2021 Pantone Color(s) of the Year

Illuminating and Ultimate Gray

I think we were all very happy to turn the page on 2020. It was a year like no other and the celebration of its end was wrapped up in a lot of emotion and, let’s be honest, pure exhaustion. I don’t know about you, but I was ready to look forward to the future and all it had to offer; but I wasn’t ready to forget the strength and ingenuity we had built as we worked through the difficulties of 2020.

The Pantone Color of the year has always been a creative way of interpreting what’s to come. The designers that choose the color attempt to forecast the year ahead and set its tone. Typically the Pantone Color of the year is a single color. But with all that we’ve been through, the Pantone powers that be decided to break tradition and give us two colors: PANTONE 17-5104 Ultimate Gray and PANTONE 13-0647 Illuminating (click here to learn more about the origins of the Pantone color creation). We think the color choices strike the perfect balance for what we hope 2021 will bring.

Ultimate Gray conveys feelings of strength and stability. It has a cool confidence invoking ideas of rock solid fortitude. An emotion we hopefully will all enter 2021 with despite the continued uncertainty. Ultimate Gray reminds us that we have sustained great difficulties and gained wisdom as a result. It is a supportive color of practicality.

Joie Grey Cardigan sz 4 $100

Gucci Grey Dress sz 2 $685

Akris Punto Grey Sweater sz 12 $287

Illuminating is a warm and adventurous color. It inspires creativity and hopefulness. Its bright and inviting tone reminds us that light is really the only thing that can chase away darkness. Illuminating invokes feelings of optimism and courage. With all that 2020 threw at us, this Pantone Color quenches our need for positivity.

ALC Yellow Top Sz 2 $90
Edward Achour Yellow Blazer sz 4 $290
Seven Yellow Jeans sz 4 $45

The marriage of these two colors imparts a sense of stability and hopefulness. Ultimate Gray represents rocks and pebbles in nature; items that have endured the test of time, and Illuminating represents the sun’s vitality and energy source. As we incorporate these two colors into our everyday lives, we will be reminded that we have both the strength and the creativity to endure all that lies ahead.

Good Riddance 2020!!!! Hello 2021!!!!