I have been following PANTONE’s Color Of The Year since my days in college (I know…I’m so cool) and I look forward to seeing what the industry reveals as the upcoming color trend. Some years, I am in love with their choice and other times I think they totally missed the mark. This year, PANTONE announced their new Color Of The Year for 2016 and for the first time TWO colors have been chosen.
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[header animation=””]2016 | Rose Quartz and Serenity[/header]
The ombre (a glorified gradient) trend has slowly become more popular over the past year and I definitely see why these colors were chosen to represent 2016. Although I am not a fan of gradients, I do feel like these two shades used alongside or apart are on point. PANTONE wanted to bring “a soothing sense of order and peace”, and I agree these colors bring just that.
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Last year’s color of the year was the total opposite. Earthy elegant colors were all the rage and it was really a color to appeal to a broader audience. Its rich tone also gave a sense of sophistication.
[header animation=””]2015 | Marsala [/header]
I do have to admit I did not use this color last year. Even though I do think this color is fitting, I found people gravitated towards other neutrals. Deep blues and greys along with light tints of grey were most popular. Did PANTONE get it wrong, or did the masses just not want to go along with this trend? I think it may have been a little of both.
I’m sure some of you are wondering why is this important?! Well, as a designer, I know color selection is one of the most important accepts of the design process. Each color, shade, and hue has meaning and influence on how people view/process what they are looking at. There is a whole science behind it called Color Theory. I won’t bore you with a lengthy explanation, but I will say colors are powerful!
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Here is the video from PANTONE that emphasizes the meaning behind this year’s colors and why they were chosen.
To me, the beginning images are pretty powerful and may resonate with how you felt about 2015. I guess only time will tell if these new colors will start to make their mark or be forgotten. Either way, I can’t wait to incorporate Rose Quartz and Serenity into an upcoming project; I’m thinking of creating a new watercolor invitation suite and these colors will be perfect!
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I am curious what your thoughts are on the new chosen color(s). Let me know if you think PANTONE got it right or should try harder next year!
<3 Heather