Ah, fall. The season where everything smells like cinnamon, cozy sweaters make a comeback, and Instagram is filled with pictures of perfectly placed pumpkins. And of course, no autumn would be complete without the internet’s favorite seasonal drink—the pumpkin spice latte (PSL for the die-hard fans). But what if I told you that your love for fall drinks and fall design trends could finally meet in the most aesthetically pleasing way? Yes, folks, I’m talking about fall color palettes that will have you craving a latte faster than you can say “sweater weather.”
The PSL Palette: Pantone’s Pumpkin Obsession
Let’s be honest—if Pantone had a favorite child, it would be named something like “Burnt Sienna” or “Cinnamon Spice.” Every year, Pantone releases its fall color forecast, and surprise, surprise—warm oranges, deep browns, and spicy reds dominate the lineup like it’s a Thanksgiving dinner table. Coincidence? I think not.
Pantone’s relationship with fall colors is like Starbucks’ relationship with pumpkin spice: obsessive. It’s almost as if they asked themselves, “What color would a PSL be if it were a swatch?” And bam—Pantone 7599 pops into existence, a hue so cozy you can practically smell the nutmeg. It’s basically the color equivalent of wrapping yourself in a chunky knit scarf and pretending you actually enjoy raking leaves.
Cinnamon Swirl and Hazelnut Hues
Next up, we’ve got the cinnamon swirl of the color world: Pantone’s Spice Route (18-1345). This rich, burnt orange is the kind of shade that would make even a pile of autumn leaves jealous. It’s perfect for fall weddings, living room accents, or just staring at while sipping your latte and contemplating life’s mysteries (like why pumpkin spice has no actual pumpkin in it).
But don’t stop there—let’s sprinkle in some hazelnut vibes with Pantone’s Hazelnut (14-1315). It’s the neutral that makes every other color look good, much like how whipped cream elevates even the most basic PSL. It’s creamy, it’s dreamy, and it’s a perfect base for any autumn color palette that needs a bit of grounding amidst all the spicy, warm tones. Basically, it’s the oat milk of colors—smooth, versatile, and trendy.
Mocha Madness: Chocolate Shades for the Win
As we ride this caffeinated wave of fall inspiration, we can’t ignore the deep, luscious mocha tones making waves in autumn design. Enter Pantone’s Chocolate Fondue (19-0915), a shade so rich you might just want to drizzle it over everything. It’s bold, decadent, and pairs beautifully with your neutrals and gold accents, just like how that extra shot of espresso pairs with your morning mood. Chocolate hues are making a comeback this fall, adding a layer of sophistication and warmth to designs that scream “cozy chic.”
Pro tip: Try using mocha tones for accent walls, throw pillows, or even in graphic designs that need a touch of autumnal warmth. Just resist the urge to start snacking on your color swatches.
The Latte Layer: Soft Beige and Creams
No latte—pumpkin spice or otherwise—is complete without its signature foamy top. So naturally, your fall color palette needs some soft beige and cream tones to lighten things up. Pantone’s Vanilla Custard (12-0815) is the perfect, creamy shade to add balance to the bolder, spicier tones. It’s like the foam on top of your PSL—soft, light, and makes everything feel just a little bit more luxurious.
If you’re thinking of adding a touch of elegance to your autumn décor or design projects, vanilla and beige tones are your go-to. Pair these with burnt orange or cinnamon shades for a look that’s equal parts crisp and comforting.
A Dash of Nutmeg: Earthy Browns and Golds
To round out your fall color palette, we can’t forget the unsung hero of the spice cabinet—nutmeg. Pantone’s Caramel Café (18-1140) is like the spice equivalent of that friend who’s low-key amazing at everything but never brags about it. It’s deep, earthy, and adds a layer of sophistication to any design. Throw in a hint of golden warmth, like Pantone’s Gold Flame (16-0953), and you’ve got a palette that feels like a sunset over a pumpkin patch. Pure autumn magic.
Final Sip: Pantone’s Undeniable Fall Obsession
Let’s face it: Pantone and pumpkin spice lattes are the ultimate fall power couple. With their warm, spicy tones and rich hues, they capture the essence of everything we love about autumn. From earthy browns and moody mochas to creamy beiges and cinnamon-spiced oranges, this season’s palettes are practically begging you to take a break, sip your latte, and get lost in the magic of fall design.
So, next time you find yourself in line for a PSL, take a moment to appreciate how much that warm, cozy drink has in common with your latest autumn-inspired project. After all, both are designed to give you all the fall feels, one sip—or swatch—at a time.
Now, excuse me while I grab my scarf and head to the nearest coffee shop. Pantone 7599 is calling
