PANTONE Reveals Two Contrasting 2021 Colors Of The Year To Reflect Unity

Image via PANTONE

Befitting of this complex time, PANTONE has announced not one, but two hues for 2021.

Meet PANTONE Ultimate Gray and PANTONE Illuminating, two independent colors that have come together “to create an aspirational color pairing, conjoining deeper feelings of thoughtfulness with the optimistic promise of a sunshine filled day,” the color institute explained.

Ultimate Gray symbolizes a quiet reassurance and resilience, while the vibrant Illuminating Yellow represents sunshine and optimism for a better tomorrow.

Though nominating two colors might be deemed as hedging its bets, PANTONE wants people to see that the colors impact as a unified pair, showing the importance of solidarity in 2021.

“Two extremely independent colors highlight how different elements come together to express this message of strength and hopefulness,” Laurie Pressman, vice president of PANTONE, said. “It’s a combination that speaks to the resilience, the optimism and hope and positivity that we need, as we reset, renew, reimagine and reinvent.”

PANTONE’s Color of the Year normally reflects color trends in fashion, beauty, and design and home décor. However, with 2020’s coronavirus pandemic, the selected colors are meant to soothe, calm and uplift people’s moods.



PANTONE has reflected on possible interior applications for the two hues. “Ultimate Gray and Illuminating are a great combination to set the mood in any room in the home adding a dose of sunshine and positivity,” PANTONE said in a statement. “Painting a front door in bright yellow Illuminating conveys a warm and welcoming message when supported by solid and dependable Ultimate Gray in the exterior finishes.”


Image via PANTONE


Image via PANTONE


Image via PANTONE


Image via PANTONE



[via PANTONE, cover image via PANTONE]