The color gods (aka Pantone) announced this week that 2012’s color of the year is “tangerine tango,” a vibrant shade of orange. Taking the reigns from 2011’s hue, honeysuckle, tangerine tango is like a close cousin, keeping things bright and warm.

Orange is not for everyone, but as I looked back on some of the spring/summer 2012 runway shows from New York Fashion Week, I saw so many great looks that incorporated the sunny shade.

Designers like Nicole Miller, General Idea and Rag & Bone mixed the tangerine hue with blues and greens through color blocking and stripes. These preppy and sporty looks make the intimidating color seem more wearable. Meanwhile, Venexiana and Derek Lam proved that orange can be worn head to toe, creating a sophisticated gown and a belted maxi dress respectively. Giving bottoms a touch of the tango, Badgley Mischka designed contemporary high-wasited shorts, while Bibnu Mohapatra produced high-waisted pleated pants with an Arabian feel. Eva Minge added a splash of tangerine with an oversized bag.

Along with the announcement, Panton also declared a collaboration with Sephora on a first-ever, limited-edition color of the year beauty collection. The line will include eye shadow, lipstick, lip gloss, nail polish and accessories and is scheduled to be available in Sephora stores in March.

Orange ya excited?

*Images courtesy of Getty