Design enthusiasts gather around because at long last Pantone's Color of the Year 2021 has been revealed! On December 9, Pantone broke the long waited news, and this year, not one but two shades claimed the coveted honor. The company has officially selected Ultimate Gray (PANTONE 17-5104) and Illuminating (PANTONE 13-0647) as the shades for Pantone's Color of the Year 2021.
The gray and yellow hues are two independent colors that each stand-alone beautifully and when paired, conjure an image of optimism and strength, evoking a mood that's both uplifting and energizing, while feeling grounded and subdued. The last time the company had selected two shades was back in 2016 when Rose Quartz (PANTONE 13-1520) and Serenity (PANTONE 15-3919) were chosen. Ultimate Gray and Illuminating follow 2020's Classic Blue and 2019's Living Coral.
“The selection of two independent colors highlight how different elements come together to express a message of strength and hopefulness that is both enduring and uplifting, conveying the idea that it’s not about one color or one person, it’s about more than one. The union of an enduring Ultimate Gray with the vibrant yellow Illuminating expresses a message of positivity supported by fortitude,” said Leatrice Eiseman, executive director of the Pantone Color Institute. “Practical and rock-solid but at the same time warming and optimistic, this is a color combination that gives us resilience and hope. We need to feel encouraged and uplifted, this is essential to the human spirit.”
Since we have, you know, a hunch that you are about to see these two colors everywhere, we've selected the best products to flaunt them proudly!
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Stila's Glitter and Glow in Diamond Dust must be a cult favorite by now, and it's time to bring it back.
Rep Illuminating from head to toe, starting this bucket hat, which has a sleek, vinyl-like finish.
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If you ever needed permission to mix metals in your jewelry, you may not get it from your Grandma, but you'll get it from us.
The Starlit studio cream eyeshadows are beautifully pigmented!
Tie-Dye isn't going anywhere. Get this embroidered six-panel cotton baseball hat — an Ultimate Gray cherry on top.
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This ultra-pigmented dual-sided eyeshadow also works perfectly as an eyeliner.
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Stay ahead of the curve and get yourself this pair of Chuck's with both Colors of the Year before anyone else.
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Gray screams structure! And we're leaning in.
You'll be far from cold this winter with this sunny yellow alpaca wool-blend scarf.
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These adorable bee button embellishments make this a need.
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If Illuminating is Intimidating, a sheer wash of color, like Glossier's Skywash, is an easy place to start.
The Outdoor Voices warmup legging is a fave, and this year is no exception.
Loungewear isn't going anywhere — this t-shirt dress is perfect for staying in, running errands, and dressing up.
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This ombre pleated skirt from Ted Baker is a work of art. It features a spectrum of colors and gives off the most Illuminating starburst effect.
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Cop this super cute, super warm pom beanie from Napapijri. We love its turn-up brim and soft ribbed details.
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