How to make marsala work for you

When Pantone announced marsala as its Colour of the Year for 2015, we immediately fell in love. Earthy, robust and rich, it’s a wonderfully bold colour for both homewares and fashion – plus we’re a fan of anything associated with wine! It’s a big move away from the bright hues of previous Colour of the Year titleholders, such as radiant orchid, tangerine tango and emerald. Instead it’s a more grown-up, grounding choice that works equally well in large swatches or small details. It is also a gorgeous colour for autumn as it perfectly complements the season’s classic tones, from golden browns and oranges to soft greens and corals. Or for a touch of contrast to really make it pop, pair marsala with teals, muted aquas and marine blues.

Here are a few tips on how to bring a little marsala into your life:

At home

Marsala can be both masculine and feminine (often at the same time), so it’s fantastically versatile for the home. It’s calming enough for your walls, adding warmth to a space. However, if you’re not quite brave enough to paint your room in this darker tone, try using it for curtains or an upholstered chair instead to achieve this cosy atmosphere.
The plush characteristics of marsala make it perfect for textured fabrics. A velvet cushion or woven throw would make a luxurious addition to a cream sofa.
With its red wine colour, marsala has a natural relationship with dining. Add some dyed linen napkins to your next dinner table setting for a sophisticated look.

In fashion

This colour suits most skin tones (hooray!) so it’s ideal for cosmetics. We love it as a statement lip colour (fabulous in both matt and gloss), or a more subtle, yet equally stunning nail polish.
Small accent pieces, such as earrings or a clutch, will add drama to an otherwise neutral outfit.
For men, a wine-coloured silk tie or pocket square with a grey suit projects a stylish, confident image.

Get the look

Herve Gambs silk rose diffuser, $144.50
Promise nail polish, $24.95
Suede fold-over clutch, $129
Areaware mini French bulldog cushion, $69.95
Hamsa print in marsala, $49.99
Leather zip coin purse, $69.95
Circle wool, velvet & linen cushion cover, $120
Swarovski pearl earrings, $35

At htf HQ, we’re declaring March “Design Month”! All this month we’re exploring the hottest trends and up-and-coming finds for 2015, as well as classic looks that never go out of style. Check out all our design month posts here.