Pantone colours of the year 2016, Rose Quartz

And the colour of the year for 2016 is… pale pink. Oh, and pale blue too. Confused? Well, for the first time colour specialist Pantone has chosen two colours to drive the look of 2016 and beyond.

To give them their official names, the colours are Rose Quartz and Serenity. And why were they chosen? “Weightless and airy, like the expanse of the blue sky above us, Serenity comforts with a calming effect, bringing feelings of respite and relaxation even in turbulent times. Rose Quartz is a persuasive yet gentle tone that conveys compassion and a sense of composure.”

Hmmm. In layman’s terms that means a softer take on colour for 2016.

Their status as key colours is derived, Pantone tells us, from consumers seeking “mindfulness and well-being as an antidote to modern day stresses, welcoming colours that psychologically fulfil our yearning for reassurance and security.”

Pantone colours of the year 2016

Joined together, Rose Quartz and Serenity are said to demonstrate “an inherent balance between a warmer embracing rose tone and the cooler tranquil blue, reflecting connection and wellness as well as a soothing sense of order and peace. The prevalent combination of Rose Quartz and Serenity also challenges traditional perceptions of colour association.”

We’re told it’s got something to do with a move towards “gender blur” too.

But hyperbole aside, and whatever the reasons are behind these two being named top colours of the year, the fact is that they will be. Pantone really knows its stuff when it comes to colour and its introduction of the hugely-successful colour of the year concept has made the chosen tone almost a self-fulfilling prophecy.

At least there’s a choice. If you get bored with one like I did this year (please don’t show me any more Marsala), there’s always an alternative… Thanks Pantone.

Pantone’s full 2016 palettes