Pantone’s Colour of the Year selection process requires thoughtful consideration and trend analysis. To arrive at the selection each year, Pantone’s colour experts, at the Pantone Colour Institute, combine the world looking for new colour influences. This can include inspiration from the entertainment industry, films in production, travelling, art collections and fashion as well as new lifestyles. Influences may also stem from new technologies, materials, textures and effects – that impact colour.
For 16 years, Pantone’s Colour of the Year has influenced product development and purchasing decisions in multiple industries – including fashion, home furnishings and industrial design, as well as product packaging and graphic design.
Each year Pantone reveals its symbolic colour selection, described as a colour snapshot of what Pantone expect to take place in our culture that serves as an expression of a mood and attitude.
This year’s Pantone Colour of The Year includes the use of two colours – Rose Quartz is a persuasive yet gentle tone that conveys compassion and a sense of composure. Whereas Serenity is weightless and airy, like the expanse of the blue sky above us, bringing feelings of respite and relaxation even in turbulent times. The prevalent combination of Rose Quartz and Serenity challenges traditional perceptions of colour association.
Together, Rose Quartz and Serenity demonstrate an inherent balance between a warmer embracing rose tone and the cooler tranquil blue, reflecting connection and wellness as well as a soothing sense of order and peace.
Whether in soft or hard surface material, the pairing of Rose Quartz and Serenity brings calm and relaxation. Appealing in all finishes the engaging combination joins easily with other mid-tones including greens, purples, rich browns, and shades of yellow and pink.
Consumers seek mindfulness and well-being as an antidote to modern-day stresses and welcome colours that psychologically fulfil our yearning for reassurance and security.
Whether on their own or combined with other shades, the pairing of Serenity and Rose Quartz inject a feeling of calm and relaxation into the home environment. Similar to a serene sunset Rose Quartz encourages reflection on your surroundings. While Serenity – a transcendent blue – provides a naturally connected sense of space.
An ideal choice for rugs and upholstery, Serenity and Rose Quartz also work well in paint and for decorative accessories. Coupling solid and patterned fabrics, throws, pillows and bedding in these shades provide a comforting respite and feeling of wellbeing in the home. Incorporating texture can enhance the duality and kinship of these hues.
Serenity and Rose Quartz coloured kitchen items and tableware – as well as home accessories such as candles, decorative bowls, vases and florals – add subtle colour accents while contributing to a welcoming and peaceful space.
The colours selected as this year’s Pantone Colour of the Year were taken from the Pantone fashion and home interiors colour system – the most widely used and recognised colour standards system for the textile and home and interior design industry. In August, Pantone released 210 new colours to the system. Pantone 15-3919 Serenity and Pantone 13-1520 Rose Quartz are included in this collection of 210 new shades.