A Palette of Trends: More Than A Decade of Pantone’s Colour of the Year

Pantone has been the global arbiter of colour trends for decades, and each year, the unveiling of the Colour of the Year is a moment eagerly anticipated by designers, artists, and trend enthusiasts alike. Let’s take a stroll down memory lane and explore the rich tapestry of Pantone’s past Colour of the Year selections.

2010: PANTONE 15-5519 Turquoise

Kicking off the decade with a splash of vibrant energy, Turquoise embodied tranquillity and escape. This shade spoke to a desire for serenity during a time of economic uncertainty, setting the tone for a decade that sought solace in colour.

2011: PANTONE 18-2120 Honeysuckle

In 2011, Honeysuckle burst onto the scene, injecting a sweet, uplifting note into our lives. This dynamic hue symbolized confidence and courage, encouraging us to face challenges with verve and vigor.

2012: PANTONE 17-1463 Tangerine Tango

The year 2012 embraced the warmth of Tangerine Tango, a colour that radiated vivacity and energy. This bold hue reflected a desire for playfulness and a burst of enthusiasm in our daily lives.

2013: PANTONE 17-5641 Emerald

In 2013, Emerald stole the spotlight, capturing the essence of luxury and elegance. This lush green hue symbolized growth, renewal, and a connection to nature in an increasingly digital world.

2014: PANTONE 18-3224 Radiant Orchid

Radiant Orchid graced the colour scene in 2014, bringing a touch of magic and mystery. This enchanting hue encouraged creativity and innovation, fostering a sense of wonder and exploration.

2015: PANTONE 18-1438 Marsala

Marsala, a robust and earthy wine red, became the focus in 2015. This sophisticated tone embodied warmth and richness, evoking a sense of grounding and stability.

2016: PANTONE 13-1520 Rose Quartz & PANTONE 15-3919 Serenity

Breaking tradition, 2016 introduced a harmonious duo: Rose Quartz and Serenity. This blending of gentle pink and tranquil blue aimed to challenge traditional perceptions of gender, promoting harmony and balance.

2017: PANTONE 15-0343 Greenery

In 2017, Greenery symbolized a fresh start and a return to nature. This zesty green hue encouraged individuals to take a deep breath and reconnect with the environment.

2018: PANTONE 18-3838 Ultra Violet

Ultra Violet, a cosmic shade of purple, took the stage in 2018. This colour spoke to the intrigue of the future, pushing boundaries and inspiring creativity and individuality.

2019: PANTONE 16-1546 Living Coral

Living Coral, a warm and vibrant hue, was 2019’s choice. This colour reflected optimism, joy, and a connection to the beauty of the natural world, particularly the endangered coral reefs.

2020: PANTONE 19-4052 Classic Blue

Classic Blue ushered in a sense of calm and dependability in 2020. This deep, timeless shade provided a reassuring backdrop during a year of uncertainty.

2021: PANTONE 17-5104 Ultimate Gray + PANTONE 13-0647 Illuminating

2021 embraced duality with Ultimate Gray and Illuminating. The marriage of resilient gray and uplifting yellow conveyed a message of strength and hope.

2022: PANTONE 17-3938 Very Peri

Introducing Very Peri in 2022, Pantone created a colour that defied existing categories. This unique shade symbolizes innovation, creativity, and a forward-looking perspective.

2023: PANTONE 18-1750 Viva Magenta

Viva Magenta, unveiled in 2023, brought vivacity and exuberance to the forefront. This bold magenta hue encouraged self-expression and a celebration of individuality.

2024: PANTONE 13-1023 Peach Fuzz

And here we are, embracing the warmth of Peach Fuzz in 2024. This velvety peach tone reflects a desire for nurturing, empathy, and compassion, emphasizing the importance of human connections in a world seeking harmony.

As we look back at this kaleidoscope of colours, each Pantone Colour of the Year tells a unique story, capturing the essence of its time and resonating with a global audience. From the soothing blues to the vibrant corals, these colours have left an indelible mark on design, fashion, and culture, showcasing the power of colour to inspire, comfort, and unite us all.