The Pantone Color Institute announced its top colors for Fall/Winter 2020 in February, and, one month later, a pandemic abruptly upended everything about life as we knew it — down to even the most minor aspects, like how we dress. For the first several months of lockdown, all I wore were somber colors (black, navy, and gray) that matched my mood amidst all the uncertainty. But once temperatures warmed up and the curve began to flatten in NYC, my wardrobe did a complete 180 (lime green, candy apple red, soft lilac, and buttery marigold yellow). Now, rounding the corner into fall neither dark neutrals nor cheery brights feel quite right for the unusual seasons ahead. This brings us back to Pantone’s color report, and one subtle yet sumptuous color that stood out among the rest: Almond Oil.
Conceived to highlight a “desire for versatile, timeless color” along with a “less is more mindset,” Pantone’s Fall/Winter 2020 palette is full of louder hues (radiant orange, acidic yellow-green, and rich scarlet) that would have ordinarily dominated the trend scene. But instead, it was the unassumingly beautiful off-white hue called “Almond Oil,” that caught us by surprise. A palate cleanser of sorts, this creamy shade feels like safety with a touch of optimism. Think almond-milk-colored clouds in clothing form: off-white soft knits, French terry sweats, and chunky sweaters perfect for cocooning yourself in at home. And when combined with crisp lines or delicate fabrics? Almond Oil radiates sophistication, too.
Scroll ahead to see our top style picks for the color that’s about to be everywhere this fall.
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Bec and Bridge Eden Rib Midi Skirt, $, available at Verishop
The Grace Made Beloved Dress, $, available at The Grace Made
Free People So Low So High Cashmere Sweater, $, available at Free People
Lunya Restore Long Sleeve Tee, $, available at Lunya
Lunya Restore Bike Short, $, available at Lunya
Mango Zip neck jumper, $, available at Mango
BDG Georgia Corduroy Jacket, $, available at Urban Outfitters
Vince Cozy Drawstring Jogger, $, available at Verishop
Vince Cozy Half Zip Pullover, $, available at Verishop
Par en Par The Playa Robe in Natural, $, available at Par en Par
Hope For Flowers by Tracy Reese Parchment Puff Sleeve Jacket, $, available at Hope For Flowers
Jae Lenee Silk Organza Ruffle Dress in Tapioca, $, available at Jae Lenee
Mott & Bow The French Terry Sweatshirt, $, available at Mott & Bow
Thakoon Denim Midi Skirt, $, available at Thakoon
Jenni Kayne Cotton Fisherman Sweater, $, available at Jenni Kayne
Yan Yan Holey Shrunken Cardigan in Ivory Cotton Cashmere, $, available at Yan Yan
& Other Stories Denim Workwear Jumpsuit, $, available at & Other Stories
Eloquii Wide Leg Cargo Pant, $, available at Eloquii
The Entireworld Loop Back Sweatshirt, $, available at The Entireworld
The Entireworld Loop Back Sweatpants, $, available at The Entireworld
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