Pantone 2021 Colors of the Year: Incorporating Ultimate Gray and Illuminating Yellow

Ultimate Gray and Illuminating YellowEagerly anticipated each year, the Pantone Color Institute has released the Pantone 2021 Color of the Year, which this year is actually… two colors! Pantone 2021 Colors of the Year, Ultimate Gray and Illuminating Yellow, team up for a combination that is sorely needed in 2021 – a unique duo that is practical and rock solid, yet optimistic at the same time.

This is only the second time that two shades have been chosen (the other was 2016 when Rose Quartz and Serenity Blue were selected). The surprise move by Pantone pairs soothing light gray with a bold, bright yellow… and if this combination feels familiar, that’s because it is! In the early 2010s it became so popular, that it never really went out of style.

According to Pantone experts, “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. Illuminating is a bright and cheerful yellow sparkling with vivacity, a warming yellow shade imbued with solar power. Ultimate Gray is emblematic of solid and dependable elements which are everlasting and provide a firm foundation. The colors 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.”

For over 20 years, Pantone’s Color of the Year has influenced product development and purchasing decisions in multiple industries, including fashion, home furnishings, and industrial design, as well as product packaging and graphic design.

The Pantone Color of the Year selection process requires thoughtful consideration and trend analysis. To arrive at the selection each year, Pantone’s color experts at Pantone Color Institute comb the world looking for new color influences. This can include the entertainment industry and films in production, traveling art collections and new artists, fashion, all areas of design, popular travel destinations, as well as new lifestyles, playstyles, and socio-economic conditions. Influences may also stem from new technologies, materials, textures, and effects that impact color, relevant social media platforms and even upcoming sporting events that capture worldwide attention.

Ready to add gray and yellow to your home? I’ve showcased some inspiration to get you started in every room of the house!

Pantone 2021 Colors of the Year: Ultimate Gray and Illuminating

Pantone 2021 Colors of the Year: Ultimate Gray and Illuminating

Pantone 2021 Colors of the Year: Ultimate Gray and Illuminating

Pantone 2021 Colors of the Year: Ultimate Gray and Illuminating

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2 Comments

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  1. 1
    megan allen

    I am in love!!!! These two colors together are my favorite! I think of happiness, sunshine and spring! I would give anything for my house to look like the pictures above! Thanks for sharing!!

  2. 2
    Rosie

    I have a touch of this yellow for decor, and a little goes a long way to spark up some brightness. I don’t use the gray, though. I was amazed to see this as color of the year, as I thought yellow was out of style, which may be so for wall color,

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