If you haven’t already heard the buzz, for the first time in the seventeen-year history of
Pantone’s Color of the Year declarations, the historic New Jersey company has chosen not one, but TWO colors to reflect the projected trends and culture of 2016. In early December, Pantone announced Rose Quartz (Pantone 13-1520) and Serenity (Pantone 15-3919) as its Colors of the Year. Their combination, says Leatrice Eiseman (Executive Director of the Pantone Color Institute), “demonstrate[s] an inherent balance between a warmer embracing rose tone and the cooler tranquil blue.”
The company notes that consumers are seeking respite from stress, and are drawn to colors that reflect equanimity and comfort. In addition, Pantone sees the blending of the colors as a reflection of blurring gender expression in fashion world, and a nod to ongoing “societal movements towards gender equality.” The pastel shades are a surprising change from a long tradition of choosing bolder, more vibrant colors, but softer hues are already being seen this year on runways and in home décor.
As this trend towards shades that are more peaceful and balanced continues, look for Rose Quartz and Serenity to be at the forefront of corporate apparel trends. Consider them for electronics and drinkware, as well. Pantone’s suggested combinations with these colors include browns, purples and greens. The subtlety of these shades creates a great opportunity for your customers to print their complementary-colored logo onto a product in one of these colors, allowing them to remain on-trend while still being branded.