The "Chiefs" of Color

 
I’m sure some of you wonder, “Why is this specific color in this season yet out the next season.”
 
Overall, there are close to 2,000 shades of color designers have the ability to choose from. Out of that 2,000 (ten) are chosen for a specific season, which means your “average Joe” has a 0.5% chance of seeing his/her favorite color during season.
 
So, who decides what colors will become the goto colors of the year? Pantone has, quite intentionally, become the arbitrator of colors.
 
Pantone History
 
Founded in 1956 as a printing company. Pantone devised color guides via color swatch by using the CMYK system (Cyan, Magenta, Yellow, and Black). Pantone continues to influence printing, paint, color, and fabrics. Designers and Artists within the fashion/design industry continue to gather inspirational looks from Pantone's Goe System and color swatches.
 
Who decides…..
 
A selection committee of ten are invited by the Carlstadt, N.J.., company. The committee is kept in secret, and they meet in Europe twice a year (May and November). The group meets in a room with white walls, to make colors more apparent. These individuals comprise multiple industries ranging from automobiles, furniture, clothing, and knitwear.
 
Fall 2013 Colors for Women


Fall 2013 Colors for Men


According to the former creative director of Perry Ellis John Crocco he states [Color forecasts are a self-fulfilling prophecy. If designers choose to follow such forecasts, then they'll be part of what ultimately becomes the trend.]

More Info:
 
Short NPR report on Pantone and color selection process.


Full Pantone 2013 color report