Spring 2012 Trends: Tangerine Tango

You know how multiple sources predicted the demise of Kim Kardashian’s marriage to whats-his-name?

Sure, I would have taken that bet.

Another sure thing? Spring 2012’s “it” colour – Tangerine. Far and wide declared the hottest hue for the upcoming season, vivid bursts of the fiery colour have been seen everywhere from the runway to home decor. In fact, Pantone named “Tangerine Tango” the 2012 Color of the Year.

“Sophisticated but at the same time dramatic and seductive, Tangerine Tango is an orange with a lot of depth to it,” said Leatrice Eiseman, executive director of the Pantone Color Institute. “Reminiscent of the radiant shadings of a sunset, Tangerine Tango marries the vivaciousness and adrenaline rush of red with the friendliness and warmth of yellow, to form a high-visibility, magnetic hue that emanates heat and energy.”

I love tangerine/orange shades and am thrilled that the colour is making a revival for Spring  – especially after the long, dreary winter months. Wondering how you can incorporate the lively hue into your lifestyle to stay on trend? I’ve spent the morning scouring the ‘net for some affordable, easily accessible ideas that will energize your wardrobe and perk up your living spaces. Now orange you glad you popped by?

H&M Blazer
Add a pop of colour to your daytime look with this short and sassy blazer from H&M. “Short, figure-fit jacket in stretch fabric with no lapels or fasteners, and 3/4-length sleeves with gathered seams. Pockets with a flap and a small ticket pocket. Lined.” ($59.95)

To make the most of the Spring trends, pair this blazer with a nautical striped tee and navy pants. Or, dress it down with a white tank top and jean skirt – very Hilary Duff a la Chateau Marmont. And if you’re feeling bold, you may wish to try colour blocking with a hot pink dress or red skinny jeans.

Sephora by OPI: Hi Def
Described as an opaque rich tangerine on Sephora.com – and the hottest on trend colour by makeup bloggers everywhere – this polish is sure to make a statement without breaking the bank. “Sephora by OPI Nail Colour puts the final touch on fingertips and toes with a top-quality formula you have come to expect from OPI. The long-lasting, chip-resistant polish ensures flawless results with each application, and its green ingredient list excludes DBP, toluene, and formaldehyde.” ($9.50)

I fondly recall the summer of 2002 when I wore a creamy orange nail polish on my toes for the entire summer. Could we be in line for a repeat 10 years later? We’ll see!

BCBG Side-Flutter Dress
Could there be a more perfect “first date” dress? LOVES IT! “Add a dose of flirty fun to your wardrobe with this flutter-embellished dress. Just add a cardigan and boots to combat cooler weather.” ($108.00)

I must admit I have an obsession with BCBG Max Azria. Perhaps it’s because he designs the most feminine frocks I’ve ever seen. Or maybe I’m just attracted to their amazing sales. Regardless, if there’s an occasion on the horizon, I am poking into BCBG for a couture dress. And now, with the emergence of BCBG Outlet stores, my life is complete. Sigh.

More info: Round neck. Sleeveless. Classic fit. Double-layer ruffle at side of bodice. Gathered waist. Side slit pockets. Measures approximately 32″ from shoulder to hem.Concealed center back zipper with hook-and-eye closure. Crepe de Chine: Polyester.

Rachael Ray Hard Enamel Cookware
Mmmmkay, you want to be funky and functional at the same time? Look no further than Rachael Ray’s hard enamel, nonstick, aluminum cookware that adds color and style to any kitchen.

“A long lasting nonstick interior allows food to slide off and cleanup quick and easy. The rubberized “grippy” handles are dual riveted, comfortable and oven safe to 350 degrees. Lidded pots come with tempered glass covers so you can keep an eye on your food while cooking.” (Price varies per unit; available at Bed Bath & Beyond.)

American Apparel Cotton Spandex Leggings
Think you can’t incorporate a trend while walking the dog? Wrong! Try on a pair of these fitted, tapered leggings that hit between calf and ankle. A great layer piece that adds a burst of colour under a long tee or mini skirt. ($32.00)

“They last long and they’re really stretchy [and] hug the waist nicely unlike others that slip down when you sit or bend. They’re the only leggings I wear on a regular basis.” – nitrolicious.com

More info: Cotton/Spandex Jersey (95% Cotton / 5% Elastane) construction. Approximately 26 3/4″ inseam (60.3cm). Elastic waistband. Form-fitting.

THE WALLPAPER COMPANY Modern Leaf Stripe Wallpaper
What better way to cover your walls and express your individuality (or in this case, your devotion to trends)? Wallpaper can transform a room quickly and easily. ($44.98, Available at The Home Depot.)

“A fresh large scale modern leaf stripe in grey and Papier Peint 20.5″ Nouvelle Tendance Orange, a new retro modern pattern. New innovative non-vinyl wallpaper that removes 100% in full strips without any special tools, chemicals or steamers. New material is easier to hang and helps eliminate any visible seam lines. Breathable paper-fiber material inhibits mold and mildew.”

Urban Outfitters Kimchi Suede Wedge
As I type this, I am also sending my husband an e-mail with the subject line “Birthday Present” – and including a link to this shoe. The ankle strap and antiqued buckle are just so me, and I have already put together four outfits that I could wear around this shoe. ($69.00)

“These pumps will look amazing with a hot dress and dazzling accessories. They have a suede/leather upper that wraps over a wedge platform.” More info: Wrapped wedge heel. Rubber sole. 5.25″ heel. 1.25″ platform.

Of course, when all else fails, you can just puchase a top with citrus fruit on it, as seen in this Simons pick below:

Beautiful large oranges printed in vibrant accents on an ultra comfy stretch jersey
– Low racerback and round neck
– Tone on tone ribbed trim
– Fitted and long

Just $12.00 peeps! I’ve already purchased this!

I hope I’ve inspired you to include Tangerine Tango – a bright, happy hue – into your spring wardrobe. And if you happen to come across a tangerine-coloured piece, do share! I’m always looking for style tips and ideas.

Will you be rocking tangerine this spring? Love it or lose it?