After a year marked by unforeseen challenges, Pantone surprised everyone by bestowing the honor of Color of the Year 2021 not to one, but two colors: Ultimate Gray (PANTONE 17-5104) and Illuminating (PANTONE 13-0647). This pairing isn’t just about visual appeal; it’s symbolic of our collective journey.
A Reflection on 2021’s Vibes
Reflecting upon 2020’s obstacles, and the rising optimism for the year ahead, Pantone’s choice of Ultimate Gray and Illuminating echoes our shared experiences and aspirations.
Why this Unique Color Combo?
Global happenings, from the pandemic to socio-political movements, marked 2020 with its moments of despair and resilience. With Ultimate Gray and Illuminating, Pantone aims to strike a chord of “strength and hopefulness” – something we’re all yearning for.
Ultimate Gray: The Rock Solid Base
Representing the solid foundation and resilience, Ultimate Gray reminds us of the unyielding spirit of human beings, enduring hardships and emerging stronger.
Illuminating: The Bright Future Ahead
With its bright and vivacious hue, Illuminating signals positivity, warmth, and the hope of brighter days to come.
Power and Message of the Dual Shades
Individually, these colors are potent, but together, they signify unity, mutual support, and societal consciousness. This is not the first time Pantone has chosen a duo. In 2016, the selection of Rose Quartz and Serenity highlighted the evolving dialogues around gender fluidity.
Pantone’s Past Duo: A Retrospect
Breaking traditional norms of color associations, the 2016’s pair emphasized society’s changing perspectives, particularly in the fashion realm.
Global Cultural Resonance
Colors aren’t just about aesthetics; they mirror global shifts and sentiments. As Laurie Pressman of the Pantone Color Institute puts it, colors serve as a medium of communication, echoing people’s needs and emotions.
Classic Blue in 2020: A Misfire?
In hindsight, Classic Blue, representing tranquility and connection for 2020, might seem a tad off-mark, given the year’s events. But who could have anticipated 2020’s whirlwind?
Leveraging 2021’s Colors in Business
Annually, industries keenly await Pantone’s selection, guiding branding, product design, and marketing strategies.
Strategic Brand Campaigns
The dynamic combo of Ultimate Gray and Illuminating ensures striking visuals. Be it billboards, web banners, or social media, these colors are bound to capture attention.
Innovative Product Packaging
If you’re considering a fresh vibe for your products this year, this duo offers a contemporary yet profound appeal.
Incorporating the Pantone Color of the Year into any business isn’t just about trends; it’s about embracing the message of resilience and hope they stand for.
Incorporating Pantone’s Colors of the Year into sticker printing designs can be an effective strategy for companies. Here’s why:
1. Relevance and Timeliness: Every year, Pantone’s selected colors garner significant media and industry attention. By integrating these hues, companies can ride this wave of public interest and ensure their sticker designs feel fresh and contemporary.
2. Universal Appeal: The research behind Pantone’s selections is extensive, focusing on global cultural and societal movements. This makes the colors universally appealing, increasing the likelihood that the stickers resonate with a broad audience.
3. Emotional Resonance: Colors aren’t just visual elements; they evoke emotions. Ultimate Gray and Illuminating, for instance, exude feelings of resilience, hope, and optimism. Stickers with these colors can help brands connect emotionally with their customers.
4. Flexibility in Design: Stickers are versatile promotional tools. Whether they’re used on product packaging, as giveaways, or for branding campaigns, the vibrant combination of Ultimate Gray and Illuminating can make them stand out.
5. Enhancing Brand Perception: Using trending colors can reflect positively on a brand, suggesting that it is up-to-date, aware of global sentiments, and responsive to change.
Conclusion
Pantone’s selection of Ultimate Gray and Illuminating is a reflection of our global mood, blending the trials of the past with optimism for the future. Embracing these hues is a nod to human endurance and the brighter days we all anticipate.
FAQs
- Why did Pantone choose two colors for 2021?
- To convey a message of hope and resilience after a challenging year.
- What does Ultimate Gray signify?
- It symbolizes the strength and foundation required to overcome obstacles.
- Why is Illuminating a relevant choice for 2021?
- It radiates optimism, brightness, and positivity for the future.
- Has Pantone chosen two colors in previous years?
- Yes, in 2016, Pantone selected Rose Quartz and Serenity to reflect evolving views on gender fluidity.
- How can businesses leverage these colors?
- Through strategic branding, designing standout business cards, and innovative product packaging, to name a few ways.