Each season, the Pantone Color Institute surveys top designers from all over the globe in an effort to discover ten colors that it predicts will be the most influential in design. With shades as disparate as Bright Chartreuse (my favorite), French Roast, Honey Gold and Rose Smoke in the mix, it seems the fall shopper has a great opportunity to flex her (or his) eclectic styling talents, as the top hues are anything but typical.

Alas, I was never meant to be a famous designer because my beloved chartreuse played second fiddle this season to the top TOP color of the year–Pantone’s official top color for 2012–Tangerine Tango.

This nifty, uplifting hue really is the perfect combination of red and orange. Prepare yourself to see it everywhere–from Bill Blass’ fall collection to faux lashes sold at Sephora. Here are some examples from the runway, followed by some of my favorite off-runway tangerine pieces.

Just a hint of orange at Marni:

Zac Posen:

Tommy Hilfiger:

Tracy Reese:

Let’s start shopping now.

modcloth.com Aw Shucks Top, $69.99

Modcloth.com Flat Hunting Belt, $13.99

H&M pants, $24.95

Tangerine can definitely have a retro feel: Donna Morgan Tab-Sleeve Shift Dress, $81.75

Paired with a neutral grey: Bluefly Tahari ASL, $89

Grunge shape, rave color. All 90s. Urban Outfitters Staring at Stars Buchanan Drop-Waist Dress, $59

Asos Check Knit Sweater, $59.61

Asos mixes two fall trends: tangerine and military, $51.09

I love a voluminous sleeve, don’t you? Zara, $19.99

Zara Leather Moccasin, $15.99