Radiant Orchid

Last year was the first year I keyed into the whole “Pantone Color of the Year” topic. Somehow I found out that 2013’s color was emerald, and got way into it. And by “way into it”, I really mean that my closet was already full of emerald (deep greens are my favorite to wear), so you can bet I gave myself a nice little pat on the back and congratulated myself for being so with-it.

I suppose I’m just lucky, because when I read that Pantone’s 2014 color of the year was “radiant orchid”, I was thrilled! My second favorite color to wear is the magenta/pinky/plum/purpleish/wine color that Pantone brilliantly decided to put a name to. (And thank goodness they did, I was quite obviously struggling with what to call it prior to 2014.)

a lonestar state of southernThe rich vibrancy of the color looks fabulous on every skin tone (including pale-ies like me!), and makes a statement without sacrificing elegance.

a lonestar state of southernI purchased this Jay Godfrey dress a year ago, and unlike most cocktail dresses I own, have gotten so much wear out of it. I suspect it’s from the immaculate combination of material (a rich animal print satin), structure (waisted with a fun skirt), and you guessed it, color!

And check out that fun back…

a lonestar state of southernI found these black strappies at Forever 21, which turned out to be a perfect low-key yet stylish addition.

a lonestar state of southernAs for earrings… you can never go wrong with a little sparkle, right?

a lonestar state of southernIn my opinion, radiant orchid is the perfect color for 2014. Bright, optimistic, fun and energetic… everything I want my year to be! Even though this dress is no longer available, I’ve thrown together a few of my favorites so you can incorporate this fun color into every area of your life!

Love from Texas,

Kate

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10 Comments

  1. Alyssa said:

    Kate, this look is to DIE for! Seriously, you look absolutely gorgeous! I miss you!!! xoxoxo

    love, A

    Published 1.13.14 · Reply
  2. Emily said:

    Obsessed with this dress, color, shoes, bag, etc… You look STUNNING!!!!

    xoxo

    Emily
    http://www.bowsanddepos.com

    Published 1.13.14 · Reply
  3. Ashleigh said:

    Gorgeous! I have a post drafted up for tomorrow about this color! I wasn’t sure when I first saw that it was color of the year, but it’s grown on me. I love the darker shades like you have here!

    xo, Ashleigh @ Fashion in Flight

    Published 1.14.14 · Reply
  4. Ashley said:

    I confess – I never knew there was a “Color of the Year”! It looks lovely on you!

    I love reading your posts. They’re full of personality, humor, and thoughtful pictures! Keep it up, girl!

    ~Ashley

    Published 1.20.14 · Reply
  5. Dana said:

    such a cute dress! loving the whole outfit.

    http://www.thecasualclassic.com

    Published 1.27.14 · Reply
  6. Meggie said:

    I absolutely LOVE this dress!! The color looks amazing on you Kate :) Your Chanel bag is gorgeous as well!

    Meggie
    meggiejuly.blogspot.com

    Published 1.27.14 · Reply
  7. newland said:

    So beautiful survival race

    Published 2.9.26 · Reply
  8. It’s fascinating how Pantone’s Color of the Year can influence personal style! The transition from emerald to radiant orchid showcases the beauty of color in fashion.

    Published 5.21.26 · Reply