As we wind down 2023, I’m looking ahead to the trends of 2024, and with every year, I like to take a deep dive into the Pantone Color of the Year. To pick the color that will set the tone for the year ahead, Pantone considers emerging trends across a range of industries. Experts comb the entertainment industry and films in production, new artists, fashion, all areas of design, aspirational travel destinations, new lifestyles, socio-economic conditions, and other influences. Then often, Pantone will plan collaborations with companies such as Spoonflower, Ruggable, and Motorola to design products in the forecasted shade. For 2024, that shade is “Peach Fuzz”.
Depending on your color perception, Peach Fuzz is either a nice shade of mellow orange or a salmon-esque, almost neutral pink. Pantone describes the orange-pink hue as gentle, warm, and cozy. To me, it doesn’t feel very pink; there’s a distinct yellow undertone that sets it apart from the Millennial Pinks that have been on trend in recent years. It definitely has a feminine aesthetic, suited to fuzzy sweaters and slip dresses, but it could easily be gender-neutral in khaki shorts and sneakers.
It is a far cry from last year’s “Viva Magenta.” In fact, it’s as if the color industry has turned a 180, going from vibrant energy to serene velvet. It’s a good color for spring, though I wouldn’t call it groundbreaking.
When I think of peach, not the best things come to mind. First, I have memories of an ugly bridesmaid dress, and second, I have old-timey underwear; think of the girdles and lace slips from the mid-century. However, I can see how certain peaches can be flattering and fashionable. The best aspect of this color is its availability and accessibility. Peach is far from new; it’s been around for centuries in clothing, design, and beauty. You may already have it in your closet or your home décor. And you don’t necessarily have to buy new peach; vintage or second-hand peach may be right at your fingertips.
In all honesty, I can’t really get on board for myself wearing peach; I’m too pale. However, I can see this warm and fuzzy shade really popping in a dress or t-shirt for darker and olive skin tones. If you, like me, are just not suited to sporting 2024’s color of the year, you can still participate in the peach fuzz trend via homewares, beauty, or food.
This spring, it might be time for a linen refresh. I’m thinking of updating our set of guest towels; why not peach? Garnet Hill’s Signature Egyptian Cotton Towels come in light peach, a shade currently on sale. I may go even peachier with updating the mats in peach as well for the second bathroom.
There are also novelty items, like stickers, magnets, and coffee mugs with the Pantone logo and a peach fuzz gradient rainbow that can spruce up your home or workplace. For office settings, if it’s appropriate, maybe indulge in a new desk set. Amazon has some cute peach-adjacent options, like a letter tray organizer with file holders in rose gold. Or a staple set, tape holder, and pens also in rose gold.
Of course, there are always peachy beauty products to explore, like L’Oreal Paris Colour Riche Satin Lipstick that comes in peach fuzz and a variety of other tones if something more rich is better suited to your complexion. And, while it may not be top of mind, one of the easiest and non-committable ways of experimenting with this year’s color is through food. Since it’s in the name “peach” this winter, why not bust out your favorite peach cobbler recipes? Come the warmer weather and play around with peach flavors in cocktails, smoothies, and mocktails.
So, while you may not be as excited about “Peach Fuzz” as the coming year’s official color for fashion, art, and design, hopefully, you agree that peaches make a great pie.
