For only the second time in the campaign’s more than 20-year history, PANTONE’s Colour of the Year 2021 will be two colours: PANTONE 17-5104 Ultimate Gray + PANTONE 13-0647 Illuminating. Here’s all you need to know about these two tones. Editor Hamish Kilburn explores…
The unveiling of PANTONE’s Colour of the Year means one thing: 2020 is nearly over! And with our editorial lens focusing into the future, we are intrigued about the decision behind the colour experts’ colour of choice for 2021.
PANTONE 17-5104 Ultimate Gray + PANTONE 13-0647 Illuminating are two independent colours that highlight how different elements come together to support one another, a lesson surely learned by all in 2020, which we can start to practice in 2021.
Practical and rock solid but at the same time warming and optimistic, the union of PANTONE 17-5104 Ultimate Gray + PANTONE 13-0647 Illuminating is “one of strength and positivity,” says PANTONE, at least. It is a story of colour that encapsulates deeper feelings of thoughtfulness with the promise of something sunny and friendly.
A message of happiness supported by fortitude, the combination of these specific colours is aspirational and gives us hope, which with the way hospitality is at the moment something we are in hot demand of.
As people look for ways to fortify themselves with energy, clarity, and hope to overcome the continuing uncertainty, spirited and emboldening shades satisfy our quest for vitality. PANTONE 13-0647 Illuminating is a bright and cheerful yellow sparkling with vivacity, a warming yellow shade imbued with solar power. PANTONE 17-5104 Ultimate Gray is emblematic of solid and dependable elements which are everlasting and provide a firm foundation. The colours of pebbles on the beach and natural elements whose weathered appearance highlights an ability to stand the test of time, Ultimate Gray quietly assures, encouraging feelings of composure, steadiness and resilience.
Personally, I’m just glad that Covid Blue didn’t make it through…
Main image credit: PANTONE
