Pantone Nominates Not One, But Two, Colors of the Year.
Pantone recently announced its color of the year for 2016. Normally this is a single color that is reflective of home trends as well as runway trends. This color also goes deeper as a symbolic color selection, a color snapshot of what we see taking place in our culture that serves as an expression of a mood and an attitude.
For the first time ever, PANTONE has taken a softer, more blended approach and nominated two colors: Rose Quartz and Serenity are chosen as the PANTONE Color of the Year. Rose Quartz is a persuasive, yet gentle tone that conveys compassion and a sense of composure. Serenity is weightless and airy, like the expanse of the blue sky above us, bringing feelings of respite and relaxation even in turbulent times.
As consumers seek mindfulness and well-being as an antidote to modern-day stresses, welcoming colors that psychologically fulfill our yearning for reassurance and security are becoming more prominent. Joined 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.
The prevalent combination of Rose Quartz and Serenity also challenges traditional perceptions of color association. In many parts of the world, we are experiencing a gender blur as it relates to fashion, which has in turn impacted color trends throughout all other areas of design. This more unilateral approach to color coincides with societal movements toward gender equality and fluidity. Consumers who are increasingly comfortable with using color as a form of expression combine with a generation that has less concern about being typecast or judged. An open exchange of digital information has also opened our eyes to different approaches to color usage.
Whether in soft or hard surface material, the pairing of Rose Quartz and Serenity brings calm and relaxation and are appealing in all finishes: matte, metallic, and glossy. The engaging combo also joins easily with other mid-tones including greens and purples, rich browns, and all shades of yellow and pink. Add in silver or hot brights for more splash and sparkle.
