Pantone names two colours of the year for 2016…

Pantone has revealed its colour of the year as two shades Serenity and Rose Quartz – the first time it has chosen to blend two colours together.

15-3919 Serenity and 13-1520 Rose Quartz, are “a harmonious pairing of inviting shades that embody a mind-set of tranquility and inner peace,” says Pantone.

They has been chosen in response to consumers seeking mindfulness and well-being as an antidote to the stresses of modern day life according to Pantone, which has plumbed for colours which “fulfill yearning for reassurance and security.”

The weightless and airy Rose Quartz is a persuasive, gentle tone that conveys passion and a sense of composure says Pantone, while Serenity has a comforting and calming effect.

Pantone Color Institute executive director Leatrice Eiseman says: “In many parts of the world we are experiencing a gender blur as it relates to fashion, which has in turn impacted colour trends throughout all other areas of design.

“This more multilateral approach to colour is coinciding with societal movements toward gender equality and fluidity. The consumers’ increased comfort with using colour as a form of expression includes a generation that has less concern about being typecast or judged, and an open exchange of digital information. This has opened our eyes to different approaches to colour usage.”

Application to graphic design

Pantone says consumers will be drawn to the combination of colours and that it will prove to be an “enticing shade” for packaging from food and beverage to cosmetics and accessories.

With packaging “increasingly tied to lifestyle colour trends” Serenity and Rose Quartz is “a natural fit for many kinds of packaging materials,” says Pantone.

Application to interiors

Used on their own or together the two shades will bring a feeling of calm and relaxation according to Pantone, which says Rose Quartz encourages reflection of one’s surroundings, while Serenity is transcendent and will provide a “naturally connected sense of space.”

It is suggested that rugs and upholstery as well as paint and decorative accessories will work well in the colours. Solid and patterned fabrics, throws, pillows and bedding can be matched to give a “feeling of wellbeing” in domestic environments. Introducing texture will help increase the bond between the two colours.

Coloured kitchen items and tableware, candles, decorative bowls, vases and floral displays could be used for colour accents to make a space feel peaceful while Pantone says “translucent, glazing, matte and metallic shine are key finishes.”

How do they choose the colours?

Pantone’s Color Institute conducts global trend analysis before coming to its decision. Influences include the entertainment industry, films and production, travelling art collections and new artists, fashion, all areas of design, popular travel destinations, new lifestyles, “playstyles” and socio-economic conditions.

Other considerations include new technologies, materials, textures and effects that impact colour, social media platforms and global sporting events.