Pantone’s Most Soothing Color Trend For Fall 2020

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.

We’re here to help you navigate this overwhelming world of stuff. All of our market picks are independently selected and curated by the editorial team. 

Bec and Bridge Eden Rib Midi Skirt, $, available at Verishop

Only Curve poplin mini smock dress with puff sleeves in beige, $, available at ASOS

Free People So Low So High Cashmere Sweater, $, available at Free People

The Grace Made Beloved Dress, $, available at The Grace Made

Caracilia Open Front Knit Cardigan with Pockets, $, available at Amazon

& Other Stories Smocked Mini Shirt Dress, $, available at & Other Stories

BDG Georgia Corduroy Jacket, $, available at Urban Outfitters

Modern Kiwi Plus Size Long Sleeve Flowy Maxi Dress, $, available at Amazon

Lunya Restore Long Sleeve Tee, $, available at Lunya

Lunya Restore Bike Short, $, available at Lunya

Mango Zip neck jumper, $, available at Mango

Elizabeth and James Plus Size Open Ribbed Long Cardigan, $, available at Kohl's

Vince Cozy Drawstring Jogger, $, available at Verishop

Daily Ritual Terry Cotton & Modal Hoodie, $, available at Amazon

Eloquii Wide Leg Cargo Pant, $, available at Eloquii

Madewell Striped Gauze Drop-Shoulder Popover Top, $, available at Madewell

Nike Plus crop retro terry towelling crop sweatshirt in beig, $, available at ASOS

Par en Par The Playa Robe in Natural, $, available at Par en Par

Uniqlo WOMEN CASHMERE CREW NECK SWEATER, $, available at Uniqlo

Thakoon Denim Midi Skirt, $, available at Thakoon

Madewell Linen-Blend Puff-Sleeve Tassel-Tie Jumpsuit, $, available at Madewell

Vince Cozy Half Zip Pullover, $, available at Verishop

H&M Puff-sleeved Dress, $, available at H&M

Hope For Flowers by Tracy Reese Parchment Puff Sleeve Jacket, $, available at Hope For Flowers

Liny Xin Oversized Loose Knitted Crew Neck Sweater, $, available at Amazon

from refinery29