clear representations of their pigment, without the addition of muddiness. These clear, jewel-like tones have not been seen for many years.

First, the basics. Primary colors of red, medium blue, and grass green are strong. So is orange, not too strong when paired with navy (a bright navy, not almost-black). Yellow is a solid lemon, used as an accent. Cream is the new neutral, as is gray with a brownish tone. White and black will always be around. But deep chocolate brown is holding its own in workwear and casual jackets.

The new colors are deep fuchsia, darker than a "hot pink" of the 1970's. Rich turquoise is big. Minty green is cooling for the hot summer, but spring 2009's green is yellower, grassy. Purple in all its shades and hues is appearing everywhere. From purses to shoes, this color will be around for a while. The purples range from deep royal violet to clear red-plum, to lavender and lilac.

The color tones are definitely deeper and less pastel. They seem almost transparent, not muddy with gray tones.

And how should the new colors be worn? Well, big purchases of new wardrobes is not being done. It is chic to wear vintage, even second-hand clothes as long as they work with an outfit. It makes sense to wear out what you already own. Try a jacketed outfit of mostly neutrals with just a color pop in a cheap tee shirt from a discount store. Jeans are being shown almost worn-out this year. Patched, faded, rolled and cinched at the waist. I would get a cheap scarf in a great new color (one I never dared to use before), and utilize it as a belt with my jeans. Add a white shirt from my closet and I have an outfit.

The idea is to try out one of 2009's hot colors by adding it to the mix you already own. Easy additions are a solid color tee shirt or knit top, a scarf, or bracelets and a necklace. Just a touch of, say, lemon yellow, will perk up a beige and black suit.

It is great to see the colors of 2009. The familiar solids of the crayon box: red, blue, green, orange, yellow. The deep, hot pastels of purple, fuchsia, turquoise, coral, grass green and lemon. Carefully working them in with clothing you already own will make your wardrobe fresh for the upcoming year.

Learn more about this author, Kathy Deutsch.
Click here to send this author comments or questions.