The Pantone Palette 2021
“The Pantone Color Palette 2021 is here.” New York Fashion Week, September 10, 2020
“The Color Palette for 2021 has been announced.” London Fashion Week, September 17, 2020
Wait. A. Second.
I’ve followed the Pantone announcements closely for YEARS. And, the press releases above? Totally normal. But, what I wasn’t prepared for what how different the palettes would be.
That’s right. Normally, I focus on the NYFW announcement because that’s where the top 12 contenders live. And, London Fashion Week? The names might be different, and the hues slightly lighter or darker compared to NY, but, this year is so different. Let’s start with the fact that there are only TEN colors. TEN. That’s two less color stories than normal.
Moving on to the palettes. I felt compelled to add them both here. It’s a new year, folks. Out with the old, in with the new. (Although, are they really that new?! See last year’s lineup.)
I need to start mentally preparing for December, when they’ll probably announce the color of the year for 2021…a color that’s NOT EVEN on one of these lists. Because, apparently, if we’ve learned anything about 2020, it’s that the unthinkable is possible.
Ok, enough dramatics. Introducing the palettes!
Your Pantone Palettes for 2021…
New York Fashion Week Top Ten
London Fashion Week Top Ten
The identical colors on both lists: Marigold & Illuminating
Similar colors: Green Ash & Beach Glass; French Blue & Indigo Bunting
The rest, well, I’ll leave it up to you to make comparisons. Can you choose a favorite out of these 18 different shades? I’m kinda diggin’ the Cerulean (soft blue) from the NY list, and that Lava Falls from London is captivating.
If I had to guess right now which one will be crowned? I’m going with Rust.
But, I’m never right.
Inspiring Interiors
So, what we really want to know is–what can we do with these colors in our homes, right? Let’s delve into some inspiring interiors to see which colors can pair, which ones standout and how others showcase eye-catching design.
Earthy Tones for Cozy Vibes
My prediction of Rust isn’t lofty…I envision this shade filling homes, but maybe that’s because it’s fall, and we’re all in the mood for a PSL. If it’s not rust, it might be any of the other four choices from this organic color family: lava falls, burnt coral, orange ochre or marigold.
Earthy and soothing, it pairs well with blues and greens in contrast. It coordinates well with a range of browns, from light to dark. And, black would add a sophisticated feel. Warm colors add a sense of coziness to interiors, and earthy colors move us just beyond neutrals without going overboard.
Are there colors you love only during certain parts of the year?
Peaceful Pairings
There are some colors that exist as classic pairings, often they are from the “complementary” parts of the color wheel…otherwise known as opposites attract. Blue and orange are one example. The best part about these pairings is seeing them evolve over the years.
Here we are–a fresh take on a unique color combo. Probably considered a contemporary match, these two go so well together, they form an instant classic relationship.
What’s your favorite color pairing?
Kitchens In Color
One trend that’s not slowing down, even as we move forward with interior style, is bringing color into the kitchen. While white kitchens will always hold the top spot for timeless style, many people are looking to palettes for inspiration.
Cool vibes only. Soft greens are an ideal way to set a peaceful mood, so why not the kitchen? Green is one of those colors that is very personalized, ranging from a silver sage to an olive green. It symbolizes all things nature, from plant growth to tranquil sea life.
Do you love color in the kitchen?
Green with Envy
Speaking of green, there are four shades within the palettes this year. Two have a soft, subtle look, while the other two are strikingly bold. And, if you want to make a statement, there’s no better way. Choose a shade that’s unexpected, but charming.
Paired with black and white, this hits classic notes, especially with the other throwback elements of the space. Definitely a mid-century modern space, chic style fills this room. That black and white Hepburn steals the show.
What’s your favorite shade of green?
Accents Galore
One thing that can be said about the Pantone colors each year is that they give us a variety of accents to use in our interior styling. If you like playing with color, accents are definitely the way to go!
Optimism, happiness…if you’ve decorated with yellow, you know it adds an uplifting feeling to a space. Perfectly paired with black and white for a dramatic statement, yellow also has the ability to offer a soft, airy atmosphere with off white and gray.
Is there a color that instantly changes your mood?
Powerful Palette
If there’s anything you can do for yourself to improve your life, it’s surround yourself with what you love, what makes you happy and what empowers you. The Pantone palette 2021 certainly delivers some amazingly strong colors…
Pink is a longtime favorite in the design world. And, the idea of monochromatic colors, (using the same color, just in varying hues), is also a fundamental styling choice. Put the two together, and you have a dynamic result.
If you could decorate in just one color, but varying shades, which would you pick?
Which Is Your Favorite for Pantone Color of the Year?
Do you have an inkling of which color will come out on top this year? Like I mentioned, I’m never right, but I love guessing! And, more importantly, I love seeing inspiration for ways to use colors in interior design.
Do you have a prediction? I’d love to know! Drop me a comment here, or on Instagram, and we will see who knows their colors!
