Pantone 2021 Color of the Year: Ultimate Gray & Illuminating Yellow

2020 is behind us, but we’re all wading through the damage, which has created disarray everywhere including the fashion world. Pantone surprised us all when the color of the year was announced and instead of one color— we got two! This is only the 2nd time in its 20 year history of choosing 2 colors. Let’s dissect the 2021 Pantone color selections and really dial into the details that make these colors so special. 

About The Colors

Pantone describes the two colors as being symbols of strength and hopefulness. Ultimate Gray is a steady and dependable color, while Illuminating yellow is warm and welcoming. 2021 calls for some stability throughout hard times and a bit of optimism and positivity. Illuminating is inspirational and full of hope, while ultimate gray is constant and familiar— A much-needed color pairing after a devastating year full of loss and separation from loved ones. Pantone’s vice president explained that during the research period to determine the upcoming color of the year, it became evident that 2020 showed everyone how much they need one another. The colors of the year are a true representation of that model. 

The Inspiration

Everyone has been living in loungewear–especially in gray. It’s a color that pairs easily with others and is familiar.  Psychologically, the color gray brings a bit of comfort and a sense that some things are constant, while yellow brings the rays of sunshine to the surface, so if your outfits seem a little drab, this optimistic yellow hue is meant to add some joy and brightness. The color combo of yellow and gray is often seen when the sunshine peeks through the clouds in the sky and was first spotted together in home interiors last year, which suggested that sociologically the fashion world would adopt it soon after. Ultimate Gray is a standout color among designers like Thom Brown and Balmain, while hints of Illuminating have been seen as accessories on runways like Etro and Jil Sanders.

Your Turn

Adding this year’s dynamic duo to your wardrobe is easy. Imagine a wool knit sweater in gray  accompanied with wide-legged trousers in a yellow tencel twill for a very wearable and wintery outfit. Looking to dip your toe into such a bold color? Get creative using elastic trim in yellow to the hemline or waistline of tops and dresses to adopt the sunshine in smaller doses.

Now it’s your turn— Tell us what your vision is for this dynamic color combo in a comment below!